thames travel open day

Skip To Main Content

Follow Us...

• Guided Town Walking Tours
• Boat hire on the River Thames
• Boating Information
• Owning a Boat
• Boat Builders & Boatyards on the River Thames
• Services for Boat Owners and Water Sports

Marinas and Services

• Private Charters
• Stand up Paddle Boarding
• Free Fishing
• Lock and Weir Fishing
• Anglers with disabilities
• Henley - Walkers are welcome
• Walking Tours
• Water Walks and Winter Warmers
• Walks for All
• Walking Breaks
• Walking Rail Trails
• Thames Valley Museums
• Special Offers
• Best Spa Breaks at Stunning River Thames Hotels
• Afternoon Tea
• Pubs & Inns
• Brakspear Pubs
• Best Outdoor Dining
• Food & Drink Experiences along the Thames
• Active Experiences On & Around the River Thames
• Bed and Breakfast
• Self Catering
• Camping and Caravans
• Youth Hostels
• Boating Holidays
• Staycations/holidays on the River Thames
• Wallingford
• Spring Highlights
• Book a Spring/Summer Break in Reading
• Spring & Summer breaks/Staycations in Henley
• Staycations/holidays in and around Windsor
• Book a Spring/Summer Break in Marlow
• Escape The Everyday On the Water
• Cheap Days Out
• Family Fun Events
• Family Getaways
• Messing About on the River
• Family Activity Breaks
• Explore the Thames Before You Go
• Weekend Breaks
• Romantic Rooms With A View
• Autumn & Winter Breaks on the River Thames
• Easter Holidays 2024
• The Family's River
• The Couple's River
• The Heritage River
• Thames Path Walks to Enjoy
• Just The Two of Us
• Five of the best on the River Thames
• Luxury & Unique Experiences
• Picnic & BBQ locations
• Corporate Team Building Ideas
• Film & TV Connections
• Thames Evening Experiences
• Explore Thames Valley with Great Western Railway
• Henley – Town of Festivals
• Thames Path National Trail celebrates 20 Years
• Royal Swan Upping
• Museum Events

Henley Literary Festival

• Water based activities
• What’s on this Christmas along the River Thames
• Travel Trade
• Thames Travel Trade Update
• Coach & Tour Operators
• Special Events

Itineraries

• Conference Venues
• Wedding Venues
• Map Of The River Thames
• Information For Boaters
• Information on toilets and water points
• River Thames Locks
• River Thames Conditions, Closures and Restrictions
• How to get to each town
• British Marine

Thames Path National Trail

• Thames Estuary Partnership
• BBO Wildlife Trust
• Photography of the River Thames
• Publications
• Great West Way
• Visit Thames Marketing Partnership
• Coronavirus Information for Visit Thames Partners
• Useful Contacts

You are here: Things to Do > Boating on the River Thames > Boat trips

Boat trips on the River Thames

The River Thames offers so much history along its banks. To truly enjoy sightseeing on the River Thames then sit back and let someone else take the helm! Sit and relax as beautiful scenery glides by on a River Thames boat trip or cruise and enjoy the commentary on the sights along the river!

Passenger Boat Trips

Passenger boat operators offer a variety including day trips, round trips, stopping or one-way services. As well as the scheduled services, you might enjoy a themed river cruise. Choose from a spot of sightseeing with wildlife watching or party nights and seasonal day trips, to name but a few!

The main cruising season for the non-tidal Thames (outside of London) is April-September but each operator may have sailings and cruises outside of this time including special events so please check availability with the business.

Here's some of the key boat operators along the Thames:

Oxford: Salters Steamers

Reading: Thames Rivercruise

Henley: Hobbs of Henley

Windsor, Maidenhead and Runnymede: French Brothers

London to Greenwich: City Cruises

Themed Public Cruises

There are so many choices for boat trips on the Thames. Choose from jazz cruises, wildlife cruises, children's cruises and more. See the list below to see what's available.

A selection of Boat Trips on the Thames currently available at various locations including: 

Salters Steamers , boat trips from Oxford , Alice in Wonderland Cruise and Lunchtime Picnic Cruise.

Thames Rivercruise , Reading    is offering 45/60/90 minute cruises and Wednesday and Saturday Evening Sundowner Fizz Cruises.

• Thames Experience 45 Minute Round Trip Cruise  - Take a look at the riverside homes, countryside and the Thames as it passes through Reading with refreshments on board as you watch the wildlife pass as the boat glides along the Thames.
• Thames Experience 60 Minute Round Trip Cruise – Ideal for families, it leaves Caversham behind and heads to the countryside reaching two islands – Apletree Eyot and Poplar Island.
• Thames Explorer 90 Minute Round Trip Cruise -  Cruise from Caversham Pier through twists and turns to Mapledurham Lock and Weir. This is the river as it should be, tranquil and stunning in Wind in the Willows Country.

All above: weekends from 1 April to 29 October, daily Easter Holiday, May Half Term and School Summer Holiday 24 Jul-1 Sep (no cruises 21-29 Aug). 

• Other cruises: Shiplake or Goring Cream Tea Cruise, Goring Circular Cruise, Afternoon Tea, Sunday Lunch or Saturday Sundowner Cruises.

Hobbs of Henley   operates 1 and 2 hour cruises from Henley and themed ticketed cruises.

• Jazz & Afternoon Tea Cruise  (4 Aug 24) – Enjoy the sounds of a traditional jazz band on a three hour cruise whilst enjoying a delicious English Afternoon Tea.
• Vintage Themed Afternoon Tea Cruise  (12 May, 21 Jul, 25 Aug, 15 Sep) - Cruise the Thames on one of the most spectacular vessels, The New Orleans and sample the most incredible afternoon tea whilst doing so!
• Midsomer Murders Cruise with Afternoon Tea  (1 May and 5 Jun 2-4pm) - Aboard The Waterman, these are hosted by a specialist guide who’s knowledge on the TV sensation is superb and enjoy a delicious afternnon tea. Discover many murderous locations along the Thames and which episodes they featured in, the perfect cruise for any fans of this show!
• Henley Regatta River Cruise  (4 July, 11am - 5pm) - Sail the regatta course on-board Hibernia from 11am – 5pm, enjoying a welcome glass of Pimms, canapés, a buffet lunch and afternoon tea. 
• Atul Kochhar’s Henley Festival Cruise  (14 Jul, 7 - 10.45pm) - Aboard ‘The New Orleans’ enjoy the finest Indian cuisine provided by Atul Kochhar’s team. One of the first British-based Indian chefs to receive a Michelin star. Cruising up and down the Henley stretch of the Thames, enjoy the atmosphere of the Henley Festival from the river. The fireworks can be viewed from the open upper deck which will give you the most perfect view point for them!
• Eighties Silent Disco during the Rewind Festival (16 Aug 7-11pm) - Aboard The New Orleans for this fun Eighties night! Put your headphones on and hit our dance floor as you listen to some fab Eighties tunes! This event takes place during Henley’s Rewind Festival so you will be able to take in the sounds and atmosphere from our upper deck during this cruise. The price also includes a cocktail (or mocktail) on arrival and a buffet meal.
• Purdy's Gin and Jazz Cruise  (23 Aug, 7.30 - 10.30pm) – Aboard The New Orleans, is the incredible singer/songwriter Purdy and her band who will be providing sultry Jazz under the stars. Ticket includes a Mr Hobbs G&T on arrival and a fabulous buffet. 
• A Ghoulish Halloween Murder Mystery Cruise (31 Oct, 7-10.30pm) - Step aboard The New Orleans for a scary night to remember, our special Halloween murder mystery cruise for everyone who likes dinner with a fright! Partnering with Little Chico Productions.
• Christmas cruises - Christmas Lunch and Christmas Party Night cruises.
• Santa Cruises - The brilliant Bertie Slippers will have everyone roaring with laughter and he will be adding some magic, balloons and puppets to the children’s entertainment and Santa will be in his grotto bearing gifts for all the children!  

French Brothers   is operating 40 mins and 2 hour cruises from Windsor, Runnymede to Windsor and Runnymed hop-on-hop-off service. 

• Windsor 2-hour round trip – Leaving Windsor Promenade, passengers can enjoy excellent views of Windsor Castle and Eton College. After passing Windsor Racecourse, the boat passes through Boveney Lock and passes Sutherland Grange, The Willows and Bray Film Studios.
• Victorian Paddle Steamer Runnymede hop-on hop-off trip – Daily 29 Mar -18 Apr, 25 May-28 Sep.  Weekends only 15 Apr - 24 May, 9-29 Sep. Board the 'Lucy Fisher', a replica of a Victorian paddle steamer at the Runnymede Boathouse and cruise upstream to the Bells of Ouzeley, which is featured in Jerome K. Jerome's "Three Men in a Boat". Pass the Memorials, and onto the Runnymede Pleasure Grounds.
• Windsor 40 min Round Trip – Daily to 27 Oct, Weekends 28 Oct - 22 Dec. This short cruise goes upstream to Boveney Lock & returns with fantastic views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House, Windsor Racecourse & the Brocas Meadows.
• Runnymede to Windsor Service – Daily 29 Mar - 29 Sep. Leaving from the Runnymede Boathouse, the boat will cruise upstream through Old Windsor Lock and continues through the pretty villages of Old Windsor and Datchet. Travelling through the grounds of Windsor Castle, the boat then passes through Romney Lock and arrives in Windsor.
• Royal Steamboat Voyage - 19 May, 16 Jun, 22 SeptA nostalgic cruise of discovery through the Queen's back garden on a  beautiful  and  genuine  Victorian steam launch. Departing from Runnymede in the morning you will pass through Old Windsor Lock and the pretty village of Datchet. Salute our Monarch's flag as we steam along past the grounds of Windsor Castle. In the afternoon the boat returns to Runnymede. Enjoy either a hearty lunch or afternoon tea.

City Cruises  in London offers sightseeing cruises, dining cruises and Showboat evening cruises. 

• Sightseeing cruises - depart daily every 30 to 40 minutes from piers at Westminster, London Eye, Tower and to Greenwich.
• 24h Hop-On Hop-Off River Pass
• Thames Lunch Cruise – Tues-Sun. Enjoy a delicious two course lunch on a relaxed mini voyage through the heart of London: 2-course meal, 1 hour 45 minutes river Cruise, Commentary, Glass of Moët & Chandon (Champagne Package)
• Afternoon Tea Cruise – Thu-Sun.  See the best views in London while you tuck into tea, scones and all the trimmings of a traditional afternoon tea on the Thames.
• London Dinner Cruise – Wine, dine and dance on this great dinner cruise on the Thames. See spectacular views of London’s iconic sights including the magnificent London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge and the recently lit bridges as part of the Illuminated River project, whilst enjoying show songs and top hits. Includes: A three-hour cruise, Four-course meal, Welcome drink, Dancing till late, Half bottle of wine per guest.
• London’s Evening Cruise – See great views of London's riverside landmarks and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a trip through the heart of central London – on a boat. You can choose between being on the open-air upstairs deck or in the saloon, which has big windows. Includes: Sparkling wine or soft drink, Selection of cold canapés served throughout the evening, Background music, 2 hour river Cruise
• London’s Jazz Cruise on the Thames – Fridays. Enjoy jazz and dinner on the Thames on a journey up and down the river, with great views of landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and more. Includes: 3 hour cruise with our quintet ChiJazz playing jazz, Glass of sparkling wine, 3-course meal with choice of dishes, Cash bar offering Champagne, Pimm's, wines and beers.
• Halloween Murder Mystery Cruise  
• Fireworks Night Cruises  
• Christmas - Thames Christmas Dinner Party , Thames Christmas Lunch Party , Christmas Day Sightseeing ,  Christmas Day Lunch Cruise
• New Year - New Year's Eve Gala Dinner , New Year's Eve Stargazer Cruise , 

Search Places To Stay

Search things to do, search what's on, search food & drink.

• Escape The Everyday
• Accessibility Statement
• Data Protection Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Groups/Venues

© Visit Thames 2024. All Rights Reserved

Don't Miss

Traditional Boat Festival

Henley Handmade Fair

Regatta for Disabled

Hobbs of Henley

Henley Canoe Hire

The Runnymede on Thames

Compleat Angler Hotel

Beetle and Wedge

The Chilterns

Vintage Days Out

Salter Steamers

Hambleden Lock on the River Thames

British Marine on the River Thames

French Brothers

The Oakley Court

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

10 top places to visit along the Thames

By Phoebe Frangoul

Take us to the river

While Londoners often take the River Thames for granted, many visitors only see it from the Southbank, a boat tour and then from the plane window on their way out of the city again. And yet the mighty waterway is 346km, and today boasts hundreds of attractions on its banks, from the antique to the all-new, from east London to west. So, to help celebrate the longest river in England, here are our top 10 spots to visit alongside and over it.

BEST FOR: Adrenaline junkies

If you have a good head for heights, pull on some climbing boots, a helmet and a harness and climb the O2, otherwise known as the Dome. London's former white elephant has been reborn as a world-class music venue, which has seen the likes of Prince and Beyoncé play to sell-out crowds, and is also now home to London's branch of hipster New York cocktail bar, Brooklyn Bowl (we recommend the Wythe Avenue: bourbon with raspberry liqueur, fresh raspberries and cranberry juice). However, it's the tours of the bouncy white roof that are truly ingenious - and unmissable. Climb by daylight to take in the full beauty of the London skyline and make out landmarks up to 15 miles away, or opt for a sunset or twilight ascent for breathtaking views of the city lights. £26, Peninsula Square, London SE10 (+4420 8463 2000; www.theo2.co.uk )

BEST FOR: History buffs

The Cutty Sark recently underwent an astonishing refurbishment after a devastating fire. Now the fastest and last remaining tea clipper of its kind sits like a glowing, golden bird on land, illuminated from beneath by glass walkways. Children will adore the experience of walking underneath the 963-ton vessel, as well as climbing aboard to find out what life was like on a 19th-century sailing ship. The events programme features live music and educational activities, making this an excellent all-weather family day out. Tip: the ship's location, on a deep curve of the Thames, is particularly thrilling to approach by boat. Adults £13.50, children aged 5-15 £7, King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 (+4420 8858 4422; www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark )

BEST FOR: Thirsty bookworms

The Thames is dotted with many venerable drinking establishments, but one of the most legendary is The Grapes at Limehouse, which just so happens to have Gandalf as its landlord. Well, not exactly, but Sir Ian McKellan is the proprietor of this East End boozer, that proudly traces its lineage back to 1583. Enjoy a pie and a pint in the snug bar where Charles Dickens used to drink (he namechecked The Grapes in Our Mutual Friend ) or opt for the full white-linen-and-crystal experience in the elegant dining room upstairs, while watching the lights of Canary Wharf glitter on the water outside. 76 Narrow Street, Limehouse, London, E14 (+4420 7987 4396; www.thegrapes.co.uk )

BEST FOR: Fans of style and substance

Downriver from London Bridge, past the Mayor's Building and under Tower Bridge, you'll find yourself on a comparatively quiet stretch of water overlooked by a cool, modernist building (a banana warehouse in a previous life): this is home to the Design Museum. The temple to innovation has a permanent collection devoted to all aspects of design, from fashion to furniture, plus a programme of temporary exhibitions. The Blueprint restaurant on the first floor, the ground-floor café and the Riverside Garden all provide excellent views of the water, and there's a fantastic shop that stocks everything from Anglepoise lamps to Miffy books. Entry adults £8.80, students £6.60, children under 16 £4.40, those under 6 go free, 28 Shad Thames, London SE1 (+4420 7403 6933; www.designmuseum.org )

BEST FOR: Curious explorers

Tower Bridge has made cameo appearances in countless films and television shows. However, to really understand this prime example of Victorian engineering, join a tour up the vertiginous walkways that reach 42m above the Thames. You'll learn about the history of the bridge and its ingenious bascule design, a layout that allows tall ships to pass beneath. Visit the interactive displays in the Victorian Engine Rooms to bring the story of this iconic structure to life. And yes, a red double-decker bus has made the terrifying leap from one side of the open bridge to the other. Adults £9.00, concessions £6.30, children £3.90, Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP (+4420 7403 3761; www.towerbridge.org.uk )

BEST FOR: Food with a view

The sixth-floor restaurant at Tate Modern has one of the most spectacular views of any dining room in London, if not the world, with the dome of St Paul's peering grandly through the wall of glass that spans one side of the airy space. Furthermore, the place is unpretentious and buzzy: babies are as welcome as business folk. If you really want to impress a date, take them to the bar for a glass of wine before dinner and watch the river churn below, while the sun sets behind that iconic skyline. Bankside, London SE1 (+4420 7887 8888; www.tate.org.uk )

BEST FOR: Aspiring Don Drapers

Londoners are spoiled when it comes to cocktail bars, but one of the very best is the Royal Festival Hall's Skylon. This Modernist masterpiece has double-height windows that command spectacular views of the river, soaring concrete columns and mid-century furniture that befits its 1951 'Festival of Britain' origins. Watch the mixologists at work from a seat at the bar or enjoy the view of the Southbank crowds from the riverside lounge. There's an extensive wine list but the cocktails are the real draw: the menu covers the classics as well as seasonal specialities. Royal Festival Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 (+4420 7654 7800; www.skylon-restaurant.co.uk )

Paul Richardson

CNT Editors

Arati Menon

Olivia Morelli

BEST FOR: Floating above the city

Yes, many cities across the globe have their own souped-up ferris wheels but none come close to the London Eye (literally, at 135m it's the tallest in the world). Both an architectural masterpiece and an innovative feat of engineering, it's fast become a well-loved part of the landscape since its completion in 2000, thanks to its elegant design. With its unbeatable location on a curve of the river that takes in everything from Westminster to Windsor Castle, the Eye feels like a fast-track to the heart of the capital and the surrounding countryside. Adults and children over 4 £29.50, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 (+44 871 781 3000; www.londoneye.com )

BEST FOR: Green-fingered folk

The Garden Museum is one of those treasures that feels like a delightful surprise to even the most jaded Londoner. Sat quietly off the bustling Lambeth Palace Road, the museum's collection of ancient implements, paintings and exhibitions on gardeners past and present is housed in the deconsecrated parish church of St-Mary-at-Lambeth. Outside, a 17th-century-style knot garden pays tribute to John Tradescants the Elder and Younger - great plant hunters whose tombs inspired the museum's creation and whose discoveries fill its flowerbeds. The garden café serves lunch and cakes made with ingredients grown within this secret urban oasis. £7.50 adults, 5 Lambeth Palace Rd, London SE1 (+4420 7401 8865; www.gardenmuseum.org.uk )

BEST FOR: River walkers

Upriver, at Richmond, life on the Thames has a distinctly tranquil, laid-back flavour, as evidenced by the White Cross pub. At high tide the drinking spot is marooned on its own island, so you can bob up in your boat, pull on the wellies that have been thoughtfully provided and enter from the water. There's been a watering hole (sorry) on this spot ever since 1748, and everything from the roaring fire to the dog-friendly philosophy renders this one of those pubs where you feel like a local, even if you've come from further than around the bend in the river. Riverside, Richmond, Surrey TW9 (+4420 8940 6844; www.thewhitecrossrichmond.com )

• English English Español; Castellano français Deutsch Italiano Português

• Return to main page
• Manage my booking

Our 2-day hop-on hop-off Thames River Sightseeing ticket is the best way to explore London from the water – with unlimited river travel over two consecutive days to enjoy at your own pace. With an open top deck, comfortable bottom deck, fully licensed bar, and toilets on board, Thames River Sightseeing offers the most enjoyable and comfortable boats on the river. During your time on the waves, take in uninterrupted views over riverside landmarks including Westminster Palace, the London Eye, the National Theatre, the Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, HMS Belfast, The Shard, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf. You’ll also find a dazzling range of further attractions within easy reach on foot. We’ve been cruising along the Thames for over half a century now, and our expert skippers and crew look forward to welcoming you on board. Our city knowledge, entertaining tales, and local’s perspective will help turn your cruises into special memories of your time in London.

Parents with youngsters in tow can enjoy helpful savings with our discounted 2-day Family River Pass for 2 adults and up to 3 children.

The cruise timings vary according to the season, and you’ll find our schedule on our website. Always confirm with ticket office or crew as to the time of the last boat.

The journey time from Westminster Pier out to Greenwich Pier is 1 hour.

Yes, toilet facilities are available on all our vessels.

Yes, we have fully-licensed bars selling a wide range of tasty snacks and drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic.

The pass is valid only within 2 consecutive days.

+44 20 3778 0700 [email protected]

Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment. London, SW1A 2JH

Copyright © Thames River Sightseeing 2024

• London Attractions
• Thames River Cruises

Lunch Cruises

• Plan Your Visit
• London Theatre Tickets

Tower of London

• Harry Potter London Tours
• Heathrow Airport transfers
• Madame Tussauds London
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium
• Up At The O2 Climb
• Buckingham Palace
• London To Stonehenge Tours
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• London To Windsor Castle Tours
• Tower Bridge
• National Express London
• Westminster Abbey
• Kew Gardens
• Hampton Court Palace
• Downton Abbey
• Frameless London
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Travel Guide
• Things to do
• Trip Planner
• Where to Eat
• Festivals and Events
• Travel Tips

Learn All About Planning Your Visit To The Thames River Cruise

Thames river cruises | visitor information at a glance.

Thames River Cruise Operating Hours: Thames River cruises operate at different times depending on the type of cruise. Sightseeing cruises typically run during the day, while lunch and dinner cruises have specific meal times. Some cruises, like hop-on-hop-off tours, may offer more flexibility in timing.

Location of Thames River: The Thames River flows through the heart of London, England, providing a unique perspective of the city's landmarks and attractions.

Top Thames River Cruise Options:

• Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Sightseeing Cruise
• Westminster to Tower Bridge Quay Thames Cruise
• Uber Boat by Thames Clippers Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
• Evening Cruise on River Thames
• Thames River Lunch Cruise
• Thames Afternoon Tea Cruise

Thames River Cruise timings

Sightseeing Cruises

Opening Hours: 10am - 10pm

Duration : 1-2 Hours

Must Know: 

These cruises are designed for tourists and offer a leisurely journey along the Thames, providing panoramic views of London's famous landmarks. The cruises often pass by attractions such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the London Eye and St. Paul's Cathedral. Many boats have open-air decks for better visibility and photo opportunities.

Hop-on Hop-off Cruises

Opening Hours: 10 AM - 5 PM (depending on the season) 

Duration : 2 to 2.5 hours

The main advantage of hop-on hop-off cruises is the flexibility they offer, allowing passengers to disembark and explore at their own pace. The duration of your experience will depend on how long you choose to spend at each stop before rejoining the cruise to continue your journey.

Opening Hours: 12 PM - 2 PM 

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Lunch cruises often include a pre-set menu or buffet-style meal served on board. The exact offerings and dining experience can vary, ranging from traditional British cuisine to international flavors. Additionally, many lunch cruises provide live entertainment or music to enhance the overall experience.

Evening Cruises

Opening Hours: 7 PM - 9 PM

Duration : 2 to 3  hours

Most dinner cruises provide ample time to enjoy your meal, take in the illuminated cityscape, and partake in the onboard entertainment. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. 

What is the best time to go on a Thames River Cruise?

The best time to go on a Thames River cruise depends on personal preference and the experience you seek.

• Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures, ranging from around 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F). Generally less crowded compared to the summer months.
• Summer (June to August): Warmer temperatures, ranging from around 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F). Vibrant atmosphere and outdoor events taking place. More crowded compared to other seasons, especially in popular tourist areas.
• Autumn (September to November): Mild temperatures, ranging from around 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64°F). Generally less crowded compared to the summer months.
• Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures, ranging from around 2°C (36°F) to 8°C (46°F). Festive atmosphere, with lights and decorations but shorter daylight hours. Generally less crowded compared to the summer months.

Know before you board a Thames River Cruise

Westminster Pier

Westminster Pier: Located near the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Pier is a popular boarding point for Thames River cruises. It provides convenient access to major landmarks and attractions in central London.

Address: Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2JH

• By Bus: Bus Route 453, 474
• By Tube: District, Jubilee

Greenwich Pier

Greenwich Pier: Located in Greenwich, this boarding point is ideal for passengers interested in visiting the historic Greenwich attractions such as the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum, and the Royal Observatory.

Address: Greenwich Pier, King William Walk, London, SE10 9HT

• By Bus: Bus Route 473, 474
• By Tube: Jubilee

Tower Pier (EC3N 4DT)

Tower Pier serves as a gateway to London's past, with the historic Tower of London nearby, along with the famous Tower Bridge.

Address : Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St, London EC3N 4DT.

Nearest Tube: Tower Hill underground station; London Fenchurch Street Station

• Indoor and Outdoor Seating: Cruises often provide both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic views from the comfort of their preferred location.
• Panoramic Windows: Many cruise vessels have large panoramic windows, providing excellent views of the River Thames and its surroundings.
• Open Decks: Outdoor decks are available on most cruises, allowing passengers to enjoy the fresh air and unobstructed views while cruising along the river.
• Live Commentary: Informative and entertaining live commentary is sometimes provided during the cruise, giving passengers interesting insights into the landmarks, history, and notable sights along the Thames.
• Restrooms: Cruises generally have restroom facilities available for passengers' convenience.
• Entertainment and Music : Some cruises may provide onboard entertainment, such as live music, DJs, or themed events, adding to the festive atmosphere during the cruise.

• Scenic Views: It provides a unique perspective and can be educational as well.
• Live Commentary : Many Thames River cruises offer live commentary during the tour, providing interesting facts and stories about the landmarks and history of London..
• Entertainment and Activities: Some Thames River cruises offer special cruises designed for families with kids. 
• Safety: Ensure the safety of your children during the cruise by following any safety instructions provided by the cruise operator. Keep an eye on younger children and make them aware of the rules and boundaries onboard.

• Follow Instructions: Listen to and follow the instructions given by the cruise staff or crew members. They are there to assist you and ensure everyone's safety.
• Safety Equipment: Familiarize yourself with the location of safety equipment on board, such as life jackets or flotation devices
• Stay in Designated Areas: Respect any designated areas or restricted zones on the boat. Some areas may be off-limits for safety or operational reasons.
• Children's Supervision: Keep a close watch on your children and ensure they are supervised at all times during the cruise.
•   Smoking Policy: Most Thames River cruises have a no-smoking policy indoors, including enclosed areas or cabins. 
• Littering and Cleanliness: Help maintain the cleanliness of the boat by disposing of any waste or trash in designated bins.

• Comfortable Clothing: Opt for comfortable attire that allows freedom of movement. 
• Layered Clothing: London weather can be changeable, so it's advisable to dress in layers. This way, you can easily adjust your clothing to accommodate temperature changes throughout the cruise. 
• Weather Protection: Be prepared for potential rain or wind, especially in the spring and autumn months. 
• Special Occasions : If you're taking a dinner or special event cruise, you may want to dress slightly more formal. 
• Sun Protection: If you're taking a daytime cruise, especially during the summer, it's important to protect yourself from the sun. 
• Accessories: Consider bringing a small bag or backpack to carry essentials such as sunscreen, a water bottle, and a camera. Ensure it's lightweight and easy to carry.
• Jubilee Market: This large indoor market offers a variety of stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts, and food.
• South Bank Book Market: Browse through a massive selection of new, used, and antiquarian books at this market.
• The London Eye Gift Shop: Pick up a unique souvenir from your visit to the iconic London Eye.
• The Ivy Victoria : This upscale restaurant offers classic British cuisine with a modern twist.
• Coppa at Cathedral Wharf : Enjoy delicious Italian food with stunning views of the River Thames.
• Wahaca : Sample authentic Mexican street food at this lively restaurant.

Several hotels are located near Westminster Bridge Pier, offering a range of options to suit your budget and preferences. Here are a few:

• The Royal Horseguards Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located right next to the Thames and offers stunning views of the London Eye and Houses of Parliament.
• Sea Containers London: This trendy hotel is housed in a converted shipping container complex and offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.
• St. Ermin's Hotel: This historic hotel is located near St. James's Park and offers a more traditional London experience.

Top landmarks near the Thames river bank

Houses of parliament and big ben.

Home to the British Parliament, this neo-gothic palace includes the Elizabeth Tower, more commonly known as Big Ben, the famous clock tower.

This giant Ferris wheel offers stunning panoramic views of the city.

A historic castle on the north bank of the Thames, notorious for its role as a prison and execution site.

HMS Belfast

This decommissioned Royal Navy cruiser is now a museum ship docked on the River Thames.

Shakespeare's Globe

A reconstruction of the Elizabethan open-air theater where Shakespeare's plays were performed.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Thames River Cruises

A Thames River cruise typically includes scenic views, live commentary, and the opportunity to enjoy iconic landmarks along the river.

The best time to take a Thames River cruise is during the spring or summer months when the weather is pleasant and the daylight hours are longer.

They generally start in the morning around 10:00 AM and operate until late afternoon or early evening, with the last cruises departing around 6:00 PM approximately.

Seasickness is rare on Thames River cruises due to the calm waters, but individuals prone to motion sickness should take necessary precautions.

Pets are generally not allowed on Thames River cruises, except for registered assistance animals, but this can vary.

Yes, you can take a Thames River cruise with a group

Yes, you can take a Thames River cruise with your kids. It is a family-friendly activity that children can enjoy, offering scenic views, educational commentary, and often special activities for kids on board.

It is recommended to contact the specific cruise operator beforehand to inquire about their accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated seating areas.

Facilities on a Thames River cruise may include indoor and outdoor seating areas, onboard cafes or bars, restrooms, and sometimes live commentary or entertainment.

They typically range from 1 to 2 hours for sightseeing cruises. Specialty cruises, such as lunch or dinner cruises, can have longer durations, usually lasting around 2 to 3 hours.

Yes, food and drinks are often served on board Thames River cruises.

Join us whatever the weather

Make the most of London with a River Roamer ticket for all-day travel!

Buy tickets now

Get your tickets now

Travel across London

From all-day passes to one way tickets, travel by boat and enjoy the views!

River and cable car

Experience London from the sky and the river with our joint tickets with IFS Cloud Cable Car!

Illuminated River Official Boat Tour

See London at night bathed in the light of the Illuminated River project. Every Saturday from Tower Pier.

Commute by river

Sit back, sail through rush hour and arrive stress-free. Flexible ticketing options available while season tickets offer you the best value for money

Looking for things to do in London?

We've curated a list of events happening in London this Easter break and in April. From egg hunts to art trails, hop on board and we'll take you there.

New weekday timetable from 2 April

Exciting news! Starting 2 April, we’ll introduce an hourly off-peak daytime service to Royal Wharf and West Zone piers (except Cadogan). Please check the timetable before travelling as this change may have affected your departure time. 

Visit our online merch shop!

Purchase some of your favourite merchandise from our range and have it delivered anywhere in the UK!

Light up your weekend

Tickets are available for the Illuminated River Official Boat Tour every Saturday in January. Get yours now and see London in a new light!

Save with commuter ticket

Your morning commute now costs less with our new ‘Commuter AM‘ ticket that offers a 25% saving! Upgrade your journey into work and enjoy taking in the views with a freshly brewed coffee from the onboard café bar.

Tell us how we did!

If you’ve travelled with us recently, let us know how it went with this quick customer survey.

Looking for day out inspiration?

London is a big city... With so many options on where to go, it can be hard to decide. Luckily for you, we've done the hard work already! Head to our blog to see our recommendations on places to explore along the Thames.

Travel tools

Ticket information, service alerts.

Guaranteed seat

Comfortable seats in climate controlled cabins or enjoy the fresh air on the outside back deck. 

Café bar

A whole range of refreshments are available from the onboard café bar.

Bikes permitted

Bring your bike on board at no extra charge. We can currently carry up to 14 bikes on our largest vessels. Pets are also welcome.

There are toilets with accessible facilities on board most of the fleet. Our larger boats also have baby changing tables.

Save time and money, download the Thames Clippers Tickets app. Buy season tickets and flexible ticket carnets.

London by river

Kids go free!

Go on an adventure with the kids. Travelling by river is a great way for families to explore London differently. They will love being on the back deck! With a Family River Roamer kids go free. 

Enjoy the café bar

Sip, snack and sail! Refreshments are available at our onboard café bar from hot drinks to alcoholic beverages and snacks.

Make special occasions extra special

Add a touch of luxury to your events with our high speed vessel Orion Clipper from VIP transfers, to birthdays and excurions with family or friends.

Accessible travel across London 

Boat accessibility information.

All our boats are wheelchair, mobility scooter and pram accessible by ramp. All boats, except Star, Storm and Sky Clipper, have accessible toilets and larger boats have baby changing tables.

All our piers are step-free and wheelchair accessible except for Cadogan, London Bridge City and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter piers.

Mobility scooter owners are welcome on board but need first to apply for our Mobility Scooter Recognition Scheme .

You can bring your guide or assistance dog on board for free.

Any person with a valid Disabled I.D. badge/card, will get 50% off ticket fares and a complimentary ticket for their carer.

Latest service updates

For the most up to date information on our services please follow   @thamesclippers on X (formerly known as Twitter). You can also find live departure information at the piers or on the Thames Clippers Tickets app.

"I would just like to say, you do an amazing job, always helpful, friendly. Provide an amazing service."

Thames River Cruises 

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is the fastest, most frequent and reliable fleet on the River Thames - carrying over 4 million passengers last year. Unlike most other forms of public transport, we are always reliable - the only days our river boats don’t run are Christmas and Boxing Day.

Thames River Boats 

Our Thames river boats are fully equipped with comfortable seating and plenty of space. Our larger river boats all have licenced on-board bars, with a range of coffees, snacks and alcoholic drinks. They all have toilet facilities, and some even have baby changing facilities. Our Thames river buses have Metro and City AM newspapers available on board and Free Wi-Fi is available at our main piers. The experience of travelling through London on a Thames river bus is unlike any other form of travel, providing an epic experience for its users. Far more enjoyable than struggling for space on a packed London Underground tube, quicker than driving or getting the bus, and less exhausting than walking or riding your bike!

Our History 

Starting in 1999 with just one boat in operation, our fleet has grown exponentially to 20 high-speed Thames river boats, offering services from all major London piers every 10-20 minutes. Our services cater for everyone from early morning commuters to night-time passengers. There are countless reasons to choose a London River Bus over any other form of transport – choose a Thames river cruise next time you need to travel through London.

Guide to Walking the Thames Path

The Thames Path walk is a fantastic river walk, following the iconic River Thames all the way from its Cotswolds source through to the Thames Barrier in central London. At 296km, it’s a lengthy challenge, but its flat profile and easy-to-follow route make for a very doable walk if you have enough time and enough inclination.

Table of Contents

For the vast majority of the Thames Path walk, the trail follows the route of the River Thames. Over the course of the route, the River Thames transforms from a field in which you may well see no water at all to a huge flowing river, which rips England’s iconic capital in half.

There’s plenty of diversity along the walk – some stretches are rural and remote, with nothing in view but sheep, crops, and meadows. While other sections take in iconic sights such as Windsor Castle, Hampton Court, and the majestic university city of Oxford. There’s a prevailing opinion that London doesn’t do nature. But this walk puts that assumption to bed.

The Thames River walk ends or begins, depending on which way you want to walk, right in the heart of London. It takes you through some outstanding areas of natural beauty. For anyone seeking a unique and healthy way to experience London and the river that leads there, this is an incredible walk. Rivers don’t get much more iconic than the Thames, and river walks don’t get much more incredible than this.

Is it Best to Walk West to East or East to West?

There is no right way or wrong way to tackle this National Trail, and because the elevation profile is low, the prevailing wind direction isn’t too much of an issue. That said, if you want to keep the wind at your back (and, in turn, avoid the brunt of any bad weather), you’re best to walk from west to east. Walking from west to east also allows you to experience the growth of the Thames, which is quite a beautiful experience.

It also allows you to view the effect of river water upon communities – as the river grows larger, so too do the towns upon its banks. This direction ends in London, which can be a fantastically cosmopolitan finale – and offers all the big-city luxuries and treats you could desire after many days of walking. If you prefer to end your walk with rurality and peace rather than in the heart of bustling London, the walk from east to west can be just as rewarding.

Where does the Thames Path Take Me?

Assuming you walk west to east, here’s what you’ll experience. From its humble beginnings near Kemble to a human-built barrier defence against flooding, you’ll see the rise, growth, and swell of the iconic Thames. The riverside views are beautiful, full of flowing water, floating boats, and picnicking families. And for many, that’s the highlight.

But take the river away, and the route would still be beautiful. The path passes through and along flora, fauna and farmland and brings walkers into close contact with iconic parts of England’s rich history, with buildings, towns and cities of huge heritage. You’ll also trundle past majestic family homes of palatial proportions. Ranging from silent meadows all the way through to one of the busiest cities on the planet, you won’t find much more variety than this.

Why Walk The Thames Path?

There are quite a few motivations, and here are a few:

• Views. Although it’s largely a flat walk, there are still plenty of beautiful views. The Thames Path won’t give you the dramatic panoramas that other National Trails can offer, but the meadows, banks and townscapes are more than enough to make you fall in love with the aesthetics of the Thames Path.
• For the challenge. The Thames Path is one of the best long distance walks in England . All long-distance walks are a challenge. Make no mistake – though this walk is largely flat, this trek is a huge accomplishment for anyone brave enough to take on the whole thing. 296km is never going to be easy, regardless of the terrain.
• Hiking is like a double win for your well-being. It is not only great for your body but also gives your mind that much-needed zen vibe. So, lace up those boots and hit the trails for a dose of good health and happy thoughts.
• Joining the hiking tribe is like finding your long-lost outdoor family, full of fellow ramblers and trekkers who share your love for the trail. And hey, if you’re a Londoner used to the bustling city life, bumping into kindred spirits along the way will feel like a breath of fresh forest air. Many people complain that London doesn’t have a community of walkers. If you undertake the Thames Path, you’ll see why those complaints are misplaced.
• Ah, English weather, where the forecast is more unpredictable than a plot twist in a telenovela! While you can’t count on endless sunshine, it’s all part of the island’s quirky charm, right? However, this walk offers good terrain for the most part, so you’ll get by unmuddied and unstained (unless there’s flooding, but more on that later). And southern weather is usually more pleasant than the climate up north.
• For a front-row seat to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and vistas, you’ve got to hit the trail. It’s like a “best of” reel of Mother Nature and history, all rolled into one epic journey. There are plenty.

Sights Along the Route

If you walk the whole stretch, there are a huge amount of highlights. You can, of course, tackle the Thames Path route chunks at a time. Here are some of my favourites:  

• Source to Oxford: By far the most remote stretch of the walk, this is the section that serenity lovers will enjoy the most. Apart from a few towns and villages dotted here and there, this section has wildflowers, farm animals, and peace and quiet, which will make the endpoint of London seem unthinkable. In summer, the beginning of this section may show little signs of the river’s source, but the Thames will soon emerge. Old churches, stone bridges, and other ancient architecture make this a beautifully placid journey into England’s history. Just over a quarter of the Thames Path walk, this stretch is beautifully serene.
• Oxford: an iconic and beautiful city, this marks the first time you really emerge from peace and quiet. You’d be remiss not to spend some time here. One of the oldest and most celebrated university towns in Europe, it’s replete with beautiful architecture. Pubs, cathedrals, castles, colleges, and museums, Oxford has the lot.
• The Goring Gap: sandwiched right between two official Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (The Chilterns and The North Wessex Downs), this is the narrowest part of the entire Thames Valley. Set in a beautiful location, it’s leafy, impressive, and historic, allegedly the inspiration for Wind in the Willows! If you’re on a long break and want to take some detours, this is the place to do it – both The Chilterns and The North Wessex Downs are beautiful areas.
• Windsor Castle: the iconic royal residence rises majestically above the water, the grandest of all the grand homes along the banks of the Thames. Whether you step inside or not, clapping eyes upon the castle is a real highlight for anyone who takes on this walk. Just beyond Windsor Castle is Runnymede, another site of huge historical importance – it was here that the Magna Carta was signed.
• Shepperton to Teddington: varied and full of historical significance, this section includes Hampton Court Palace, endless reservoirs, an old racecourse and the important town of Kingston.
• London and the approach towards it: the London chunk of the walk takes in a huge amount of the city’s best sites. Richmond Deer Park, Kew’s Botanic Gardens, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, and much, much more. In this section, you can walk on either the south bank or the north bank of the river – the two routes vary slightly in length, and of course, vary in views and vistas.

If you are interested in other routes near London, check out the best hikes near London .

How Long Will The Thames Path Walk Take?

If you choose to take on the entire challenge, you should plan to do so in around 14 days. Some go for closer to 10, while others extend it to around 18. Go for whatever feels comfortable to you.

If you like a leisurely pace, and you’re more interested in taking in the sights, give yourself more time. Likewise, if you’re motivated by the prospect of a physical challenge, you can go at a quicker pace. The record for running the trail sits at 40 hours and 47 minutes, set in 2015.

Am I Fit Enough?

You should make sure you’re fit enough to take on the walk before you set off. Yes, your cardio might be good enough (and since this walk is flat, it probably will be). But your joints might not quite be up to the challenge. Often, a long walk can throw up previously unnoticed problems, especially in the knees, ankles, and hips. Practice a couple of weekend walks to ensure that this won’t be the case. Here are some walks near London .

And when you do take on the walk, make sure you carry hiking poles – they take a massive amount of pressure off your joints. For the paved sections of this walk, you’re best off wearing lightweight shoes. On hard ground, shoes with overly sturdy soles can hit your joints with unnecessary impact.

When Is The Best Time To Walk The Thames Path?

Generally speaking, May to October is the best time to do the walk. That’s because of potential flooding. In the stretch leading to Oxford (if you’re walking in an easterly direction), the ground has the potential to be unpassable if there’s been any flooding.

Even if the flooding was a while ago, the ground can be muddy, boggy, and unpleasant. If there’s not been much rain, you can walk this trail at any time of year, but winter and spring months offer little in the way of no-rain guarantees. The stretches beyond Oxford are typically passable at any time. Much of the section beyond Oxford is paved, making your walk very easy.

Consider the weather a little before you embark. Do you prefer to walk in hot weather or cold? Do you like the glaring sun or shorter days? Crowds are another important consideration. On the more popular stretches, summer, spring, and autumn weekends can be very busy. And even more so on school holidays. If you’re keen to avoid crowds, plan accordingly.

Is The Thames Path Trail Well-Marked?

If you’ve ever followed a trail, you’ll have absolutely no problems here, as the route is very well marked. You will be okay as the trail follows the course of the River Thames for its vast majority. It’s not hard to see where you should be going.

Navigating the trail is a breeze, thanks to its excellent upkeep. You won’t even need markings to spot the well-trodden paths. Keep an eye out for the cute acorn symbols. They’re your signposts for National Trail routes. And those colourful arrows? Consider them your personal trail guides, pointing you in the right direction as follows:

• Yellow is only for walkers
• When on Blue, watch out for horse riders and cyclists
• Beware when on Plum, as well as all the above, there are also carriage drivers
• And Red is for everyone, including cars

For this walk, there’s no need for a compass. You might want to carry a map or a guidebook to spot the sights along the way, but there’s no real need for any tools when it comes to navigation.

Packing for The Thames Path

The amount of equipment you’ll need to carry will depend on where you plan to stay each night – more for camping, a bit less for hostels, and less again for hotels and B&Bs.

• Clothes. Ah, the packing conundrum, how to travel light without sacrificing essentials. Here’s a pro tip: go all-in on Merino Wool gear. Not only is it super comfy, but it also needs less washing. Yep, even your undies and socks can be low-maintenance. Toss in some waterproofs for good measure, and you’re golden. Oh, and don’t even think about leaving without a hat. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect trail trousers, check out my roundup of the best hiking pants .
• Make sure you have decent shoes. Trust me, you don’t want to break in new shoes on the trail. Make sure you’ve got well-worn, trusty shoes that have already been on a few dates with your feet. I have written a couple of round-ups of the best hiking shoes and best shoes for women .
• Water bottles and purification tablets are your hydration dream team on the trail. Grab a couple of sturdy, refillable bottles and toss in some purification tablets just in case you can’t find that crystal-clear stream. Better safe than thirsty, right?
• First aid kit: Don’t hit the trail without one! Even if it’s just for a bandage or a quick aspirin, make sure it’s stocked with essentials like rehydration sachets and sunscreen. Safety first, adventure second.
• Hiking poles are great on long trails.
• Camping gear (optional): If you’re all about that tent life, ensure your gear is lightweight and top-notch. Cooking? Bring compact kitchen essentials. Just know this trail isn’t a camper’s paradise. Some stretches are more B&B than backcountry. Plan accordingly.
• Food: Whether you’re camping or not, snacks are a must! Opt for lightweight, high-calorie munchies to keep you fueled without weighing you down.

Thames Path Accommodation

On the Thames Path, the vast majority of hikers sleep in indoor accommodation en route. Accommodation options include hotels, guesthouses, hostels, bed and breakfasts. Because this walk is a long one, we can’t cover all the options en route, but here are a few choice highlights:

• The Trout Inn at Tadpole Bridge, Buckland Marsh ( https://www.trout-inn.co.uk/ ). Log fires, warm welcomes, and rustic interiors, this is a fantastic pub for an overnighter. They specialise in boat hire and local sausages!
• YHA Oxford ( https://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-oxford ). An affordable option in a city of expensive accommodation, YHA Oxford is located close to the trail and close to most of Oxford’s big attractions. Many walkers stay here, and you will meet other hikers walking the path.
• Longridge Activity Centre, Marlow. Something a little bit different, this activity centre reaches out to kids and adults who like to adventure, offering activities such as kayaking, abseiling, and climbing. If you have kids in tow on your walk, this is an excellent option. A good choice for those walking on a budget.
• Riverbank House, Cookham ( http://www.riverbankcookham.co.uk/ ). An alternative to the above if you’re not too keen on more physical exertion, this is a proper bed and breakfast inside a Grade II listed building. Great panoramas, friendly faces, and excellent food. A fantastic choice.
• Dee and Steve’s B&B, Windsor ( http://www.deeandsteve.com/ ). A relatively affordable option in the heart of pricey Windsor and very close to the trail, this is a great bed and breakfast. A great location, fantastic hospitality, and is very affordable. This is a great middle ground option, suitable both for budget backpackers and those who usually crave a little more luxury.
• London: London runs the gamut when it comes to accommodation options. Hostels, bed and breakfasts, hotels, Airbnbs, and plenty more. If you’re keen on a cheap stay in London, the YHA has plenty of properties. But those seeking luxury can find plenty of decadence.

Related Hikes:

• Hadrian’s Wall Path
• Cotswold Way
• South Down Way
• Pennine Way Guide
• Coast to Coast Walk Guide

Are There Places To Eat And Drink Along The Thames Path?

Yes. You’ll rarely struggle to find anywhere to eat and drink. You’ll never walk more than 15km without finding a spot with a tasty meal – or at least an opportunity to stock up on snacks. As you move eastwards, these eating opportunities become more ever-present. This is one of the great draws of this walk. Because it’s not too remote, you won’t have to worry too much about when and where to eat.

Other National Trails can be a little more complex in this regard. That said, you should stock up on some snacks before you leave, because endless walking is bound to leave you hungry.

There are loads of good pubs and restaurants along the way, which are a fantastic way to get close to the cuisine of this part of the world. Country pubs are always a fantastic staple of British hiking, and this walk brings you into close contact with many of them. Make sure you pop in to some good pubs for some good beer! As for restaurants, you have plenty of options.

Because you meander through countless areas of cosmopolitan diversity, the range of food on offer is fantastic – the eastern side of the walk is a great way to sample the diverse cuisine of southern England. The Thames Path is an excellent challenge for walkers of any description.

Its hefty distance offers a challenge to even the hardiest of walkers, while the elevation profile and friendly ground will appeal to casual hikers. For this reason, it’s a great choice if you want to walk with friends, family, kids, elderly relatives, or anyone else who doesn’t want a trail too intense. It’s also a very diverse walk, offering huge contrasts between bustling cities and quiet meadows.

The route itself might also appeal to some. Because you’re following a complete river, from source to climax, you feel as if you’re taking a journey of natural significance. An archetypal British walk, full of so many things which make Britain great, this is an excellent National Trail. Lace up your shoes and get on your way.

Can You Cycle The Thames Path

Yes, you can cycle the Thames Path. Spanning over 180 miles, the scenic trail follows the iconic River Thames from its source in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier in London. Suitable for cyclists of all levels, it provides a fantastic opportunity to explore England’s stunning landscape and historic landmarks along the way.

I love hiking, backpacking, and camping. From the Camino de Santiago to the West Highland Way in Scotland or simply a great day hike on the weekend. Hiking refreshes me, my mind, and keeps my body reasonably fit. So far I have walked three Camino routes and many other long distance hikes in the UK, Canada, and around the rest of Europe. One of the best was my hike up Ben Nevis.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Walking the Thames Path: 184 Miles of Beautiful Nature and Historic Landmarks

The Thames Path is a national trail that stretches for 184 miles (294 kilometres) along the River Thames in England, from its source in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier in London.

When most people think about the Thames path, they think they will only be walking through the city of London.

But here’s the thing:

That couldn’t be further from the truth, you see, the Thames Path opens you up to more than just the biggest city in England.

And in this article, I’m going to be explaining all the beautiful places this stunning hike takes you on, so don’t go anywhere. 

Highlights of The Thames Path

Table of Contents

• Explore Picturesque villages and towns: The trail passes through many charming villages and towns such as Oxford, Henley-on-Thames, Windsor, and Richmond, each with their unique history and architecture.
• Walk in Stunning scenery: Walkers can enjoy beautiful English countryside landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys on the route.
• Visit Historic landmarks: The Thames Path passes by many historical landmarks, such as the ancient ruins of Cliveden, Hampton Court Palace, and the Tower of London.
• Chimney Meadows Nature Reserve : Located near Oxford, Chimney Meadows is a wetland reserve with rare plants and a variety of wildlife such as otters, water voles, and dragonflies.
• Wallingford Castle Meadows: Situated in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, this reserve offers a chance to spot a variety of birds, such as kingfishers, herons, and swans.
• D orney Wetlands: This reserve near Windsor is a great spot for birdwatching, with a variety of waterfowl and rare bird species.
• Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve: Located in East London, this reserve offers a unique blend of urban and rural habitats, with diverse bird species, marshland, and a variety of flora and fauna.
• London Wetland Centre : Located near Richmond, London, this reserve is a haven for waterfowl and offers a chance to see rare bird species such as bitterns and kingfishers.
• Visit London’s iconic landmarks: The path ends in London, passing many iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, London Bridge and the Tower Bridge.
• Refuel and relax at riverside pubs and restaurants: There are many riverside pubs and restaurants along the way, offering a chance to rest and enjoy some traditional English cuisine.

Who Will Enjoy Walking The Thames Path?

It’s a great choice for walkers who love nature – especially birders, history and foodies, so it offers a lot and is a great way to combine interests, or a great choice if you’re walking with someone else who has different interests. 

And if you love walking but don’t love walking up hills, this is the perfect walk; since you’re following the river downstream, it’s mainly a flat route. 

History of The Thames Path

The trail starts in the Cotswolds and takes you through several counties before reaching your final destination in the heart of London.

The River Thames became iconic because it helped trade to the city of London and helped it grow.

In the 1930s, people started to wonder what they could do regarding this iconic path. But it wasn’t until 1996 that groups such as the Ramblers Association and the River Thame Society decided it should be open to hikers.

The Thames Path National Trail is one of 16 national trails found in the UK.

Here’s a list of all the national trails in the UK: Cleveland Way, Cotswold Way, Glyndwr’s Way, Hadrian’s Wall Path , North Downs Way, Offa’s Dyke Path, Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path, Pennine Bridleway, Pennine Way , Pembrokeshire Coast Path, The Ridgeway , South Downs Way, South West Coast Path, Thames Path, The West Highland Way , Yorkshire Wolds Way. 

Your 15-Day Itinerary to Walking The Thames Path

The Thames Path follows one of the most iconic rivers in the UK for 184 miles, and your 15-day-by-day breakdown with daily distances looks a little bit like this.

I’ve hiked in the UK for 20 years, have experience in teaching outdoor education and have walked the Thames Path, so you’re in good hands. I’ll share the highlights, point out tricky or technical sections if there are any, and share my favorite accommodations for walkers each day. Let’s get started!

Day 1: Walking From The Source To Cricklade

• Start Point: The Source
• Distance: 12.3 miles (19.7 km)
• Finish Point: Crickdale

Your first day of hiking starts you off at the source of the River Thames, which lies in a small Cotswold meadow beneath an elderly ash tree in the town of Kemble.

The route follows the small river through stunning pastures and many small Cotswold villages (like Ashton Keynes and Somerford Keynes) known for their creamy stonework building slate roofs.

You’ll find these places excellent for stopping off at local country pubs for lunch before continuing your walk.

One of the highlights of this section is the North Meadow National Nature Reserve. In late April you can see the rare snakehead fritillary flowers in bloom.

You’ll eventually find your way to the small town of Cricklade , which dates back to Saxon times and is where you’ll spend the night.

Some of your accommodation options for the night include The Old Bear , The Vale Hotel , and The Red lion .

Day 2: Walking From Cricklade To Lechlade

• Start Point: Cricklade
• Distance: 11 miles (17.5 km)
• Finish Point: Lechlade

From Crickdale, you’ll continue following the tiny river to the village of Castle Eaton, which has a stunning 12th-century church that’s worth a visit. 

From this point, you’ll leave the river briefly while following tracks and bridleways to the town of Upper Inglesham.

Quick Note: The Thames Path has a new trail between Upper Inglesham and Inglesham, so you no longer have to follow the verge of the A361. It’s well-signposted.

Once you’re in the town of Inglesham, there’s yet another beautiful church called St John the Baptist, and it’s only a short walk from the Thames Path. It was restored in the 19th century by William Morris, a famous poet and craftsman that lived in the area. It’s worth a visit.

As you continue your hike, you’ll make your way to the town of Lechlade , where a stone bridge and its toll house are still to be seen. Don’t worry; there’s no toll to pay anymore.

It’s a pretty small town with a few places to rest your head for the night, including The New Inn and Lechlade Court.

Day 3: Walking From Lechlade To Newbridge

• Start Point: Lechlade
• Distance: 16.4 miles (26.2 km)
• Finish Point: Newbridge

This will be your longest day walking on the Thames Path as you follow the ever-growing Thames River.

I actually really enjoyed this section of the hike; it’s tranquil and wonderfully remote, with great views the entire way.

You’ll pass through many meadows where sheep or cattle graze the fields and find plenty of hedgerows with blackberries (depending on the season).

Just after you reach Tadpole Bridge, the path will take you through Chimney Meadows National Nature Reserve, which is rich with wildlife.

You’ll also pass the oldest bridge on the Thames Path, which is ironically named Newbridge, which dates back to the 13th century. And it’s here you can spend the night at the Rose Revived Hotel, which is the only accommodation in the area.

Day 4: Walking From Newbridge To Oxford

• Start Point: Newbridge
• Distance: 14 miles (22.4 km)
• Finish Point: Oxford

At this point, I noticed that the Thames River was growing significantly, which means the size of boats is also getting larger.

The route remains fairly remote until you reach the city of Oxford, where it becomes busier.

You’ll walk through the town of Bablock Hythe, where there used to be a ferry, and then the path leaves the river for a few miles.

As you continue walking, you’ll see Swindon Bridge which was built in the 1770s. It’s one of the two remaining toll bridges on the route.

You then loop through Wytham Woods, a natural area of national beauty, before heading into Oxford city.

Before you go to bed, take a look at Oxford Castle & Prison, it’s pretty interesting, and then from there, make your way to your accommodation. There are plenty of places to choose from, like The Master’s Lodgings or Longwak Annex Courtyard.

Day 5: Walking From Oxford To Abingdon-On-Thames

• Start Point: Oxford
• Distance: 13.5 miles (21.6 km)
• Finish Point: Abingdon-On-Thames

Today you will make your way to the market town of Abingdon-On Thames . It’s a pretty short part of the Thames Path, so waking up early is unnecessary.

The path leaves the city of Oxford to the south towards the lock in Sandford town, which is just a few miles away from Oxford.

Soon after, you’ll find yourself crossing the Thames at Abingdon Lock and then arriving at Abingdon Bridge, where you’ll find the town just to the north of the bridge.

If you have time, check out the town hall, for a bit of history. It was built in 675 AD!

You can find plenty of places to stay while you’re there, including The Brewery Tap , The Crown & Thistle , and The Cosener’s House .

Day 6: Walking From Abingdon-On-Thames To Wallingford

• Start Point: Abingdon-On-Thames
• Finish Point: Wallingford

Today you’ll pass many tiny villages and settlements like Little Wittenham, Wittenham Clumps, and Benson.

For me, one of the highlights of today was taking a detour to Castle Hill, where you can find an Iron Age fort with great views of the surrounding area.

If you don’t fancy the steep climb, you can check out Wallingford Castle, which was built by the Normans and demolished in the 17th century after the Civil War.

Once you arrive at the market town of Wallingford, you can rest your head for the night at The George Hotel or Thames Edge Rooms .

Day 7: Walking From Wallingford To Tilehurst

• Start Point: Wallingford
• Distance: 14.6 miles (23.7 km)
• Finish Point: Tilehurst

This is another lovely day of walking with beautiful scenery and settlements before reaching the outskirts of Reading city.

You walk through the countryside before reaching the beech wood skyline in the distance. You’ll then reach Goring Gap, which is the narrowest part of the Thames Valley.

Tilehurst is a suburb town of reading, where you’ll spend the night at Riverside Park Homes.

Day 8: Walking From Tilehurst To Henley-On-Thames

• Start Point: Tilehurst
• Finish Point: Henley-On-Thames

Reading is a fairly busy city, but luckily the Thames Path remains relatively quiet, which makes a nice contrast. As you leave Reading, you’ll be treated to wooded hills, impressive houses, and the River Thames.

The river takes you to the town of Sonning and over the lovely pedestrian 18th-century bridge.

You’ll also pass the Kennet and Avon Canal, where you can walk all the way to the city of Bath if you please.

And finally, you’ll reach the town of Henley-On-Thames , known for the famous Royal Regatta (an annual rowing event). You can also check out the rowing museum while you’re there.

You can spend the night at Hotel Du Vin Henley-On-Thames , beside the River Thames.

Day 9: Walking From Henley-On-Thames To Marlow

• Start Point: Henley-On-Thames
• Distance: 8.7 miles (13.9 km)
• Finish Point: Marlow

You’re in for a short day of walking today, so you have plenty of time to relax or explore the local towns or villages.

You’ll leave Henley, where you’ll follow the regatta course on a straight line to Temple Island, which is the starting point for the race. You might think a temple is there, but it’s a small fishing hut.

You’ll have picturesque views throughout the walk as you reach Hambleden Mill, which only ceased working in 1955.

Shortly after, you’ll reach Hurley, a small but lovely village with much history and beautiful buildings.

Eventually, you’ll hit the town of Marlow , where you get lovely views of Bisham Church on the other side of the bank.

There are many places to stay the night in Marlow, including Macdonald Compleat Angler , The Prince of Wales , and The Chequers Marlow .

Day 10: Walking From Marlow To Windsor

• Start Point: Marlow
• Distance: 14.3 miles (22.3 km)
• Finish Point: Windsor

You could argue that Marlow is one of the most beautiful areas of the Thames, and it’s a shame to leave. As you leave towards the village of Maidenhead river, the area becomes busier, and the views of homes become very grand.

None more than the royal residence of Windsor Castle , which you can see towering above the water.

After switching between grazed land and beech woods, you’ll find Cliveden Estate, a beautiful building.

You have a few accommodation choices, including Castle Hotel Windsor , Royal Adelaide , and a Holiday Inn .

Day 11: Walking From Windsor To Shepperton

• Start Point: Windsor
• Distance: 13.7 miles (21.9 km)
• Finish Point: Shepperton

You’re getting closer to London now, so the number of towns and settlements is beginning to increase, and a quiet walk suddenly feels less so.

You’ll reach the borough of Runnymede, a historical symbol because it’s where King John signed the Magna Carta in 1215.

You’ll find one of the few copies left is in Oxford in the Bodleian Library, which you can visit while in Oxford.

When you reach the town of Staines-Upon-Thames, check out Penton Hook Island, it’s excellent for looking at boats and exploring the wooded island.

As you continue following the Thames, you’ll reach the village of Shepperton , where you can spend the night at Weir , The Holiday Inn , or the Flower Pot .

Day 12: Walking From Shepperton To Teddington

• Start Point: Shepperton
• Distance: 10.9 miles (17.4 km)
• Finish Point: Teddington

You’ll pass reservoirs, an old race course, and a royal palace during this hike section. Follow the river on the south bank where you’ll pass an enormous reservoir which provides water to the capital.

After a bit more walking, you’ll reach a green space that marks the location of Hurst Park, where they used to race horses.

You’ll also see Hampton Court Palace and its Home Park, built by Cardinal Wolsey and added to by Henry VIII, which dominates the river until Kingston Bridge.

As you pass Kingston-Upon-Thames, you can think back to all the Anglo-Saxon Kings that were crowned there.

Not long after, you’ll reach the borough of Teddington , where you can spend the night at the Park Hotel , The Lensbury Resort , or Teddington B&B.

Day 13: Walking From Teddington To Putney (South Bank)

• Start Point: Teddington
• Distance: 11.6 miles (18.6 km)
• Finish Point: Putney

Along this stretch, you’ll pass eight bridges, including Richmond Bridge, Hammersmith Bridge, Kew Bridge and Putney Bridge. You have a choice between hiking the north or south bank, providing alternative routes. 

I chose the south bank because it feels slightly more rural than the north bank. The south bank takes you past some fantastic parks, fields, and gardens, including Hamlands nature reserve, the famous deer park and lung of London Richmond Park, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

After a bit of walking, you’ll make it to Putney , where you’ll find Putney Bridge and a place to rest for the night. You can stay at Ellie B&B, MK 1 , or The Lodge .

Day 14: Walking From Putney To Tower Bridge (South Bank)

• Start Point: Putney
• Distance: 10.5 miles (16.8 km)
• Finish Point: Tower Bridge

You’re on the second to last day, and you have to choose between the north or south bank again. I decided to stick to the south bank, where a lot of development has happened since I lived there 20 years ago.

Battersea Park provides you with some green space on the first part of the walk. Then, on the south riverside path you’ll cross Westminster Bridge, towards Tower Bridge.  Alternatively, you can walk along the north bank towards the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. You’ll also find many theatres and galleries. like the Tate Modern art museum. 

There is accommodation in the area, but it can be pretty pricey, thanks to the area. Accommodation includes London Tower Bridge Apartments , the Hilton , and The Tower Hotel London .

Day 15: Walking From Tower Bridge To Woolwich Foot Tunnel (South Bank)

• Start Point: Tower Bridge
• Distance: 11.2 miles (18 km)
• Finish Point: Woolwich Foot Tunnel

It’s officially your last day of hiking today, and again, you have to choose between the shorter north bank or the longer south bank route.

I felt like I should stick to the south bank for continuity. The route on the south bank starts with cobbled paths and tall warehouses where you get a feeling of what it might have looked like during Victorian times.

On the way to the borough of Greenwich, it’s pretty residential but still has some great views across the river.

Eventually, you’ll finish your hike at the Woolwich Foot Tunnel, which connects to the England Coast Path National Trail.

Thames Path Accommodation Guide

For your easy reference, here is a list of where you’ll want to book your accommodations for the 15-day itinerary:

Arrival Day: The Source

Day 1: Cricklade . Our Recommendations: The Old Bear , The Vale Hotel or The Red Lion

Day 2: Lechlade . Our Recommendations: The New Inn or Lechlade Court

Day 3: Newbridge. Our Recommendation: Rose Revived Hotel

Day 4: Oxford . Our Recommendations: The Master’s Lodgings or Longwall Annex Courtyard

Day 5: Abingdon-On-Thames . Our Recommendations: The Brewery Tap , The Crown & Thistle or The Cosener’s House

Day 6: Wallingford . Our Recommendations: The George Hotel or Thames Edge Rooms

Day 7: Tilehurst . Our Recommendation: Riverside Park Homes

Day 8: Henley-On-Thames . Our Recommendation: Hotel Du Vin Henley-On-Thames

Day 9: Marlow . Our Recommendations: Macdonald Compleat Angler , The Prince of Wales or The Chequers Marlow

Day 10: Windsor . Our Recommendations: Castle Hotel Windsor , Royal Adelaide or Holiday Inn

Day 11: Shepperton . Our Recommendations: Weir , The Holiday Inn or Flower Pot

Day 12: Teddington . Our Recommendations: Park Hotel , The Lensbury Resort or Teddington B&B

Day 13: Putney . Our Recommendations: Ellie B&B, MK 1 or The Lodge

Day 14: Tower Bridge. Our Recommendations: London Tower Bridge Apartments , Hilton or The Tower Hotel London

Day 15: Woolwich Foot Tunnel

Frequently Asked Questions About Walking The Thames Path

How many days does it take to walk the thames path.

It’s a 184-mile walk, and on average, people complete the hike in around 12-20 days, but it can be done quicker if you don’t mind walking further each day. It all depends on how far you’re willing to walk and what you want to see along the way. I did it in 15 days and found that was a good balance of walking while still having time for sightseeing.

When’s the best time to do it? 

As always, it’s best to walk in the summer in the UK as it’s your best chance of avoiding rain.

Plus, you get to see all the wildflowers in full bloom along the way. Spring is also a good time for the flowers, but there’s more of a chance of rain.

What Gear Do I Need To Bring on the Thames Path?

Here’s our list of recommended trekking gear for a multi-day walk like this. Of special note is buying clothing made from Merino wool , which is perfect for English weather, especially if you’re doing the walk in spring or fall.

You’ll also want to bring a blister kit to help avoid painful blisters.

Plus, I like to bring a good hiking book so I have something to read in the evenings (usually on my Kindle) and record the day in my hiking journal .

And for the ladies who still want to look good while doing this route, check out our hiking makeup tips .

How do I get to the start?

The walk starts near the village of Kemble in Gloucestershire. Kemble has a railway station and is connected with national rail service from London Paddington and other major cities in the UK.

The train journey from London Paddington to Kemble takes around 1.5-2 hours, with regular train services running throughout the day.

Once you arrive at Kemble Station, you can either walk or take a taxi or a bus to the source of the Thames Path at Thames Head, approximately 4 miles (6.5 kilometres) from the train station.

There are several taxi and bus services available at the station. It takes approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi or 30-40 minutes by bus.

Where can I eat along the Thames Path?

You’ll pass through many villages, towns and cities where you can eat lunch or stock up on snacks. I recommend always carrying extra food with you in case you get hungry, and you’re not near someplace where you can buy food.

You’ll also want to have a  good hiking breakfast  before you head out each day.

More Information on Walking the Thames Path

Guidebooks are great sources of information, like this guidebook which includes a route planner, route maps if you’re planning on doing it by yourself.

The Thames past is an epic walk with a fantastic mix of nature and history along the source of the most iconic river in the UK.

One of the best things about this walk is it’s mainly flat. You’re following a river most of the time, so there are pretty much no hills to walk up or down.

And that means most walkers shouldn’t have any problems taking on this stunning 184-mile Thames Path.  

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Flamingo Hiker

Walks Ideas & Inspiration For Londoners

Oxford Thames Path Walk – Complete Guide & Map

14 January 2023 By Lily

Do you want to change from the Thames Path in London? So try the Oxford Thames Path walk. This circular walk takes you on a gentle stroll alongside the River Thames from Oxford, coming back by the field of Port Meadow. This walk is ideal for anyone wanting some fresh countryside air without going far from civilisation.

I wanted to visit the Oxford Christmas Market, but also experience the beauty of the countryside near the town. So I jumped on my Outdooractive app and planned a circular walk following the Thames Path and coming back via a field to arrive just a stroll away from the said Christmas Market. Check at the end of this article for a bonus on the Market.

Logistics of the Oxford Thames Path Walk

• Distance :6.6 miles (10.62 km)
• Ascent : 36 ft (8 m)
• Highest Point: 210 ft (64 m)
• Lowest Point : 184 ft (56 m)
• Walking Estimate : 2 hours and 35 minutes
• Difficulty : Easy
• Direct trains from Paddington or Marylebone to Oxford. The journey takes approximately 1 hour with the fast train and 1 hour and 30 minutes with the slow train
• It is a circular walk so you can buy a day return ticket.
• Please note that Chiltern Railway requires that you book a seat to guarantee your access to the train.
• Comfortable clothing and footwear
• Packed lunch if you are not planning on stopping at a pub for lunch
• Rain gear if you are going on a rainy day. Please note that as you are walking on the banks of the Thames, the path can get muddy, so don’t forget to pack your gaiters
• Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if you are going on a bright day
• There are no public toilets on this walk
• This is a stile-free walk
• Dog-friendly walk
• The Trout Inn , Godstow
• Oxford Retreat Pub , Oxford

Highlights of the Oxford Thames Path Walk

• River Thames
• Godstow Hamlet
• Godstow Abbey and Nunnery ruins
• Wolvercote Village

Port Meadow

• Oxford Christmas Market

A Little Bit of History

Our walk starts in the town of Oxford. Originally a Saxon settlement, the town’s importance rapidly grew thanks to its perfect location at the junction of the River Thames and the River Cherwell. Oxford then fell under Danes’ domination in the tenth century, before being conquered by the Normans. The town proliferated under the reign of King Henry II however it was devasted by the sweating sickness epidemic in 1517. The town played an important role during the English Civil War, as King Charles I found shelter in Oxford after he was expelled from London.

During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the town developed massively thanks to the construction of the Oxford Canal and the opening of the rail route from Oxford to London. Industries such as car manufacturing and printing started to develop in the same period, contributing to the town’s economic success. However, they declined rapidly during the 1970s, leaving education and tourism as the main sectors of employment.

Oxford is well known for its University . Established circa 1096, it is the oldest University in the English-speaking world. The University is composed of colleges offering a wide range of courses from languages to medicine, biology to fine art. It enrols an average of 3,500 new students every year and ranks number 1 in both The Complete and The Times publications for 2023.

The Oxford Thames Path Walk

So now we covered the basics, let’s get to the walk!

The Thames Path in Oxford

When you come out of the train station, get to the main road and turn right onto Botley Road. Walk under the bridge and you find the signpost to the Thames Path a little bit further down on your right. Go down to the Thames Path, which is pretty much residential on this part of the walk.

As you continue walking alongside the Thames Path, the path becomes a bit more foresty (and bushy!). The houses leave space for a different kind of accommodation which are the houseboats.

The path then terminates as you get to the end of a small island in the middle of the Thames. Take the bridge on your left and join the towpath on the border of the River Thames. On the right, you can enjoy an obstacle-free view of the River Thames and a meadow on the other bank, where we will be walking through on our way back.

As you get further away from the town, you start seeing poneys grazing on the opposite bank.

Continue walking and you can see the ruins of an Abbey away. This means you are getting closer to the end of the Oxford Thames Path.

Related Content : Best River Thames Walks Near London

At about 2.5 miles (4 km) from Oxford on the banks of the Thames, you find the hamlet of Godstow. Its 3 main landmarks are :

• The ruins of the Godstow Abbey and Nunnery
• A stone bridge
• The Trout Inn Public House

Godstow Abbey

The Godstow Nunnery was founded around 1115 by Ediva of Winchester. After it became an Abbey in honour of St. Mary and St. John the Baptist, she became the first abbess. It was the house of a striving community of Benedictines, with courts, cloisters and gardens.

The Abbey became (in)famous when King Henry I’s mistress, Rosamund Clifford, retired to Godstow Abbey after her relationship with the King ended in 1176. She died at the Abbey a few years later and her tomb was laid in the choir of the Church until 1778 when it was moved to the cemetery.

The Abbey was dissolved in November 1539 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII and the building was destroyed, including the tomb of Rosamund Clifford. The estate was given by the king to Sir George Owen, who turned it into a home. It was sold in 1616 to the Walter Family, and during the Civil War, they fortified the house to protect it against the Parliamentarians. However, during the siege of Oxford, the Roundheads led an attack on the house and burned it. After that, the ruins of the site have been used by the locals as a source of bricks and the house has never been inhabited since.

Fun fact: The ruins of the Abbey are used as a backdrop in the movie Mama Mia, Here We Go Again!

You can walk inside the brick wall onto what used to be the Nuns’ inner court as well as inside the ruins of the Church. To have a glimpse at the structure of the stone bridge, you need to cross over Godstow Road. To get back on the train, retrace your steps and cross the bridge leading to the Trout Inn.

Wolvercourt

We are now leaving the Oxford Thames Path to close the loop and get back to Oxford via Port Meadow.

A little bit after the Trout Inn, as you walk on Godstow Road you arrive at the village of Wolvercote. First mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086, it was known for raising geese and a goose is still the village’s symbol. The village benefited from the construction of the Oxford Canal between 1774 and 1790 as well as the opening of the Oxford to Rugby rail route. The village’s main activity in the eighteenth century was the production of paper for the University of Oxford. This was made possible thanks to the paper mill powered by water on the Thames. It ceased operating in 1998 and the mill was destroyed in 2004. Nowadays, the village provides a nice countryside lifestyle so close to the town of Oxford.

As you walk through the village, you pass in front of the Wolvercote Baptiste Church, built in 1886. When you get closer to the railway, you find a gate on your right to enter Port Meadow.

You then set food on the meadow you saw earlier when walking alongside the Oxford Thames Path. The 300 acres (120 ha) of pasture in front of you are used for animal grazing and as recreational grounds.

The legend says that the site has never been ploughed, meaning that you can find a lot of archaeological artefacts from the Bronze Age to the Civil War. It is believed the site was given to the Freeman of Oxford by Alfred the Great for their support in his campaign against the Danes. The Freemans have the right to graze their animals in the meadow free of charge, and this right remains until now.

During WWI, the site was used as a training camp for the Royal Air Force and during WWII as a camp for the soldiers evacuated from Dunkirk during Operation Dynamo also known as the Myracle of Dunkirk.

Nowadays, the site is the ideal spot for walkers, runners and cyclists. During the hot season, people gather on the bank of the Thames for sunbathing and a dip. As the meadow can get flooded, during the cold months, it turns into a gigantic natural ice-skating ring.

Fun fact: On 4th July 1862, Lewis Carol and Reverand Robinson Duckworth were rowing on the River Thames in front of Port Meadow. They were accompanied by three young girls, one being named Alice. To entertain the young ladies, Lewis Carol made up a story which later became Alice in Wonderland

Note: Port Meadow is a typical flood- meadow so check before you go that the path is not flooded – unless you want to bring your ice skates!

Back to Oxford

When you reach the edge of Port Meadow, you find yourself back at the mouth of Castle Mill Stream which we passed by at the start of our walk. From there you have 2 choices:

• You can retrace your steps and get back to Oxford via the Thames Path
• You can divert and turn left when you get to Castle Mill Stream. Further down the path, take right onto Roger Duman Way. There is a paved pedestrian road going behind the student accommodation, following the rail tracks. It is now very pretty, but should the path be muddy on the day, it turns out to be a handy alternative.

You arrive in Oxford near the train station. Take left and pass in front of the Sand Business School to get to the city centre. Continue straight on Hythe Bridge Street and just before the bridge you find a pub called the Oxford Retreat. In a traditional British pub atmosphere, enjoy a Sunday Roast and a cup of mulled wine by the fireplace or in a booth. Please note this pub also has an amazing outdoor seating space. It’s perfect for when the sun is out.

Bon appetit!

Bonus: Should you choose to do this walk near Christmas time, don’t forget to go take a look at the Oxford Christmas Market located on Broad Street.

Related Content : Best Winter Walks Near London

Oxford Thames Path Walk Map

Do you want to do this walk? Simply download the map below by clicking on the download button. If you need extra help uploading it onto your navigation app, please check my step-by-step guide here .

Final Thoughts on the Oxford Thames Path

Where to go next on the Thames Path? There are many days walks accessible from London that you can do alongside the River Thames. Check the below guides and download the maps for free.

Thames Path Walk Hampton Court To Kew – Guide & Map

Thames Path Richmond To Kew: From A Royal Park To Royal Gardens

Walking The Thames Path To Windsor

Thames Path: Belvedere To Greenwich Walk

A Walk Along The Thames In London – 20 Things To See

Like this walk? Pin it!

Check The Latest Walks

The_flamingo_hiker_uk.

• Difficult Walks
• Intermediate Walks
• Long – Distance Walks
• Coastal Walks
• Forest Walks
• River Walks
• Buyers Guides
• Hiking Gear

• International

April 12, 2024 - Israel-Hamas war

By Chris Lau, Sana Noor Haq, Adrienne Vogt , Matt Meyer and Tori B. Powell , CNN

Our live coverage of Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza has moved  here .

USAID worker killed in Israel, agency says

From CNN's Jennifer Hansler

A staff member with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) died Friday in the Israeli port city of Jaffa, the agency announced.

The male staffer was with USAID’s West Bank and Gaza mission, the agency said in a brief statement.

USAID did not provide details on the circumstances around his death or his identity or citizenship.

“He was a dedicated member of our team for more than two decades, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues,” USAID said.

USAID is working with the US Embassy to work out details about the fatal incident and its follow-up investigation, it said.

US expects Iran to carry out direct strikes against targets inside Israel, sources say

From CNN's MJ Lee and Natasha Bertrand

The United States currently expects Iran will carry out strikes against multiple targets inside Israel and that Iranian proxies could also be involved in carrying out the attacks, according to a senior administration official and a source familiar with the intelligence.  

The targets would likely be both inside Israel and around the region.

The beginning of a state-on-state conflict between Iran and Israel would mark a serious escalation in the region that the US has hoped to avoid.

US sees Iran moving military assets including drones and cruise missiles, sources say

From Natasha Bertrand and Oren Liebermann

The US observed Iran moving military assets around internally, including drones and cruise missiles, signaling that it is possibly preparing to attack Israeli targets from inside its own territory, according to two people familiar with US intelligence. 

It is not clear whether Iran is preparing to strike from its soil as part of an initial attack, or if it is posturing to try to deter Israel or the US from conducting a possible counter strike on its territory. 

One of the people said the US had observed Iran readying as many as 100 cruise missiles.

Some context: The Iranians want their retaliatory strike on Israel — a response to the Israeli strike on an Iranian consulate last week in Damascus — to be "significant," one of the people familiar with the intelligence said. But they also want to avoid getting embroiled in a direct war with Israel and the US, CNN has reported, which is why US intelligence has assessed that Iran may use its proxy forces to launch the first attack.

Israeli settlers storm village in West Bank and kill at least 1 Palestinian. Here's what you should know

From CNN staff

Hundreds of armed Israeli settlers stormed a village in the occupied West Bank on Friday, setting fire to several homes and cars — and leaving at least one Palestinian dead — in one of the largest attacks by settlers this year, according to Palestinian officials. 

The settlers attacked Al-Mughayyir village, east of Ramallah, raided homes and fired gunshots at residents, according to Amin Abu-Alia, the head of the village council. Videos obtained by CNN show parts of the village burning, with smoke billowing over several buildings and settlers lobbing rocks. Houses and cars are seen completely burnt up, with sounds of gunfire and clashes heard in the background.

Here are other headlines you should know:

• More Israeli attacks: An Israeli airstrike early Friday killed at least 29 people and injured dozens more after troops targeted a house belonging to the well-known Al-Tabatibi family in eastern Gaza City, according to a local health official. Israeli forces also surrounded and attacked the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, wounding several journalists and at least one other person. And in the occupied West Bank, troops killed two Hamas members in a raid on the city of Tubas, according to Israeli and Palestinian officials.
• Hezbollah-Israel clashes: Around 40 rockets were fired from Lebanon on Friday evening, according to the Israeli military. Some were intercepted and the rest fell in open areas, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement. Israeli warplanes also carried out several airstrikes on Friday, targeting "military buildings" used by Hezbollah fighters in parts of southern Lebanon, the IDF said.
• Iranian threats: US President Joe Biden told reporters Friday he expects an attack from Iran will happen “sooner than later," with the White House adding that there is a "very credible" threat of Iranian retaliatory strikes against Israel. Additionally, the US Defense Department is moving additional assets to the Middle East region, a defense official told CNN, as the US and Israel brace for the potential attack . Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and US Central Command Commander Gen. Erik Kurilla on Friday discussed preparations for the  potential attack .
• Warnings amid Iranian threats: France , Germany, Canada and the United States are among countries that are warning their citizens not to travel to the region due to the threat of an Iranian attack against Israel.
• Humanitarian aid: The Israeli military does not understand how humanitarian operations work, a top United Nations official said Friday, maintaining there is a "degree of mistrust" that needs to be resolved between the IDF and nongovernmental organizations on the ground in Gaza.
• Sanctions: The European Council has  adopted sanctions  against three Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad entities , in light of "their responsibilities in the brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks" that occurred across Israel on October 7. The US is also sanctioning four leaders of Hamas’ cyber and drone operations based in Gaza and Lebanon, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller announced on Friday. 

US will attempt to intercept launches at Israel if feasible, US officials say

From CNN's Oren Liebermann and Natasha Bertrand

The US will attempt to intercept any weapons launched at Israel if it’s feasible to do so, two US officials told CNN, in an indication of the level of ongoing cooperation between the two militaries before an anticipated Iranian attack .

US Navy forces in the Red Sea have previously intercepted long-range missiles launched from the Houthis in Yemen toward Israel. US forces in Iraq and Syria could also potentially intercept drones and rockets targeting northern Israel, depending on the location from which they’re launched.

Gen. Erik Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command, has been in Israel meeting with the country’s security leadership. On Friday, the Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, met with Kurilla.

There have been a number of conversations where US officials have urged Israel not to escalate the situation in retaliating against Iran, according to one of the US officials. 

Remember: An Iranian attack is expected in response to Israel’s deadly strike of Tehran's consulate in Damascus, Syria, last week.

The Damascus attack was the latest incident to stoke fears of a wider regional conflict breaking out in the Middle East during Israel's campaign in Gaza.

Diplomatic efforts: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has held a slew of calls to foreign counterparts aimed at pressuring Iran not to attack Israel.

The top US diplomat spoke with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Friday, according to a readout from State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Blinken also spoke with the Turkish, Chinese and Saudi foreign ministers in recent days, Miller said.

Israeli settlers kill at least 1 Palestinian while storming West Bank village

From CNN’s Kareem Khadder and Zeena Saifi in Jerusalem and CNN’s Benjamin Brown in London

Hundreds of armed Israeli settlers stormed a village in the occupied West Bank on Friday, setting fire to several homes and cars in one of the largest attacks by settlers this year, according to Palestinian officials. 

At least one Palestinian man was killed when shots were fired by Israeli settlers in the village of Al-Mughayyir, east of Ramallah, according to the head of the village council Amin Abu-Alia. He said he identified the killed Palestinian as his 26-year-old relative named Jihad Abu-Alia, who was meant to get married this summer.

At least 25 others were injured in the rampage, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah, the scale of which has not been seen since hundreds of settlers stormed through the villages of  Turmusayya  and  Huwara  in two separate incidents last year. 

Between 1,000 and 1,200 settlers surrounded the village, and around 500 stormed it just after midday local time on Friday, blocking all the roads in the area, Abu-Alia told CNN.

He added that Israeli security forces informed Palestinian officials that the settlers were looking for a 14-year-old Israeli boy who had gone missing earlier in the day.

They attacked the village, raided homes and fired gunshots at residents, Abu-Alia said. Videos obtained by CNN show parts of the village burning, with smoke billowing over several buildings and settlers lobbing rocks. Houses and cars are seen completely burnt up, with sounds of gunfire and clashes heard in the background.

According to Abu-Alia, the Israeli military arrived at the scene at around 3 p.m. and didn’t stop the settlers from attacking the village. Israeli soldiers allowed them to raid homes, prevented Palestinian residents from moving around and blocked ambulances from reaching the injured, he added.  

Abu-Alia told CNN settlers stole approximately 70 sheep from the Palestinian village.

In response to a question by CNN, the IDF said “violent riots were instigated in multiple locations in the area” following the search for the boy.

Israel says airstrikes targeted Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon

Israeli warplanes carried out several airstrikes on Friday, targeting "military buildings" used by Hezbollah fighters in parts of southern Lebanon, according to the Israel Defense Forces.

The areas include the Aita al-Shaab and the Taybeh in southern Lebanon, said Avichay Adraee, I DF spokesperson for Arab media,  in a post on X.

"During the day, several shells were fired from Lebanon towards the Upper Galilee region, without causing any casualties. IDF forces attacked the sources of fire," Adraee added. 

The Israeli airstrikes were before the 40 rockets that were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel Friday evening and claimed by Hezbollah.

Biden expects an attack from Iran will happen "sooner than later"

From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg

US President Joe Biden expects an attack from Iran will happen “sooner than later," he told reporters at the White House Friday.

“I don’t want to get into secure information but my expectation is sooner than later,” Biden said when asked how imminent an attack on Israel was.

Asked what his message to Tehran is right now, the president said “Don’t.”

In response to more shouted questions from reporters asking if American troops were at risk, Biden returned to the podium and said that the United States is "devoted” to the defense of Israel. 

“We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed,” Biden said.

Remember: The United States says it is on high alert for a significant Iranian retaliatory attack following Israel's deadly strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus last week, raising fears of a wider regional war. There remains a “real,” “credible” and “viable” threat of Iran launching strikes, the White House said earlier Friday, following Israel’s attack on  a diplomatic compound in Syria that killed three Iranian generals.

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

The Wandering Blonde

Solo Female Travel Blog

California , Itineraries , North America , United States · February 5, 2019

One Perfect Day in San Jose, California

Ah, San Jose. Surrounded (and overshadowed) on all sides by travel magazine-worthy destinations like San Francisco, Yosemite and Napa…you never really stood a chance, did you?

Sure, you’re the tech capital of the nation and a popular jumping off point for all sorts of California adventures…but how can you compete with iconic San Francisco and wine country to the north, wild mountain ranges to the east, and stunning stretches of coastline to the south and west?

Honestly, I do understand how many people could feel this way about San Jose…but not me.

San Jose is the 10th largest city in the United States and the largest in Northern California (yes, it’s actually bigger than San Francisco).

It was founded by the Spanish in 1777, and is now considered to be one of the most affluent cities in California, a hub of technological innovation, and the heartbeat of Silicon Valley.

Nestled in a valley surrounded by grassy hills, San Jose has a typical Mediterranean climate (meaning generally mild weather, dry summers, and wet winters). With nearly 300 sunny days per year, I truly think San Jose has some of the nicest weather in all of the United States.

Why Visit San Jose, California?

I don’t want to paint a misleading picture – San Jose is no San Francisco.

Although it’s actually the larger city, San Jose is much less dense than San Francisco, giving it a more suburban feel in many areas.

It doesn’t have a strong existing tourism presence, an abundance of time-tested itineraries, or a long list of “must see” attractions on TripAdvisor. You won’t find any sights as iconic as the Painted Ladies or as grand as the Golden Gate Bridge here in San Jose.

No, San Jose is still far under the tourism radar…so what DOES this city have to offer visitors?

San Jose is incredibly diverse, with large populations of Mexican, Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, Indian and other immigrants. It’s a true melting pot of cultures, which visitors can experience through the vibrant food scene and abundant multicultural events.

The city also has a growing craft beer presence , and is in close proximity to what Conde Nast labeled as one of “the best wine regions to visit in 2019” (the Santa Cruz Mountains).

Simply put, San Jose is up-and-coming. It’s a city with interesting stories to be told, beautiful sights to be seen, and incredible food, wine and beer to be enjoyed.

As someone who is not native to San Jose but has lived here for nearly two years, I like to think I have a unique blended insider/outsider perspective. With that said, here’s my take on how to spend one perfect day in San Jose, California:

One Day San Jose Itinerary At-a-Glance

9:00am: the breakfast club at midtown, 10:00am: municipal rose garden, 11:00am: winchester mystery house, 12:30pm: stroll down santana row, 2:00pm: choose your adventure: craft brew trail or wine tasting in the mountains, 6:00pm: dinner at san pedro square market.

Red. Velvet. Pancakes.  Need I say more?

…Okay, I should probably say more! And here it is: if I could recommend just one place for breakfast or brunch in the San Jose area, it would hands-down be The Breakfast Club at Midtown!

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Breakfast Club at Midtown (@thebreakfastclubmidtown) on Mar 24, 2018 at 1:47pm PDT

And while their red velvet pancakes (topped with cream cheese drizzle, powdered sugar, whipped cream and chocolate chips) are the absolute BOMB, the rest of their menu is pretty dang amazing, too.

I’m a big fan of their Benedicts (they have a whopping ten varieties to choose from),  but they also offer an impressive selection of scrambles, omelettes, and Mexican-inspired breakfast dishes. (Breakfast nachos? Sign me up!)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Breakfast Club at Midtown (@thebreakfastclubmidtown) on Nov 13, 2018 at 1:28pm PST

Oh, and did I mention their crepes, waffles, French toasts, mimosas, spiked coffees, and INSANE Bloody Marys and other cocktails? Just trust me on this one, guys – I KNOW my breakfast & brunch joints, and this is a good one. The best one, in fact!

(Insider tip: Arrive early in order to avoid – or at least minimize – the inevitable long wait for a table.)

After breakfast, hop in the car and drive just a mile up the road towards San Jose’s Rose Garden neighborhood .

Rose Garden is easily my favorite neighborhood in the city, and it’s easy to see why as you drive through the quiet residential streets. Historic homes dating back to the 1800s with beautifully manicured lawns are the norm here, as are towering palms that sway in the breeze.

The highlight of the area – and the destination that you’re heading for – is the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden , which has been named “America’s Best Rose Garden.”

This 5.5-acre garden features an expansive grassy lawn and more than 3,500 perfectly planted rose shrubs. It’s a gorgeous (and fragrant!) space for strolling and snapping some photos, especially if you happen to be visiting during the springtime.

You likely won’t need more than 30 minutes or so here, but I’d recommend budgeting a bit of extra time for leisurely exploring around the neighborhood.

(…or holding an impromptu photoshoot in the gardens. It happens!)

I’m not particularly superstitious; in fact, if anything, I’m a bit of sceptic.

But there’s no denying that there’s something a bit unsettling about the infamous Winchester mansion!

The legend behind the sprawling 161-room Victorian estate goes something like this: After the tragic death of her husband, Sarah Winchester – heiress to the successful Winchester rifle fortune – believed that she was being haunted by the victims of her deceased husband’s rifles.

A psychic told the widow that the only way to seek refuge from the angry spirits was to drive them away with the sounds of drills and hammers. So, she purchased an old farmhouse and began renovating it…24 hours a day, for the next 38 years.

By the time Sarah died in 1922, the Winchester estate had become a maze of confusing hallways, slanted floors, stairways that led into the ceiling, and doors and windows leading to nowhere.

Whether it was the Winchester rifle ghosts (as Sarah believed) or just the strange and unusual layout, both Derek and I felt dizzy, disoriented, and on-edge during our tour of the mansion.

We booked the standard  Mansion Tour , which is $39 for adults and lasts just over 1 hour. Tours are held every 20 minutes, beginning at 9:20am.

Although there is a good chance you will be able to walk up and purchase a ticket at the window, I do recommend booking in advance online if there’s a specific entry time you want.

Otherwise, you may end up waiting a while!

Conveniently located just across the street from the Winchester Mansion is Santana Row, one of San Jose’s most scenic and iconic shopping streets.

Personally, when I’m exploring an exciting new city I don’t like to spend too much of my precious time window-shopping at stores you can find anywhere in the world (like Lululemon, Anthropologie and Sephora).

That said, Santana Row is still unique enough that it definitely warrants a visit – even if that just means a quick stroll along the length of the street.

For one thing, it’s a truly gorgeous street! Inspired by charming European villages, Santana Row is defined by its colorful buildings, leafy trees, picturesque string lights, and abundant al fresco dining options.

Vintage Wine Bar and El Jardin Tequila Bar are my two FAVORITE spots for getting buzzed and soaking in the ambiance on Santana Row, although if you’re in the area before noon, they’ll likely won’t be open yet.

The good news is that if you’re visiting on a weekend, you might get lucky and be able to catch the monthly Makers Market event! This curated craft fair features handmade jewelry, art, soaps, candles, and other fun goodies made by more than 30 local artists. There’s usually some live music, too!

Breakfast? Done. Sightseeing? Done. Shopping? Done.

Now, it’s time to drink!

I promise I’m not a complete lush – I just truly feel that many of San Jose’s most unique and exciting activities happen to involve beer and wine.

Hear me out: How would you like to spend your day picnicking at mountaintop wineries, sipping locally-made Pinot Noirs and Zinfandels, and soaking in views of redwoods, vineyards and valleys?

Or perhaps you’d rather get a feel for San Jose’s urban atmosphere while walking, biking, or ride-sharing your way between some of the city’s coolest craft breweries?

The choice is yours – choose your boozy adventure wisely!

Option 1: San Jose Craft Beer Trail

Feelin’ thirsty? Downtown San Jose has you covered!

This city may not have the craft beer reputation of Portland or Denver (…yet!) but there’s a serious up-and-coming local brewery scene here in San Jose.

My recommendation? Put on your comfiest walking shoes or rent a bike for the day, and follow the craft brew trail through downtown!

Strike Brewing Co. & Warehouse Taproom ,  Hermitage Brewing Company ,  Santa Clara Valley Brewing ,  Clandestine Brewing , and  Uproar Brewing Company are five excellent breweries that are all within a 2.5 mile walk of each other. Make a day of it by hopping from one brewery to the next and tasting what’s on tap.

I’m also a fan of Hapa’s Brewing Company ; it’s not quite within walking distance of the other breweries, but they’ve got plenty of fun board games, food trucks are usually parked outside on weekends (tacos + craft beer = yaaaaas), and it’s dog-friendly!

What’s not to love?

Option 2: San Jose Area Wineries

Who needs to make the two hour trek north to Napa or Sonoma when you’ve got the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountain wine region just 30 minutes south of downtown San Jose?

There are more than 150 wineries nestled within these forested mountains, each offering their own unique varietals and stunning views. Some of my personal favorites are:

House Family Vineyards : Following the short quarter-mile trail through the vineyards from the parking area to the tasting room feels like journeying through a storybook setting. Once you arrive, you can choose from the indoor area, the covered patio (with fire pit tables if it’s chilly), or the outdoor area (with picnic tables and umbrellas). We’ve visited on gloomy, cold days and sunny summer days – it’s cozy and beautiful either way (and the views of the vineyards and Silicon Valley below are unreal)!

Ridge Vineyards: Monte Bello Estate :  This was the first Santa Cruz Mountain winery that Derek and I visited after moving to the Bay Area, and it was completely on a whim. All we wanted at the time was a laid-back winery with a nice picnic area and views of the Silicon Valley (check, check, and check). So imagine our surprise when we later learned that Ridge is actually globally renowned! Apparently its award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon famously beat out top French varietals in a blind taste test.

Picchetti Winery:   Free-roaming peacocks. String lights. CHOCOLATE FUDGE. Need I say more?! Unlike the other vineyards on this list, I didn’t tour Picchetti until earlier this year…and oh man, how I wish I had come sooner! In a single visit, this charming historic winery became one of my favorites. Insider tip: Choose the Port in your build-your-own tasting flight, and you’ll receive a complimentary piece of fudge to go along with it. Mmmm .

Savannah Chanelle Vineyards :  A true mountain winery, this quiet spot will make you feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of San Jose. Enjoying a tasting in the historic renovated barn, or take a seat in one of the white Adirondack chairs and soak in the views of the misty mountains and towering redwoods (with a Pinot Noir in hand, of course).

Testarossa Winery : Just 20 minutes from downtown, this elegant tasting room is actually located in a historic wine cellar! You can also drink and dine on the outdoor patio, surrounded by shady sycamore trees and equipped with umbrellas, heaters, and fire pits for all types of weather. I will say that I found the tasting to be a bit lackluster; the pours were small and there wasn’t much information provided about the vineyards or the wines, but you can’t beat the location.

See more vineyards and wineries in the San Jose area here !

Helpful Tips for Visiting the Wineries:

• All of the wineries on this list close by 4 or 5pm, which means you really need to arrive to the first winery no later than 2pm if you want a fully enjoyable experience – after all, wine tasting is not an activity that should be rushed!
• Regardless, you’ll likely only be able to visit two wineries at the most in a single afternoon. Or, you may simply prefer to pick one and spend an entire relaxing afternoon there!
• Most of the wineries do NOT offer food – not even cheese and crackers. If you’re in the mood for a picnic, I recommend stopping by a store in town to pick up some supplies before you drive into the mountains. Alternatively, stop by Mendocino Farms while you’re on Santana Row to grab tasty salads, sandwiches, and assorted deli items to-go.
• Safety first! Although the drive is short (around 30 minutes) the roads to the mountain wineries are narrow and windy, and can quickly become perilous when drinking is involved. Choose a designated driver, or take turns participating in the wine tastings to ensure someone stays sober and able to provide safe transportation.

After a long afternoon of boozing your way through downtown San Jose’s craft breweries or the Santa Cruz Mountain wineries, you’ll likely be ready to dig into some delicious local cuisine. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it in San Pedro Square Market.

In my opinion, this is one of the COOLEST areas of San Jose. Picture this: an urban public food market with more than three market halls, twenty vendors, and a massive outdoor patio filled with picnic tables, shady trees, and string lights.

Sushi? They’ve got it. Burgers? Got those too. Wood-fired pizzas, Vietnamese spring rolls, falafel? Yes, yes, and yes.

Everyone in the group can find something to eat at San Pedro Square; just step up to any one of the food counters, place your order, and then find a seat at one of the indoor or outdoor tables.

And of course, don’t forget to stop by the bar for beer or wine (available by the glass or bottle).

There’s often live music in the evenings at San Pedro Square, making it a great place to just chill and socialize for a few hours. Downtown San Jose is also a a great area to keep the party going, if you’re so inclined. Many of the city’s trendiest bars are located within just a few blocks of San Pedro Square.

…and there you have it, one PERFECT day discovering the best of San Jose! My hope is that after this visit, you’ll be as smitten with this diverse, progressive, up-and-coming city as I am 😀

Where to Stay in San Jose, California

In my opinion, one of the absolute best hotels in the San Jose area is the Hotel Valencia Santana Row . Derek and I actually planned a one-night “staycation” here for our anniversary last year – that’s how much I love this hotel!

It’s beautifully designed in an Old World European style, and is incredibly romantic. If you happen to be visiting during the summertime, the outdoor pool and rooftop bar Cielo will definitely be highlights.

If you’re able to pay a bit more for one of the Deluxe Balcony Rooms (rather than the Classic Room) I highly recommend it; propping the huge wooden doors open and soaking in the sights and sounds of lively Santana Row from the comfort of our room was one of my favorite things about staying at this hotel.

Alternatively, there are a TON of great hotel options in Downtown San Jose!

All of the following hotels are highly rated, and have excellent locations in downtown. I’ve ranked them from closest (0.2 miles) to furthest (0.6 miles) from San Pedro Square, but really you can’t go wrong with any of their locations:

• Hotel de Anza
• Fairmont San Jose
• Four Points by Sheraton San Jose
• Westin San Jose
• Hyatt Place San Jose, Downtown
• Hilton San Jose

Personally, I wouldn’t stay anywhere other than Santana Row or Downtown while visiting San Jose. They’re both interesting, fun, walkable neighborhoods that are in close proximity to everything on this itinerary.

Having a tough time deciding between the two areas?

Go for Santana Row if you’re drawn to the luxurious European-inspired design, plentiful shopping, and moderately upscale bars, restaurants and shops; opt for Downtown if you prefer to be located near the heartbeat of the city, are looking for more nightlife and trendy dining options, and don’t mind a little bit of urban grittiness.

Are you familiar with San Jose, California? Would you ever plan a trip to a city like San Jose? I’m super curious to hear what you guys have to say!

Note: This post contains several affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. My affiliate income helps offset the cost of running this blog, and allows me to keep this site free of ads and sponsored posts. So, thank you!!

More Posts You'll Love

You’ll also love.

February 6, 2019 at 3:11 am

This is super helpful. I’m based in the UK but my company has an office in San Jose so I visit sometimes. Honestly, I’ve always disliked visiting, because it seems so soulless and techy – so it’s good to hear there are some fun/interesting things to do there!

I have visited Santana Row, but that gets a bit dull on the 5th visit!

I’d maybe also add the 49ers Stadium – it’s maybe a given for Americans, but for foreigners catching a game can be a super fun experience.

February 6, 2019 at 9:27 am

Ah, I totally understand that feeling! I know there are a ton of people who visit San Jose for work, and I’m sure many of them feel the same way.

I know wineries and breweries are probably less appealing if you’re visiting on your own for work…one other suggestion (that didn’t make it onto this itinerary but it still a solid activity) would be the museums! I’ve heard really, really good things about the Egyptian Museum as well as the Tech Museum (planning to check out both soon).

There are also some great farmer’s markets in the area if you’re ever around on weekends! And kind of random, but if you’re into Japanese food or culture at all I highly recommend the Mitsuwa Marketplace. They have AMAZING matcha ice cream, and it’s also just a fun place to look around and try an overwhelming assortment of Japanese snacks 🙂

February 12, 2019 at 6:41 am

March 12, 2019 at 9:10 am

Yesss it’s definitely a more interesting city than it gets credit for!

June 12, 2019 at 7:24 pm

Real things to do in San Jose, Ca. Great America Park, big entertainment and Sharks NHL at SAP center, Levi Stadium, Happy Hollow, Children’s Discovery Museum, Emma Brush farm, Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Park Avenue, San Jose, CA; J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines 100 lenzen ave, SJ; the Pruneyard at Hamilton and Bascom, Downtown Willow for fine dining and wine, Google, eBay. And just a mile away is Downtown Campbell for dining, festivals. I dont think you’ve ever been to SJ,ca??

Santana row is overpriced and snobs.

And SJ has more homeless now than ever, up 42% from last year. It’s not a city to wonder around after a Sharks’ game.

June 13, 2019 at 6:51 am

You don’t think I’ve ever been to San Jose? Maybe I should have made it more clear that I live here…

I can appreciate your recommendations too, but for me, the activities I listed highlight the best of the city. It would be MY one perfect day in San Jose and I’m stickin’ to it 😉

By the way, I’m also working on a tech-focused guide to Silicon Valley, which will feature Google, Apple etc.

January 12, 2020 at 12:34 am

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• About Kelly
• Work With Me

Join more than 20k readers!

• Destinations
• Start a Travel Blog

Copyright © 2024 The Wandering Blonde · Theme by 17th Avenue

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products

I Packed So Many Cute Outfits for Spring Break, but Ended Up Wearing This Amazon Swim Cover-up 9 Days in a Row

And it's only $20.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Forget checking the mail or going on a grocery run. The first thing that I do when I get home from traveling is throw all of the clothes in my suitcase in the washer. But two weeks ago, when I returned from a nine-day vacation in Nicaragua , I unpacked my beloved rose gold Calpak carry-on — only to find that most of its contents were already clean. Did my luggage enjoy a visit from the elusive laundry fairies during transit? Unlikely. The real reason that I didn’t need to do an entire load was that I'd spent most of the trip wearing the same sexy little number .

In 2020, I bought the Wander Agio Beach Cover-up , which was trending at Amazon at the time. I loved it so much that I wanted it in another color for my Central American sojourn, where I’d be beach hopping at Rancho Santana and socializing poolside at Verdad Nicaragua . Unfortunately, it was (and still is) unavailable. But, I was able to find something similar just in time: the Harhay Crochet Swimsuit  Cover-Up . If you appreciate affordability and comfort, and don’t mind fielding questions from other travelers about where you got it, it’s one of the best swimsuit cover-ups out there. 

Harhay Crochet Swimsuit Cover-up

Yes, it’s 100 percent polyester. But this $20 top-seller doesn’t look cheap. It could easily pass as a $200 hand-crocheted piece that you’d expect to find in a chic boutique. On that note, the only thing I don’t like about this cover-up is that it’s hand-wash-only (to prevent stretching and snagging). Still, dirt and sand shake off of it easily, so you get plenty of wear time in between washes. In Nicaragua, I wore it all day, rinsed it off in the shower (and in the hotel sink), hung it up to dry on my balcony, and by the next morning, it was always good to go.

Katie Jackson

Although I got this cover-up in black, I never overheated — even on 90-degree Fahrenheit days — because of its lightweight, breathable crochet fabric. Yet, at the same time, it provided enough coverage that I didn’t get sun-burned or feel too exposed; you can also wear shorts and a tank underneath the cover-up (think: like a poncho or kimono) if you're headed to lunch, drinks, or going on a stroll. And unlike the stiff rope hammock souvenirs that I shopped for, it’s super soft. That was probably the number one reason why I always reached for it during my trip. Of course, I was also a fan of how flattering it looked. Shout out to the designer who somehow managed to create something equal parts casual, comfortable, and cute. 

The Harhay Crochet Swimsuit Cover-up currently comes in 31 colors, including some fun multi-color options that are perfect for beach getaways. It’s also available in several different patterns and styles; some even have decorative laces on the neckline . The drawstring side tassels, however, are what make this one-size-fits-all piece work well for so many different body types. I love to go with the flowy look, but when I want to highlight my hourglass waist, I just tighten the tassels. I’m 5-foot, 5 inches with a slim build, and about 115 pounds. However, I read rave reviews from shoppers of all sizes. Hence, why this cover-up has more than 17,400 five-star ratings (and was bought more than 1,000 times in the last month, according to Amazon). 

It was called "absolutely flattering" by a 5-foot, 2 inch shopper , who shared that they have a "big chest and hips." Chiming in, another shopper , who is 5-foot, 6 inches and 215 pounds, said that they were “so glad I ordered this cover-up" and that they will "live in this during the cruise we are going on in December.”

Taking a cue from my style book, a third traveler raved that it was "very soft and comfortable" to wear this cover-up with shorts on their trip to Jamaica, and another shopper highlighted that their "favorite part is that the back is slightly longer than the front, so I was able to wear it around the condo during our vacation without shorts or anything else because I felt adequately covered." 

Currently, I’m traveling around Cairns, Australia. My checked luggage didn’t make it — I blame the tight connection in Brisbane — but I’m not complaining because, as I learned from my last trip, I packed this cover-up in my carry-on. From breakfast in bougie Palm Cove, to a sunset cruise on the Great Barrier Reef (and all the day’s activities in between), it’s all I need. 

That said, you don’t have to travel all the way to Nicaragua or Tropical North Queensland to appreciate the Harhay Crochet Swimsuit Cover-up . Even if you’re just going to the nearest beach for a three-day weekend, it’s well worth it. And if you’re not sure about the look, but you love the price, keep scrolling to check out some other popular bathing suit cover-ups all Amazon, all under $50. 

More Swim Cover-ups at Amazon:

Anrabess crochet swimsuit cover-up, blooming jelly drawstring beach dress shirt, ekouaer bell-sleeve swimsuit cover-up, avidlove v-neck swimsuit cover-up dress, bsubseach tie-dye open-front swimsuit cover-up.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $20. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

• Christmas Day

Christmas Day Tables

454 restaurants open for christmas day in san jose.

How are Featured results ranked

• Dining Rewards
• Private Dining
• Reserve for Others
• Restaurants Near Me
• Delivery Near Me
• Restaurants Open Now
• OpenTable for iOS
• OpenTable for Android
• Affiliate Program
• OpenTable.jp
• OpenTable.de
• OpenTable.es
• OpenTable.ca
• OpenTable.hk
• OpenTable.ie
• OpenTable.sg
• OpenTable.nl
• OpenTable.com.mx
• OpenTable.co.uk
• OpenTable.com.au
• OpenTable.ae
• OpenTable.co.th
• OpenTable.it
• OpenTable.com.tw
• OpenTable.fr
• Restaurant reservation software
• Industry insights
• Hospitality resources
• Marketing resources
• Operation resources
• How to open a restaurant
• For restaurants
• For restaurant groups
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Cookie Preferences

Itineraries

Experience San Jose like a local while still visiting the most popular tourist attractions. These travel itineraries will help you make the most of your visit, no matter how long you’re here.

Sip and Cycle Adventure

Urban pathway turns scenic mountain trail with rewards of savory food and fantastic wine.

Craft Brew Blitz

Art and Entertainment

Hike and Wine Adventures

15 Places to See in Northern California

Monterey Bay Day Trip

Santa Cruz Day Trip

San Jose History Tour

48 Hours in San Jose

Couples Weekend Getaway

Wear your san jose pride.

We're partnering with local shop Headliners for a fresh line of merch. Get your white logo tee in black here , and look out for more to come. Plus, sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive updates, events, discounts and giveaways right in your inbox!

• Tour Account ›
• Travel Forum ›
• Travel Forum
• Florence - Uffizi...

Florence - Uffizi Membership -- Amici Degli Uffizi

Ciao Florence museum visitors - I have joined the "Friends of the Uffizi" - Amici Degli Uffizi. I have been told that the membership card allows me unlimited AND reservationless entry to the Uffizi and over 20 other museums run by the Florence government including Galleria dell'Accademia. Has anyone else purchased / used this membership? Grazie, Lou B.

How much was it?

60 euros individual 100 euros family. http://www.amicidegliuffizi.it/become_a_member.aspx

What does it mean when it says that membership gets you: Free entrance to the Gallery and the State Museums in Florence (4 people each 15 minutes)

I used the card last year and I think it is a fantastic deal, especially as I often like to visit a museum more than once - last September I went to the Uffizi three times (the third time just to say goodbye to Botticelli!). Over the space of four times I think I would have spent between 80-100€ on entrance fees and reservations. You walk straight into the museums and bypass the queues/lines. You need to carry a photo ID so that the card cannot be passed/sold onto somebody else. The card is valid for a calendar year (whenever you buy it, it expires on 31st December of that year) so is even better value if you visit Florence more than once in the year (not too likely for visitors from the US/Canada I appreciate, but great for us English!) So, to sum up, you save lots of cash, you don't have to stand in line for up to 90 minutes (!) to get into the Uffizi or Accademia and you can go back for another visit the next day if you wish. The card does not cover the main churches, like Santa Croce, San Lorenzo or Santa Maria Novella, all of which are 'must sees', but covers amongst others The Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, the fantastic Bargello museum, the Medici chapels, San Marco and others This is the link for their site : http://www.amicidegliuffizi.it/en_welcome_desk.aspx . If anyone would like more information on this or Florence in general, feel free to send a private message.

Hi Chris - Thanks so much for your post confirming the super value of Amici Degli Uffizi. I'll take you up on your offer and send you a private message on other topics related to our upcoming trip. Thanks again, Lou

Hello, I've just purchased the above. Do you remember how long it took for the membership cards to arrive in the post?

Hi Bec - It took about 2 weeks. You can also purchase them at the museum without standing in the entrance line. (see below) The lady who is in charge, Luminita Cristescu, was most helpful and spoke English very well. The following was part of her e-mail "signature": WELCOME DESK Entrance "2" - Galleria degli Uffizi - Firenze Open Tues. – Sat. 10am – 5pm. Tel. +39 055 285610 Email :  [email protected] We found the pass to be well worth it; we were in Florence a total of 9 days and made multiple trips to the Uffizi and Accademia, as well as some of the other museums on the card. Ciao, Lou B.

For anyone who has purchased this membership - did you receive an email confirmation when you completed your reservation? We will be in Florence Dec 25-31 but the Welcome Desk will be closed at that time so we can not purchase the membership on sight and lack the time for it to be mailed to us currently. We are thinking of emailing the welcome desk and asking if a confirmation of the online purchase would be sufficient.

For those who may consider this - I did email the Welcome Desk and they said that you must have the card in your possession and the confirmation of purchase of membership is not sufficient. So, allow time for your card to arrive or confirm the Welcome Desk will be open.

Before more people reply to this one note that the thread is from August 2011 and has been piggybacked.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.