The Majestic River Thames: A Journey Through Time
Discover the enchanting River Thames, a historic waterway flowing through London, offering scenic views, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural experiences.
The River Thames, a historic and breathtaking waterway, flows gracefully through the heart of England. Tourists can enjoy scenic walks, iconic landmarks, and diverse wildlife along its banks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring London and beyond.
A brief summary to River Thames
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Local tips
- Visit during sunset for stunning views and photo opportunities.
- Take a river cruise to see the city from a unique perspective.
- Explore the South Bank for food, entertainment, and cultural venues.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially swans and ducks.
- Check for seasonal events and festivals along the river.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in central Oxford, make your way to the High Street. From there, head towards Magdalen Bridge and cross it. After crossing the bridge, you will see the River Thames on your left. Follow the pathway along the riverbank, and you will be able to enjoy a scenic walk while heading towards the River Thames.
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Public Transport
Take bus number 5 from the Gloucester Green Bus Station towards Abingdon. Alight at the 'Thames Street' stop. From there, walk down Thames Street until you reach the riverbank. The River Thames will be right in front of you.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bicycle from one of the local hire shops in the city centre. Head towards St Aldate's Street, then follow the signs for the Oxford Cycle Route towards the river. You will reach the River Thames via the cycle paths that run alongside the river.
Discover more about River Thames
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Virgin Experience Days
1.9 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Maidenhead Railway Bridge
4.7 km
A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.
Burning Bush
9.8 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Sydney Camm Memorial
10.2 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
10.6 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
10.6 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
The Curfew Tower
10.7 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Queen Victoria Statue
10.8 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
10.8 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
10.8 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
King Edward III Tower
10.9 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
10.9 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
11.0 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
Ancient well
11.0 km
A humble medieval water source steeped in Windsor's royal heritage and local legend.
Soldier's Statue
11.0 km
A solemn tribute to Irish Guardsmen, this statue in Windsor honors military service amidst a rich historic townscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cliveden House
0.7 km
A storied Italianate mansion overlooking the Thames, where centuries of glamour and intrigue unfold across 376 acres of magnificent gardens.
National Trust - Cliveden
0.8 km
Explore Cliveden’s majestic gardens, historic house, and woodlands on a grand Thames Valley estate rich in heritage and natural beauty.
The Stanley Spencer Gallery
1.0 km
Discover the world’s largest collection of Stanley Spencer’s art in the charming village that inspired his visionary works.
Cock Marsh
2.1 km
Discover Cock Marsh, a tranquil riverside nature reserve blending rare wildlife habitats with ancient Bronze Age burial mounds in scenic Berkshire.
Odds Farm Park
2.6 km
Discover hands-on animal encounters, outdoor adventures, and giant indoor play at Odds Farm Park, a family favorite near High Wycombe.
Ray Mill Island
3.2 km
Discover peaceful riverside walks, wildlife, and family-friendly charm at Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead’s scenic Thames corridor.
Boulters Lock
3.4 km
Historic Thames lock and serene riverside gardens offering scenic boat watching, wildlife, and a vibrant pub atmosphere in Maidenhead.
Maidenhead Heritage Centre
4.9 km
Explore Maidenhead’s rich local history and wartime aviation legacy at the welcoming Heritage Centre on Park Street.
Marlow Lock
5.2 km
Historic lock and weir on the River Thames offering scenic riverside walks and a glimpse into centuries of river navigation heritage.
Grenfell Park
5.3 km
A historic community park in Maidenhead with playgrounds, sports courts, outdoor gym, café, and scenic green spaces for all ages.
Higginson Park
5.7 km
A vibrant riverside park in Marlow offering family fun, leisure sports, scenic river views, and year-round community events.
Higginson Park and Court Garden Leisure Complex
5.7 km
A historic riverside park in Marlow blending natural beauty, leisure facilities, and family-friendly activities along the iconic Thames Path.
Marlow Museum
5.7 km
Discover Marlow’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits and passionate volunteer storytelling in a charming riverside setting.
Braywick Nature Centre
6.3 km
Discover Braywick Nature Centre, a peaceful haven blending heritage, wildlife, and immersive environmental learning in the heart of Maidenhead.
Bekonscot Model Village & Railway
6.5 km
Step into the world’s oldest model village and railway, where 1930s rural England comes alive in exquisite miniature detail across 1.5 acres of gardens.
Essential places to dine
The Cliveden Dining Room
0.7 km
Experience refined British fine dining in the historic grandeur of Cliveden House, set amidst breathtaking gardens near London.
The Ivy Marlow Garden
5.7 km
Elegant British dining with Art Deco charm and a diverse menu on Marlow's historic High Street, perfect for special occasions and leisurely meals.
Bespoke Restaurants
5.8 km
Elegant dining in Beaconsfield’s historic Old Rectory, where bespoke cuisine meets timeless charm.
Vanilla Pod
5.9 km
Cozy Anglo-French dining in historic Marlow, blending refined flavors with literary heritage and exceptional service.
The Waterside Inn
6.0 km
Experience timeless French haute cuisine and riverside elegance at The Waterside Inn, Bray’s iconic three-Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel.
The Hinds Head
6.1 km
A Michelin-starred British pub in Bray blending traditional charm with Heston Blumenthal’s innovative culinary artistry.
The Fat Duck
6.2 km
Experience a groundbreaking, theatrical tasting journey at The Fat Duck, where culinary science meets nostalgic storytelling in a historic Bray inn.
King & Lamb Restaurant
8.4 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house setting with superb roasts, vegan options, and a tranquil garden atmosphere.
The Restaurant at Danesfield House
9.0 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house with stunning views of the Thames and Chiltern Hills near Marlow.
GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
9.3 km
South African-inspired dining with stunning marina views at Windsor Racecourse Marina, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse
9.3 km
Experience luxury dining with panoramic racecourse views at The Castle Restaurant, where thrilling horse racing meets elegant cuisine in Windsor.
The Greene Oak
9.5 km
A charming Windsor gastropub blending traditional British pub warmth with seasonal, market-fresh cuisine and stylish dining.
The Three Oaks
10.2 km
A Michelin Bib Gourmand gastropub blending modern British cuisine with Asian flair in a charming Tudor-style setting.
Test Kitchen Food
10.3 km
Innovative, fresh, and vibrant dining at Windsor’s Test Kitchen Food in a unique brewery tap setting.
Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse
10.4 km
Elegant modern British dining and boutique lodging in the heart of historic Eton, just steps from Windsor Castle.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
4.9 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
John Lewis & Partners
8.1 km
A trusted British department store blending quality, style, and service in the heart of High Wycombe’s Cressex Centre.
Ruby Moon
8.3 km
Explore the mystical world of crystals and unique gifts at Ruby Moon, High Wycombe’s beloved metaphysical emporium since 1998.
Gifts Box
10.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gifts Box, the charming gift shop in Windsor, perfect for your memorable keepsakes.
Purple Gifts
10.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Wellington 1895 Antiques Windsor
10.6 km
Centuries of curated treasures in Windsor's most distinguished antique shop.
Middle Ward Shop
10.6 km
Royal souvenirs and gifts within Windsor Castle's historic Middle Ward.
Jigsaw
10.6 km
Discover timeless style and quality craftsmanship at Jigsaw, Windsor's boutique for elegant ladies' fashion and unique statement pieces.
Windsor Yards
10.6 km
A vibrant shopping destination blending modern retail with Windsor’s historic charm and community spirit.
Piara
10.7 km
Explore Windsor's charm at Piara Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
A P Souvenirs & Gifts
10.7 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at A P Souvenirs & Gifts, your convenient stop near Windsor Castle for memorable keepsakes.
H&M
10.7 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for men, women, and children in the heart of historic Windsor’s King Edward Court.
Oliver Bonas
10.7 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Oliver Bonas, nestled in the heart of Windsor Yards Shopping Centre.
Whistles
10.7 km
Upscale ladies’ fashion boutique set within the historic charm of Windsor Royal Station, blending contemporary style with Victorian elegance.
Mint Velvet Windsor
10.7 km
Discover relaxed glamour and timeless women's fashion at Mint Velvet Windsor, your stylish boutique in Windsor Royal Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Boathouse at Boulters Lock
3.3 km
Riverside gastropub on Boulters Lock Island offering seasonal British cuisine, stunning river views, and a warm, stylish atmosphere.
Off The Tap
5.0 km
Lively Maidenhead pub offering craft beers, tasty pub fare, and vibrant events in a welcoming, fun atmosphere.
The Old Brewery
5.6 km
A vibrant Marlow pub with great beers, lively sports screens, and welcoming service for all occasions.
The Oarsman, Marlow
5.8 km
Sophisticated gastropub in Marlow blending seasonal British cuisine, curated wines, and warm hospitality in a stylish setting.
The Treehouse
5.9 km
A vibrant bar in Beaconsfield known for quality cocktails, friendly service, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Botanist Marlow
5.9 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Marlow, alive with seasonal menus, inventive cocktails, and vibrant live music every weekend.
The Royal Standard of England
6.4 km
Step into England’s oldest freehouse, where 900 years of royal history, ghostly legends, and timeless ale await in a charming rural setting.
The Snug Bar High Wycombe
8.3 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in High Wycombe offering over 100 fresh cocktails, lively atmosphere, and great happy hour deals in a spacious, stylish setting.
The Hit or Miss
10.1 km
A cozy country pub in Amersham offering hearty British fare and friendly service in a charming village setting.
Milaanj at The Beehive Pub & Restaurant
10.3 km
Discover Milaanj at The Beehive: a rustic village pub in White Waltham serving exquisite British-Indian fusion cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
La planchette
10.6 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Royal Windsor
10.6 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
Upstairs Windsor
10.6 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
10.6 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
All Bar One Windsor
10.6 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Diligence
6.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
8.3 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Venue, Bucks
8.3 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Boom
10.7 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
10.7 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
10.7 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
10.8 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
Winkers Nightclub
11.7 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
The Binfield Club
16.1 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
21.9 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Q Club
22.5 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Reading Lola Lo
22.7 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Popworld - Reading
22.7 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Gun Street Garden
22.8 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Popworld Watford
22.9 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.