Henley Canoe Hire invites paddlers to experience the River Thames via stand-up paddleboard, with routes tailored for quick outings or full-day adventures along one of England’s historic waterways. Discover riverside pub stops, wildlife hotspots, and iconic Henley views on your next waterborne journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour to full day
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed; suitable for beginners and families with children as young as 5 when accompanied by adults.
Wildlife
History
Henley-on-Thames has been a rowing hub since the early 19th century, hosting the famed Henley Royal Regatta since 1839.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to maintain water quality and protect the Thames’ natural habitats, encouraging responsible river use and wildlife preservation.
Henley Canoe Hire
Henley Canoe Hire invites paddlers to experience the River Thames via stand-up paddleboard, with routes tailored for quick outings or full-day adventures along one of England’s historic waterways. Discover riverside pub stops, wildlife hotspots, and iconic Henley views on your next waterborne journey.
Henley Canoe Hire is a riverside outfitter based in Henley-on-Thames, England, specialising in canoe, kayak, SUP and waterbike hire along the River Thames. The company offers a range of self-guided trips from short hourly hires to multi-day expeditions, including the iconic Henley to Marlow paddle and the extended Whole Thames Challenge.
Equipment options include canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and waterbikes, available for one-hour, half-day, full-day and multi-day bookings. Experienced staff provide route advice, safety briefings and maps, ensuring paddlers navigate locks, regatta courses and backwaters with confidence. Popular itineraries include the scenic Henley to Windsor two-day paddle covering approximately 24 miles with an overnight stop in Marlow, and shorter hire options suited to families, groups and first-time paddlers.
Henley Canoe Hire operates from Henley-on-Thames, offering easy river access near the Royal Regatta Course. The Whole Thames Challenge is a self-guided 6- or 8-day itinerary that follows the river from source to sea, with planning support and customizable logistics. Day hires and hourly rentals are ideal for wildlife watching, riverside pubs and relaxed cruising.
Booking is available online or by phone, with flexible durations and route suggestions. Safety equipment and basic instruction are provided with each hire. Henley Canoe Hire serves local residents and visitors seeking outdoor activity, scenic paddling and river-based exploration on one of England’s most famous rivers. Groups, families and solo paddlers can choose routes to match skill level, with staff advising on locks, currents and river etiquette so trips remain safe, manageable and enjoyable for all participants.
Tours Offered
7
From hourly hires to multi-day challenges
Flexible Durations
1 hour–8 days
Short hires to Whole Thames Challenge
River Access
Henley-on-Thames
Near the Royal Regatta Course
Suitable For
Families & Groups
All ages and skill levels welcome
Reserve canoe, kayak, SUP or waterbike hire — flexible times, safety briefings, and route guidance available
Wear a properly fitted buoyancy aid
Everyone on a paddleboard must wear a buoyancy aid for safety, especially children and inexperienced paddlers.
Pack water and sun protection
Bring a reusable water bottle and sunscreen even on cloudy days; time on open water can quickly dehydrate and sunburn you.
Watch for wind on upstream routes
Winds can pick up noticeably when paddling against the current toward Marsh Lock, so plan your timing accordingly.
Plan for a pub stop or picnic
Several riverside pubs offer a welcome break; alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy at designated safe spots along the route.
Buoyancy aid / life jacket
Mandatory safety gear ensuring flotation and safety on the water.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps valuables and electronics safe and dry during your paddle.
Layered clothing
Adjustable clothing helps manage cooler temperatures and changing weather conditions.
fall
Water bottle
Essential for staying hydrated, especially on longer or warmer paddling trips.
summer