The Thames Path is a long distance walking trail, following England's best known river for 185 miles (294 km) as it meanders from its source in the Cotswolds through several rural counties and on into the heart of London. While walking the Thames Path you will pass peaceful water meadows rich in wildlife, historic towns and cities and many lovely villages, finishing in Woolwich just a few miles from the sea.
From the source of the Thames in Thames Head, near Kemble in the Cotswolds the trail wanders through pastures and small Cotswold villages characterised by creamy stonework buildings with stone slate roofs. As well as miles of rural walking you’ll also pass through towns and cities including Oxford, Reading, Henley-on-Thames, Windsor and of course, London while walking the Thames Path.
There are a number of nature reserves along the trail, all worth exploring. Don’t miss the wildflowers at North Meadow National Nature Reserve near Cricklade, Chimney Meadows near Abingdon for its ancient landscape and wading birds, the carpet of snake's head fritillary at Iffley Meadows near Oxford or the rare Loddon lily at Cholsey Marsh Nature Reserve.
You’ll be in your element when walking the Thames Path if you’re interested in history and architecture – don’t miss the 13th century Church of St John the Baptist at Inglesham, Hampton Court Palace - the home of Henry VIII, Strawberry Hill House, a Gothic Revival villa in Twickenham and Ham House, one of the grandest Stuart houses in England.
Other highlights include the enchanting landscaped gardens at Buscot Park, William Morris's Cotswold retreat, Kelmscott Manor, the site of the sealing of Magna Carta 800 years ago at Runnymede, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and the iconic parks and bridges of London.
How long does it take to walk the Thames Path?
As a guide, using roughly 15 miles/24 km a day as an average daily walking distance, walking the Thames Path can be completed in 14 days allowing for a couple of days’ rest. However it’s important to walk at the pace that suits you, allowing time for exploring and relaxing, and there is no pressure to do it quickly. The Thames Path is there for you to enjoy, and doesn’t have to be a route march! You don’t have to walk it all in one go of course, you can dip in for half or a full day’s walk or complete one section at a time.
How difficult is the Thames Path?
The Thames Path is a gentle Trail, suitable for people with a wide range of abilities. It is mainly flat, with just a few natural slopes. In some places it can be accessed by people with limited mobility such as users of wheelchairs or mobility scooters, parents with pushchairs or those using a walking stick.
Which direction should I walk the Thames Path in?
Walking the Thames Path is commonly completed from West to East, starting at the source of the River Thames in the Cotswolds and walking towards London. This is because the prevailing wind is from the southwest so walking in this direction means the wind is behind you.
If you do start at the source of the Thames and head east you’ll initially find yourself meandering through the relatively quiet and remote rural landscape that surrounds the upper reaches of the Thames as far as Oxford. Downstream of Oxford as the river grows wider you’ll increasingly encounter villages, small market towns and larger settlements, with your final destination being one of the world’s greatest and most thriving cities, London. Walking in the other direction, you’ll move from the dynamism and bustle of London into gradually quieter and less busy countryside.
There are guidebooks written in both directions - the Aurum and Trailblazer books are written from west to east and the Cicerone book is written in the opposite direction, starting in London and ending at the source of the River Thames.
Who can enjoy the Thames Path?
The Thames Path has been developed for walkers and most of the trail is a public footpath which cyclists and horse riders are not permitted to use.
There are some sections of the trail open to cyclists including 5.4 miles (8.7 km) through Oxford and 5.8 miles (9.4 Km) from Weybridge to Hampton Court. Cyclists wanting a long-distance ride should consider the Thames Valley Cycle Route, a 97-mile (155km) route from London to Oxford that in places shares the same route as the Thames Path.
Can I bring my dog on the Thames Path?
Your dog is welcome on the Thames Path, but please make sure it’s fit enough to do as much walking as you. When on the Trail your dog must always be under close control to prevent it from disturbing livestock or wildlife.
What is the best time of year to walk the Thames Path?
The best months for walking the Thames Path are spring through to the end of autumn since during winter the Thames is prone to flooding, particularly upstream of Oxford.
If you’re interested in wildlife there are always a range of birds present on and around the river but they’re at their most active and visible during April and May whilst establishing territories and finding mates. If you’re keen on wildflowers, then April to September is the best time to visit, and if insects such as butterflies, damselflies and dragonflies are the things you’d most like to see, choose June to September.
Can I buy Thames Path merchandise?
We sell a range of Thames Path merchandise including sew on badges, enamel badges, mugs and other merchandise.
Can I get a Thames Path National Trail completion certificate?
Our personalised Thames Path certificate is a great momento for anyone that has completed the trail.