Paddle a tranquil stretch of the River Thames on a 3-4 hour canoe trip from Castle Eaton to Lechlade. Experience quiet bends, overhanging trees, and the rural charm of this unique waterway with Cotswold Canoe Hire Ltd.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to paddle continuously and navigate bends and mild obstacles.
Wildlife
History
Lechlade is one of the traditional headwaters of the Thames, historically serving as a key point for river navigation and trade in the region.
Conservation
Cotswold Canoe Hire Ltd promotes Leave No Trace principles to maintain the river’s ecological health and protect its diverse wildlife.
Cotswold Canoe Hire Ltd
Paddle a tranquil stretch of the River Thames on a 3-4 hour canoe trip from Castle Eaton to Lechlade. Experience quiet bends, overhanging trees, and the rural charm of this unique waterway with Cotswold Canoe Hire Ltd.
Cotswold Canoe Hire Ltd operates from Lechlade-On-Thames, England and specialises in self-led river hire and short Thames trips. The company offers a fleet of open Canadian canoes, single kayaks, paddleboards, one-hour rowing boats and swan and flamingo pedalos. Hires are available as one-hour sessions, half-day and full-day options, as well as a Summer Evenings Pay & Play session from 6pm to 8pm with discounted rates.
Customers can choose from multiple routes and experiences. The Thames River Trip from Lechlade to Radcot takes three to four hours and finishes at Ye Olde Swan Inn. The Castle Eaton to Lechlade route passes narrow bends and overhanging trees for a more adventurous paddle. Open Canadian Canoe and kayak hires allow paddlers to head upstream, picnic riverside and return aided by the gentle current, often finishing at The Riverside Inn.
The Swan & Flamingo Pedalo option offers family-friendly, self-launch sessions and explicitly allows well‑behaved dogs. The rowing boat hire is commonly booked for one-hour leisure outings suited to couples or families. Trips highlight local wildlife including kingfishers and provide opportunities for relaxed picnics.
Cotswold Canoe Hire Ltd presents a straightforward range of hire types and river trips from Lechlade-On-Thames, suitable for families, couples and outdoor adventurers. Booking details, session availability and exact hire terms are provided by the business directly and can be checked on The Adventure Collective listing or the company’s booking channels. Booking hours, equipment details and specific launch locations are available directly from the business or The Adventure Collective listing online.
Location
Lechlade-On-Thames, England
Based on the River Thames
Boat Types
Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, pedalos, rowboats
Selection for varied river outings
Session Lengths
1 hour to full day
Flexible hire durations
Trips Offered
7 experiences
Routes and family options available
Book a canoe, kayak, pedalo or rowing boat hire in Lechlade-On-Thames today — choose from one-hour, half-day, full-day and evening Pay & Play sessions.
Prepare for Low-Hanging Branches
Expect narrow sections with tree branches dipping over the water—stay alert to avoid obstacles.
Bring Water and Snacks
The stretch is quite remote; pack sufficient hydration and fuel for your journey on the river.
Arrive on Time for Briefing
Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you receive a full safety briefing and equipment fitting without rush.
Wear Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, UV exposure can be high—use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps belongings dry during the paddle, essential on unpredictable UK waters.
Layered Clothing
Helps adjust to changing temperatures and weather conditions along the river.
fall
Paddle Gloves
Protect hands from blisters during longer paddling stretches in cool temperatures.
spring
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Provided by the outfitter but crucial for safety on flowing river conditions.