Can beginners participate in this paddle?

Yes, if you are comfortable with basic paddling skills, beginners can enjoy this route with guidance.

Are life jackets provided?

Absolutely, life jackets are included and must be worn at all times.

Is there transportation for the boat back to the start?

Yes, rental companies typically offer return services or shuttle options.

What should I do if the weather turns bad?

It’s best to postpone or cancel your trip for safety and comfort.

Are dogs allowed on the paddle?

Pets are welcome if properly secured and comfortable on water.

How quiet is the route?

The route is generally peaceful, especially early in the day, with wildlife often more active during these times.

Water Activities: Henley Canoe Hire on the Thames | Boat Tour | Canoe

The stretch of the Thames between Henley and Marlow offers an unmatched scene of classic English river life, perfect for those seeking a day on the water that combines scenic beauty with a touch of history. Starting in Henley-on-Thames, famous for its rowing regatta, paddlers are greeted by gentle currents and charming riverside scenery. As you glide along the Royal Regatta Course, you’ll pass historic boat houses and lush banks dotted with willow trees, offering ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and tranquil moments. The route unfolds over 5 to 6 hours, providing an immersive experience of the river’s calm, reflective waters and occasional breezes that ripple across the surface. This journey is ideal for paddlers of moderate skill levels looking for a scenic, manageable paddle with plenty of sights to take in. The route’s broadening channel near Marlow reveals landscapes that feel distinctly remote, despite being close to London, with fields, old-world pubs, and historic bridges adding to its charm. Henry Canoe Hire makes it easy to access this adventure with boat rentals, briefings, and support, making it accessible whether you're a seasoned paddler or a curious first-timer.

The Thames between Henley and Marlow isn’t just a river—it’s a piece of living history, connecting villages with stories of boat racing, royal events, and English countryside traditions. Along your paddle, look out for kingfishers darting over the water, herons wading in the shallows, and perhaps even an elusive otter. This section of the Thames is not only a scenic wonder but also a vital wildlife corridor, a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance recreation with conservation. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an active day on the water, this paddle works beautifully as a short adventure or a leisurely day trip, offering a rare glimpse into rural England’s riverscape.

About Henley Canoe Hire

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.