Thames Path
The Thames Path National Trail follows the greatest river in England for 185 miles from its trickling source just outside Kemble in the rural Cotswolds to its vast presence at the Thames Barrier, just a few miles before it meets the sea.
This river, once vital to trade, helped grow England’s capital to the size it is. As railways and roads took over, this great trading route started to fall into decline. Discussions started back in the 1930s about how they could put the old Thames tow path to use but it was not until after further discussions, and with the help of many groups of people, including the Ramblers Association and the River Thames Society, that 16 miles of new tow path was built and the Thames Path became a fully opened National Trail in 1996.
The route boasts tranquil water meadows, fabulous wildlife and wildflowers, quaint villages, historic market towns, gothic towers, cities and many locks.
You will see the river grow and change as the walk progresses. Watch the herons, ducks and swans as the river flows by, and see the many rowers and pleasure boats at Windsor, Eton and Henley. You can add rest days to allow you to explore Oxford and Windsor Castle, or add a day to visit Kew Botanical Gardens.
Our Holidays
We offer a range of walking holidays along the Thames path, from a two day short break to a three week walk along the entire length of the trail.
In addition to walking the 185 miles from its source in Kemble to its conclusion at the Thames Barrier just beyond Greenwich, we have divided the trail into four more manageable sections allowing you to comfortably complete the route over a few holidays.
The first of these is the 55 mile western section from Kemble to Oxford. Then comes the 59 mile central section from Oxford to Marlow. Followed by the eastern section, 44 miles from Marlow to Richmond upon Thames. Finally we have the 27 mile London section from Richmond upon Thames to Greenwich.
Please bear in mind that the distances each day are trail distances only. They do not take into account walking to your accommodation. On some days the accommodation might be on or close to the trail but on other days you may need to walk one or two miles to get to your overnight stop.
Our colleague Mark has walked from Oxford to Westminster on the Thames Path. Read Mark’s blogs Reflections on the River Thames and Return to the River Thames
Thames Path
Kemble to Greenwich 185 miles/298 km
We offer 3 itineraries covering the Thames Path from its source to the Thames Barrier. The 12 day option has a few longer days and is great for experienced walkers with a good level of fitness. The 14 day walk is a suitable option for most regular walkers, the daily distances allow you the time to look around the towns along the way and enjoy the views. Finally the 20 day walk is for those with plenty of time who want to savour the countryside and complete the route at a gentle pace.
The Thames Path National Trail ends at the Thames Barrier. From here, you will take a bus the short distance back to Greenwich for your final night's accommodation.
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP13 | 12 days walking (13 nights) | 15 miles/24 km | $2779 - $3216 | Full Info Book |
| TP15 | 14 days walking (15 nights) | 13 miles/21 km | $3178 - $3688 | Full Info Book |
| TP21 | 20 days walking (21 nights) | 9 miles/14 km | $4332 - $5060 | Full Info Book |
Thames Path West: Kemble to Oxford
Kemble to Oxford 55 miles/89 km
We offer 2 itineraries on the western section of the walk from Kemble to Oxford. Choose from 4 or 5 days walking. The 4 day option does have one fairly lengthy day of 17 miles which will limit the time you have to stop and savour the lovely scenery around you..
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TPW5 | 4 days walking (5 nights) | 14 miles/23 km | $890 - $1036 | Full Info Book |
| TPW6 | 5 days walking (6 nights) | 11 miles/18 km | $1115 - $1297 | Full Info Book |
Thames Path Central: Oxford to Marlow
Oxford to Marlow 59 miles/95 km
We offer 2 itineraries on the central section of the Thames Path starting in Oxford and finishing in Marlow. Choose from 4 or 6 days walking. The 4 day option has an 18 mile day so you need to have a good level of fitness to complete this walk. The 6 day option takes things easier and allows you time to enjoy the river and the historic towns along the way.
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TPC5 | 4 days walking (5 nights) | 15 miles/24 km | $1007 - $1153 | Full Info Book |
| TPC7 | 6 days walking (7 nights) | 10 miles/16 km | $1337 - $1556 | Full Info Book |
Thames Path East: Marlow to Richmond upon Thames
Marlow to Richmond upon Thames 44 miles/71 km
We offer 2 itineraries on the eastern section of the Thames Path. Choose from 3 or 5 days walking. Starting in Marlow and finishing in Richmond upon Thames, with Eton and Windsor in the middle, there is plenty to see and do on this part of the walk. You might consider adding a rest day in Windsor to look around Windsor Castle, or one at the end in Richmond to allow you the time to visit the nearby Kew Botanical Gardens.
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TPE4 | 3 days walking (4 nights) | 14 miles/23 km | $799 - $908 | Full Info Book |
| TPE6 | 5 days walking (6 nights) | 9 miles/14 km | $1236 - $1418 | Full Info Book |
Thames Path London: Richmond upon Thames to Greenwich
Richmond upon Thames to Greenwich 27 miles/43 km
We offer 2 itineraries on the London section of the Thames Path. Choose from 2 or 3 days walking, starting in Richmond upon Thames and finishing at the Thames Barrier, the end point of this charming National Trail. There’s plenty of historical interest on this part of the walk, not least of all the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London.
The Thames Path National Trail ends at the Thames Barrier. From here, you will take a bus the short distance back to Greenwich for your final night's accommodation.
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TPL3 | 2 days walking (3 nights) | 14 miles/23 km | $705 - $778 | Full Info Book |
| TPL4 | 3 days walking (4 nights) | 9 miles/14 km | $984 - $1093 | Full Info Book |