The River Thames

What better way to escape everyday stress than messing about on a boat on the river? If you have a day, a week or just a few hours, you can unwind and discover the hidden treasures of the River Thames.

Starting from our marina base at Bray you can set off to cruise the River Thames, one of the most beautiful waterways in Europe. Meander up or downstream wherever the mood takes you enjoying the change of pace as you go.

Locks on the River Thames

The first proper locks appeared in the 1630s. Each one has its own individual history and unique personality.

A lock is a large chamber, built across the stream, with large gates at either end that hold back the water. Boats can enter the lock at one level, the gates shut behind and the lock then fills or empties of water until the boat has reached the next level on the river. As part of your initial training you will be taken through a lock.

Lock keepers on the Thames are generally available between 9am and 6pm during the summer season and take their lunch 1-2pm.

Fishing on the River Thames

Think angling heaven, think River Thames – a haven for some of the best coarse fishing in the country and home to over 25 species of fish

Whether you’re a serious match angler, a specimen hunter or simply a pleasure angler, the River Thames has it all from roach and perch to barbel and chub with pike and carp too!

You will need a rod fishing license issued by the Environment Agency to fish with a rod and line on the River Thames. Once you have your rod license you can use a club boat to take advantage of some of the best fishing sites along the River Thames only accessible by boat.

Food & Drink on the River Thames

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or want to relax and enjoy a hearty meal, the River Thames is the place to go.

Mediterranevm at Bray

Mediterranevm in Bray is a riverside dining experience offering exceptional Mediterranean dining at Bray Marina

Roux at Skindles

A traditional French brasserie-style menu with a little drop of Alain Roux magic makes this an ideal place to come and enjoy some great food

The Waterside Inn

Alain Roux's 3 Michelin Star restaurant with rooms on the banks of the River Thames in Bray, and home to his eponymous Culinary School.

The Boathouse at Boulters Lock

Situated on its very own island is Maidenhead’s finest al fresco dining and drinking spot offering classic gastropub favourites to modern, healthy dishes

The Fat Duck

Heston Blumenthal's renowned temple to innovative Modern British cuisine, with a fixed-price menu.

Hall & Woodhouse Taplow

Ideal for a leisurely Sunday roast, a stunning special occasion meal, or simply some tempting small plates and a drink.

Windsor

There are plenty of fantastic things to do on a visit to the Windsor area, whatever the time of year and whoever you are travelling with.
The huge castle dates from 1066. During successive centuries it grew in importance to attain the proportions and magnificence of a royal palace. Open, with few exceptions, throughout the year. Today it is the largest inhabited castle in the world.

Cliveden

Renowned as the home of the Astor family during a 50-year period from 1893. The property is now a luxury hotel, some parts of which are open to the public at weekends.
The gardens, formal and otherwise, are magnificent and open daily throughout the season. A National Trust property

Runnymede

Standing at the foot of the Cooper’s Hill slopes is a memorial to the Magna Carta, sealed at Runnymede Meadows beside the Thames, on 15 June 1215 by King John. Nearby the John F Kennedy Memorial stands in its own acre of land, given by the people of Britain to the USA, honouring the memory of the assassinated President. A little piece of America by the Thames. And, atop Cooper’s Hill, the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial commemorating the men and women of the Commonwealth Air Forces killed in World War II, who have no known grave.

Places to visit on the River Thames

Eton

This historic town has so much to offer visitors – Eton is immersed in history and fascinating architecture with the world famous College buildings. Founded in 1440 by Henry VI, the College still has several of its original buildings in use. The Chapel, School Yard and cloisters are open most afternoons.

The pretty High Street is packed with restaurants, small independent cafés, bars and a host of characterful, traditional pubs.

Marlow

This attractive town on the River Thames offers both tranquil riverside walks and a centre vibrant with fantastic shops, restaurants, pubs and cafes. Situated on a beautiful stretch of the River Thames.
Marlow is rich in history, reflected in its Georgian and Victorian architecture, and is a popular tourist destination with its pretty High Street, parks and gardens

Maidenhead

Maidenhead boasts excellent leisure facilities including an Odeon cinema, and the brand new Braywick Leisure Centre.

If you enjoy the outdoors, Maidenheads' 18th-century road bridge and Brunel’s famous ‘Sounding Arch’ featured in Turner's painting of ‘Rain, Steam and Speed’.

Boulter’s Lock which was immortalised in Gregory’s 19th-century painting boasts a restaurant and bar whilst Raymill Island remains a firm favourite with its aviary, beautiful gardens and great views of Maidenhead weir.

Riverside gardens is very popular with families with its extensive lawns, park and crazy golf, all completed with a visit to Jenner’s café.