Discover a peaceful water escape on the Thames with Big Red & Grey Boat Hire. Perfect for relaxing cruises, wildlife viewing, and family outings in the picturesque Cotswolds.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
0.5–8 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required, suitable for all ages
Wildlife
History
The Thames has been a crucial waterway for centuries, shaping trade and settlement in the Cotswolds.
Conservation
The boat hire promotes eco-friendly travel, helping preserve the river’s pristine condition for future generations.
Cotswold Boat Hire
Discover a peaceful water escape on the Thames with Big Red & Grey Boat Hire. Perfect for relaxing cruises, wildlife viewing, and family outings in the picturesque Cotswolds.
Cotswold Boat Hire is a boat rental operator based in Buscot, England, offering a range of electric and motor cruisers for day hire, half-day outings and short breaks. Operating on the Upper Thames in the Cotswolds, the company provides easily bookable trips suitable for couples, families and small groups.
The fleet includes silent electric open boats and larger day cruisers with amenities such as canopies, chemical toilets, small kitchenettes and, on some boats, sleeping berths and showers. Popular options include the Tranquillo Cruiser and Tranquillo V Cruiser for relaxed cruising, the Raffles Cruiser and Megan Cruiser for comfortable day trips, and the Dawnwalker and electric motor boats for quieter wildlife watching. For longer stays, boats such as Jozel and Melody offer berths, kitchens and bathrooms for short breaks and multi-day holidays.
Bookings are available in flexible durations — from one- or two-hour hires to half-day, four-hour, full-day and multi-day rentals — accommodating up to eight people on many vessels. Dogs are welcome on select boats, and quiet electric power makes these trips well suited to picnics, riverside lunches and visits to local pubs along the Thames.
Cotswold Boat Hire emphasizes straightforward online booking and clear trip descriptions so visitors can choose the right boat for their plans. With a focus on peaceful cruising and practical amenities, the company provides accessible river experiences in the scenic Cotswold landscape. Booking details, pricing and availability are listed online with clear boat descriptions and flexible cancellation terms to suit seasonal plans and group enquiries.
Location
Buscot, England
On the Upper Thames in the Cotswolds
Max Capacity
Up to 8 people
Suitable for families and groups
Hire Durations
1 hr–multi-day
Flexible day hires and short breaks
Electric Fleet
Multiple electric boats
Quiet, environmentally friendly cruising
Secure a Tranquillo, Raffles or electric day boat for the date needed — flexible durations for families, groups and short breaks.
Bring sun protection
Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially during midday sun.
Check weather forecast
Ensure good weather conditions for a safe and enjoyable boat trip.
Arrive early
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your booking to get familiar with the boat.
Stay hydrated
Bring water and snacks for longer trips.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during sunny boat outings.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Shield yourself from sun exposure.
summer
Comfortable clothing and shoes
Wear suitable clothes for sitting on the water and changing weather.
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic moments along the river.