Paddle 10 miles downstream from South Stoke to Reading with Thames Canoe Hire, passing historic locks, charming towns, and scenic river views. Enjoy a day blending history, nature, and outdoor adventure on England’s iconic Thames.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic paddling fitness and be comfortable sitting and paddling for a full day.
Wildlife
History
Brunel’s Gatehampton Railway Bridge marks a key Industrial Revolution landmark visible on the paddle, speaking to the region’s engineering heritage.
Conservation
Thames Canoe Hire promotes Leave No Trace paddling practices, encouraging visitors to protect the delicate riverside habitats and local wildlife.
Thames Canoe Hire
Paddle 10 miles downstream from South Stoke to Reading with Thames Canoe Hire, passing historic locks, charming towns, and scenic river views. Enjoy a day blending history, nature, and outdoor adventure on England’s iconic Thames.
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.
Book the drop-off service for one-way convenience
Thames Canoe Hire offers a drop-off at South Stoke so you can paddle downstream to Reading without backtracking.
Arrive early to receive a full safety briefing
Staff provide essentials on river navigation and lock usage before you start your trip, ensuring a safe experience.
Pack a waterproof bag for personal items
Keeping valuables dry is important on this multi-hour paddle with stops along the route.
Plan snack breaks at The Swan or Purley beach
These popular spots offer good rest points with food and scenic views.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Mandatory safety gear provided but best to bring your own if preferred.
Waterproof dry bag
Protects your phone, snacks, and extra layers from water exposure.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Shield yourself from prolonged sun exposure on open water sections.
summer
Layered clothing
Helps maintain comfort in variable weather conditions along the Thames.
spring|fall|winter