Paddle the River Thames at your own pace with Thames Canoe Hire’s week-long SUP rental in Reading. Enjoy flexible, self-guided adventures on one of England's most scenic waterways.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Flexible, up to 7 days
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness suitable for standing and paddling on calm water
Wildlife
History
The Thames in Reading has long been a hub for trade and industry, with historic mills still visible along the riverbanks.
Conservation
Thames Canoe Hire promotes low-impact paddling and supports local river clean-up initiatives to protect the ecosystem.
Thames Canoe Hire
Paddle the River Thames at your own pace with Thames Canoe Hire’s week-long SUP rental in Reading. Enjoy flexible, self-guided adventures on one of England's most scenic waterways.
Thames Canoe Hire is a river activity provider based in Reading, England, operating from The Boat Yard at Reading Marine Services. The business offers canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and motor boat hire for half-day, full-day, multi-day and seven-day trips on the River Thames.
Trips range from short half-day outings to single-day journeys like The Boat Yard to Henley and extended multi-day adventures such as Oxford to Reading (35 miles, 11 locks) and Maidenhead to Windsor (four-day, 32.5 miles, 12 locks). Hire options include two-day SUP hire, two-day canoe or kayak weekends without drop-off, one-way itineraries with collection, and seven-day packages with or without drop and collection.
All hires include safety briefings, necessary gear and practical guidance on locks, navigation and landing points. Multi-day routes reference typical overnight stops at riverside towns and B&Bs, and individual trip summaries note distances, durations and lock counts where applicable. Motor boat hire is available for groups of up to six people for shorter outings.
Thames Canoe Hire serves families, groups and individual paddlers seeking scenic river experiences through Caversham, Sonning, Mapledurham, Wargrave, Pangbourne, Henley, Windsor and other Thames towns. Customers should consult the business directly for current availability, seasonal river conditions and specific logistics including collection and drop-off arrangements.
Location
Reading, England
Based at The Boat Yard on the Thames
Boat Types
Canoes, Kayaks, SUPs, Motorboats
Multiple craft for all skill levels
Group Capacity
Motor boats up to 6
Family and group friendly options
Trip Range
Half-day to seven-day
Short hires to multi-day adventures
Book canoes, kayaks, SUPs or motor boats — check availability for Henley, Windsor, Oxford and multi-day routes.
Start Early for Calm Waters
River winds are lightest in the morning, providing smoother conditions for SUP paddling.
Wear a Personal Flotation Device
Safety first—always wear a life jacket when on the water, even if you’re an experienced paddler.
Check the Weather Forecast
River conditions can change with the weather; avoid paddling during heavy rain or strong wind events.
Respect Other River Users
Share the water responsibly with rowers, anglers, and motor boats along this busy stretch.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Vital for safety on the water throughout the year.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps your valuables safe and dry during paddles.
Quick-drying clothing
Ensures comfort when paddling under warm conditions.
summer
Layered thermal wear
Keeps you warm during cooler months on the river.
fall|winter|spring