River & Rowing Museum, Henley-on-Thames
Discover Henley’s rich rowing heritage and riverside culture in this architecturally stunning museum beside the Thames.
Set on the banks of the River Thames in Henley-on-Thames, the River & Rowing Museum celebrates the rich heritage of rowing and the river's cultural impact. Housed in a striking oak-clad building designed by David Chipperfield, it features engaging galleries on rowing history, the River Thames, and the arts, including a unique Wind in the Willows walk-through experience for families. Though currently closed to the public, the museum continues its educational outreach beyond its walls.
A brief summary to River & Rowing Museum
- River & Rowing Museum, Henley-on-Thames, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 1BF, GB
- +441491415600
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum’s official website or contact them directly for the latest updates on reopening and educational programs.
- Explore the Wind in the Willows walk-through experience, especially if visiting with children, for an enchanting interactive adventure.
- Combine your visit with a scenic walk along the nearby Thames Path to enjoy the riverside atmosphere.
- Plan for 1–2 hours to explore the galleries and exhibitions fully when the museum reopens.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From London Paddington, take a Great Western Railway train to Twyford (about 25 minutes), then transfer to a local train to Henley-on-Thames (approximately 20 minutes). The museum is a 15-minute walk from the Henley-on-Thames station. Tickets cost around £15-£25 GBP one way depending on time and booking.
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Car
Driving from central London takes about 1.5 hours via the M4 and A404. The museum offers limited parking, and nearby public parking options exist but can fill quickly on weekends. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 per hour.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Henley town center with surrounding villages. From the town center, the museum is a 15-minute walk along the Thames Path. Bus fares typically cost £2-£5 GBP depending on route and operator.
River & Rowing Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about River & Rowing Museum
A Celebration of Rowing and River Heritage
Nestled beside the scenic River Thames in Henley-on-Thames, the River & Rowing Museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of rowing and life on the river. Since its opening in 1998, it has amassed a collection exceeding 35,000 artefacts, ranging from small rowing memorabilia to full-size boats, preserving the legacy of this iconic British sport and the river that sustains it.Architectural Elegance and Artistic Highlights
The museum’s striking oak-clad structure was designed by award-winning architect David Chipperfield, blending modern architectural sensibilities with a natural riverside setting. Inside, visitors find the UK's only gallery dedicated to the work of John Piper, a prolific British artist whose river-themed works add an artistic dimension to the museum’s narrative.Engaging Exhibitions for All Ages
Permanent galleries explore Henley’s rowing history and the River Thames’ broader significance, while the Wind in the Willows walk-through experience enchants families and children with immersive storytelling. Temporary exhibitions rotate regularly, further enriching the visitor experience with fresh perspectives on river life, rowing, and related arts.A Hub for Education and Community Engagement
Though the museum closed its doors to the public in September 2025 due to financial challenges, it remains committed to education through workshops and outreach programs beyond the physical site. These initiatives continue to inspire and educate new generations about rowing, river ecology, and local heritage.Amenities and Visitor Experience
Before closure, the museum featured a bright café with river views, a well-stocked shop, and accessible facilities designed to welcome visitors of all ages and abilities. Its location near Henley town center and the train station made it a convenient stop for day-trippers and rowing enthusiasts alike.Future Prospects and Legacy
The museum’s trustees are actively exploring options for the building’s future use, aiming to preserve its collections responsibly and maintain its role as a cultural landmark. The story of the River & Rowing Museum is evolving, with a steadfast commitment to safeguarding Henley’s rowing heritage and river culture for years to come.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
