The Thames Path National Trail - summer magazine 2024
The Thames Path National Trail Summer Magazine 2024
Kindly
Welcome!
Welcome to the second issue of the Thames Path National Trail Magazine. This issue has pages filled with fascinating articles about our beautiful National Trail and the businesses which flourish around its banks.
Our feature story is about the flooding we have encountered on the trail in recent months – the wettest 18-month period recorded in UK history!
For those of you new to the Thames Path National Trail, it is a path that follows our great River Thames from its source in the Cotswolds all the way to the Woolwich Foot Tunnel in London. The official end is Woolwich in London, making it 185.2 miles (298 km) long, however, as of the 12th January 2022 a section of the King Charles III England Coast Path opened from Woolwich to Grain, connecting with the Thames Path National Trail to create a continuous ‘Source to Sea’ National Trail. This combined trail traces along the entire length of the River Thames from the Cotswolds to the North Sea. The entire ‘Source to Sea’ trail is 232 miles (374 km).
Find out more about the Thames Path National Trail at www.nationaltrail.co.uk
The Thames Path Trail Team
Henley, far beyond its regatta fame!
Families can engage in the whimsical world of the adventure golf; a miniature marvel of the town as well as enjoying an ice cream at one of the independent sellers or paint a pot at the Ceramic Café. Also enjoy the upcoming adventure playground set to unveil in June.
Delve into the town’s rich past, where riverside architectural gems such as St Mary’s Church, Henley Bridge, Leander Club, and Temple Island tell tales of historical grandeur. Immerse yourself in the riverine legacy at the River and Rowing Museum.
Henley’s vibrant calendar includes Art Trails, music at the renowned Henley Festival and Rewind and the captivating Traditional Boat Rally featuring iconic Dunkirk Little Ships. The new Wellbeing Festival launching in May adds a holistic touch as well as comedy and family entertainment.
Picture a perfect day with a Mill Meadows picnic, where live music from the bandstand serenades you as boats gracefully glide past. Henley-on-Thames, an essential town to visit along the Thames Path.
What makes a ‘great’ long distance walk? Length.
It doesn’t necessarily follow that the longer the walk, the better. But a great long distance walk should be enough to test your resolve. And, for that, it really needs to be at least 70 miles or so. That’s a good five days of walking.
A purposeful start and end point.
The Coast to Coast Path, now a National Trail, is a wonderful example of a geographic purpose: walking from the west to east coast and taking in whatever comes in between. These types of walks invariably take you through country that you might otherwise have never considered visiting. And then there are historic walks such as the Camino Ingles, tracing the route that pilgrims once followed from Reading to Southampton.
Variety.
A good long distance walk doesn’t need fantastic scenery all the way. But a monotonous landscape will spoil your walk. However variety is more than just landscape. It’s also elevation, settlements, natural habitat, even dialect.
The Thames Path qualifies as a great long distance walk.
So how does the Thames Path do?
At 185.2 miles it clearly passes the first hurdle!
Purposeful?
Absolutely. Although quite where the river ends and the sea begins is never clear. But what about variety?
Is following a river boring? It’s true there are few dramatic changes to the landscape. But consider one of the other dimensions: settlements. That’s what makes the Thames Path so unique. A long distance walk that terminates at the greatest city on Earth. The Thames is liquid history and the places you encounter along the way will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
Yes, the Thames Path qualifies as a great long distance walk.
Richard Luxmore is the founder of Walk the Thames, a walking holiday and bag transfer company specialising on the Thames Path.
The river and the railway –Mending the Gap along the Thames
As the Thames winds its way through the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs National Landscapes, it tracks the Great Western Railway line for part of its route, making it easy to reach from Reading and Oxford. Along this stretch you can see the unsightly gantries, installed by Network Rail when the track was electrified in 2015.
A programme called Mend the Gap, jointly led by the Chilterns National Landscape, the North Wessex Downs National Landscape and the Railway Action Group (a group of local community members who were instrumental in highlighting the visual harm done to this special landscape by the electrification of the line) is working to enhance and enrich this area for wildlife, residents and visitors. Some of the programme’s work is visible and accessible from the Thames Path – here are some projects to look out for:
This is just a few of the many projects – large and small - that Mend the Gap is supporting.
• From Wallingford to Reading the programme is partnering with Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust to fund a dedicated Local Wildlife Sites Officer, who will support landowners to better manage the special habitats and species of this riverside setting.
• At South Stoke the programme funded creation of a community garden, orchard and wildlife area in The Park.
• At Withymead nature reserve near Goring improvements to site accessibility have been funded.
• At Sulham, just west of Reading Mend the Gap is funding the creation of a 2.5 hectare wetland that will attract a range of wildlife.
This is just a few of the many projects – large and small - that Mend the Gap is supporting. To find out more visit www.mendthegap.uk
Reading on Thames in all but name!
Reading owes its existence to its location as the point the Thames and the Kennet rivers join. The first hamlet here was founded over 1000 years ago and while Reading has never adopted the ‘on-Thames’ addition to its name, it now boasts a whopping seven miles of unspoiled riverbanks to enjoy.
The Thames lies just a few hundred metres to the north of the town centre, beyond the railway station on the mainline out of London. You can be on the Thames Path at Reading within 25 minutes of leaving Paddington.
The Thames plays an important part in the town’s leisure time and you’ll find lots things to do on and around the water. River cruises are available from Caversham Pier. Thames River Cruise are celebrating their 50th anniversary this summer and they offer a number of circular cruises and themed onboard events as they cruise up and down river into beautiful countryside. Reading is also a great location to start your own river holiday. You can hire one of Caversham Boat Services’ comfortably furnished cruisers for a short break,
Garden fans will love Caversham Court Gardens, an historic Thameside garden listed on the English Heritage Gardens Register.
Regenerated thanks to a major Heritage Lottery Grant, the 17th and 19th century features of the garden have come back to life. A mile downriver on the opposite bank, Thames Valley Park is a popular recreation area where you’ll find Wokingham Waterside Centre – grab some oars and see the town from the river, join the Saturday morning Park Run or just picnic in the meadows!
The Thames plays an important part in the town’s leisure time and you’ll find lots things to do on and around the water.
If you follow the Thames Path a couple of miles further east, you’ll end up in the beautiful riverside village of Sonning with its charming pubs, church, village centre and celebrity residents. Look out for the Clooneys! Sonning is the site of the oldest bridge over the Thames in the area. The “greatest knight that ever lived” William Marshall is commemorated on Caversham Bridge.
As you walk along the south bank of the Thames entering Reading from the east, you will walk passed the back of the former Edwardian ladies bathing pool. These days, Thames Lido, as it is now known, is a fabulous restaurant, bar, café, open air swimming pool and spa. Make sure you pop in to have a look and stop for a coffee or lunch if you have the time.
If you are looking for a family day out not far from the Thames, Caversham Lakes just north of the river offers a family beach, open water swimming, an aqua park and paddle board hire.
Access to Reading town centre is a short walk south of the river from the bottom of Christchurch pedestrian bridge. The subway under Reading Station takes you into the heart of Reading, for shopping, great eating out choices, Reading Museum and King Henry I’s Reading Abbey Ruins alongside the Kennet. Every June Reading celebrates our waterway links and heritage at Waterfest. This year’s event on Saturday 8 June will be the 33rd such celebration. Reading and our little bit of the Thames will surprise you.
The Port of London Authority
As a Trust Port, the Port of London Authority (PLA) reinvests all income into the river. It has no shareholders and operates for the benefit of customers and stakeholders - now and in the future. Our operations cover 95 miles of the River Thames, from Teddington to the North Sea, and we work to keep commercial and leisure users safe, protect and enhance the environment, and promote the use of the river for trade and travel.
Thames Vision 2050 sets out the long-term, strategic plan for the River Thames and reflects the ambition and priorities for the river, shaped by consultation with stakeholders and led by the PLA. It is available at www.pla.co.uk.
The Active Thames partnership programme supports the development of water sports and walking in London, Kent and Essex. It has provided £350,000 funding to 50 clubs over the past 3 years, encouraging clubs to be more inclusive and specifically supporting coach development, and opportunities for underrepresented audiences such as people with disabilities and long-term health conditions.You can find out more about Active Thames and the impact on community clubs at activethames.co.uk
River Thames Society Welcome to Bondig Bank
A 350 ft / 106 m stretch of riverbank just upstream from Marlow is owned by the River Thames Society and is named in memory of the first recorded Saxon landowner of Bisham Abbey, which is opposite. Originally, the Bank was managed by the monks as an osiery – a plantation of willows, used for baskets, fish traps, fences, and hurdles. After a long history the Abbey eventually became the property of the Vansittart-Neale family, who sold it to the forerunner of Sport England in the 1960’s. However, a piece of land remained, and it was this that the last surviving family member Margaret Dickinson gifted to the society in 1992 and named as Bondig Bank.
We manage the Bank as a small nature reserve looked after by volunteers and the path that runs through is maintained by the Thames Path National Trail in partnership with Buckinghamshire Council.
Since 1962 the River Thames Society has helped to look after the Thames, for its protection and promotion from it source to the sea. We are a charity and membership organisation aiming to:
• Safeguard the river’s natural beauty, its banks and historic buildings.
• Promote the importance of nature conservation.
• Encourage everyone to enjoy and use the river.
• Campaign on issues affecting the well-being of the river, its tributaries and wider catchment.
RTS members receive:
• The quarterly Thames Guardian magazine and Branch communications.
• Invitations to river trips, talks and many other events.
• News of current campaigns and planning issues affecting the river and its environment.
• Opportunities to take part in voluntary activities, such as clean-ups, acting as River Wardens, rowing and supporting our waterman’s cutter.
Please consider joining RTS - Voice of the river. For information & details about membership contact - Membership Secretary: 01491 612456, admin@riverthamessociety.org.uk or via our website www.riverthamessociety.org.uk
Birds of the Thames Path
The Thames Path National Trail partner artist Luke Western is most known for his geometric illustrations, where he uses complex shapes to create beautiful bird portraits, such as the ‘Birds of the Thames Path’ series, created for us at the National Trail.
Luke also has another passion. Years ago, alongside his illustration work, Luke spread his wings into creating stunning, one-of-a-kind wire sculptures. Luke uses annealed mild steel which gives him the flexibility to sculpt free flowing, visually stunning pieces, like the one in the featured image. You can find out more on his website, here: lukewesternart.com/commission-artwork
The beautiful “Birds of the Thames Path” print collection is also still available in A5 and A4 size prints featuring some of the most beloved birds found along the Thames Path National Trail. By purchasing any item from the collection, you will be supporting The Thames Path National Trail, as well as a fabulous artist. Scan the QR code to see the full Birds of the Thames Path collection.
Scan the QR code to see the full Birds of the Thames Path collection.
The River & Rowing Museum
Visit the River & Rowing Museum on the banks of the river at picturesque Henley-on-Thames.
The Museum’s galleries are full of fascinating items and fun displays for all ages to enjoy.
Located a short walk from the railway station and the town centre, along the Thames Path towards Marsh Lock, the Museum’s galleries are full of fascinating items and fun displays for all ages to enjoy.
• The River Gallery explores the natural history and stories of the Thames from prehistoric times to today.
• Dive into the exciting world and fascinating history of competitive rowing in the Rowing Gallery.
• Learn about the origins of Henley-on-Thames, and the characters and events that make it the place we know and love today, in the Henley Gallery.
• Discover the internationally renowned modern British artist in the John Piper Gallery and learn about the depth of his local connections.
• The Wind in the Willows experience enables visitors to fully immerse themselves in Kenneth Grahame’s beloved story of Toad and friends.
• The Community and Kirkham Galleries are great spaces for temporary exhibitions, often featuring local artists.
All of this plus the Little Willows children’s play area and the Rowing Room café, where you can grab a drink and a bite to eat.
For up to date information on opening times and more, visit www.rrm.co.uk or find us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.
Meet the Thames Path Team
Thames Path Manager:
Hannah Gutteridge
Hannah joined the National Trail team at the start of 2022 after several years working in the public rights of way team with Surrey County Council. She brings fresh ideas for making the Thames Path a modern trail accessible for all with improved surfaces, good signage and fewer physical restrictions so that people of all abilities can enjoy being by the river.
Hannah is responsible for the management of the 185.2 mile route from its source in the Cotswolds to Woolwich in east London.
Thames Path Engagement Officer:
Clare Jarratt
Clare joined the Thames Path National Trail team at the end of January 2023 after a varied history that has seen her working in education, heritage, events and even firefighting! She brings enthusiasm by the bagful and is looking forward to creating a mixed calendar of exciting events for the Thames Path National Trail, making it a place where everyone can enjoy spending time.
Thames Path Partnership Chair and Social Media Manager:
Wendy Tobitt
Wendy Tobitt brings a lifetime of experience as a journalist and communications specialist to her work on our fabulous National Trail. Wendy joined the team in 2019 and looks after our X, Facebook and Instagram accounts @thamespathnt. In 2023 she was also signed in as the Chair of the Thames Path Partnership, and now keeps us all on the right track! She’s often walking the Thames Path to take photos and chat to Thames Path walkers.
Walk leadership training for London community groups
The Ramblers is helping community groups in London get out along the Thames Path by providing walk leadership training sessions, thanks to funding from Active Thames. Earlier this year, staff and volunteers from the Ramblers held two training sessions with groups such as Black Girls Hike, Carers4Carers and The Proper Blokes Club. The sessions started in the classroom, with the Ramblers sharing their approach to leading safe, enjoying and welcoming group walks. This helped to build the skills and knowledge of walk leaders – as one of the attendees said, “I very much wanted to gain some confidence to start leading. I’ve been led for many years …. so today has given me the boost to ‘give it a go’ myself”.
The afternoon was about putting theory into practice with a group walk along the Thames Path. Katie Phillips, a Walking Experience Officer from the Ramblers, said: “It’s been great to support a variety of community groups, from mental health groups to education, conservation and LGBTQ+ groups. In total, we supported 27 aspiring and existing walk leaders to lead walks for their local communities”.
The Ramblers has just released new walk leader guidance, tips and inspiration for anyone who leads walks – or is interested in getting started. You can find this at www.ramblers.org.uk/walkleadership.
Living
on
the
River
Thames
Lifeblood or fear of flood?
The River Thames has been a lifeline for our southern communities for as long as it has existed, allowing for transport, trade, and the sourcing of food. Living near to it has numerous benefits, however, sometimes comes with consequences.
Flooding. When the water in the river rises to the point that the channel can no longer contain it, and it spills out across the adjacent land, sometimes with devastating and costly outcomes.
The end of 2023 and start of 2024 has seen the wettest 18 month period ever recorded in UK history, leading to widespread flooding on the Trail. This gave way to some spectacular photographic opportunities but was not as welcomed by those wanting to walk the Trail!
If you are considering a walk on the Thames Path and are concerned about the risk of flooding, check out local weather reports and flood guidance using these websites:
• Met Office Weather: www.metoffice.gov.uk
• Government Flood Checker: www.gov.uk/check-flooding
Top tips if you encounter flood water:
• Do NOT enter the flood water. It may be deeper than you think, or fast flowing, or there may be unseen hazards below the surface.
• Find an alternative route.
• If you or someone you are with does accidentally fall in deeper water, follow the RNLI’s safety advice – lie back, relax, float to live.
The Benson Ferry
The Benson Ferry – Ferret - runs from Benson Waterfront to Benson Lock, and back again!
Tickets are £2.00 one way or £3.00 return. Children half price and dogs free.
A Loyalty card is also available @ £12.00 for 10 trips. These are for individuals only.
Timings and days vary, depending on time of year – we keep notices up to date as much as possible – the notices are placed along the footpath to Wallingford, and also up to Shillingford.
Also please look online for all updates – “The Benson Ferry” on Facebook, and the Ferry Page on www.bygoneboating.co.uk
Due to variances of river and weather conditions, check online if you have any doubt – or just call – 07375 677823.
We do actually have 2 Benson Ferries!
Ferrette has a roof, so is useful in inclement weather as the ‘ferry’ – but she will also be used as a ‘Trip Boat’ – taking passengers from Benson to Days Lock, during summer months – a 2 hour round trip.
Tickets are:
Benson to Shillingford - Single £3.00, Return £5.00
Benson to Dorchester - Single £7.00, Return £12.00
Benson to Days Lock - Single £8.00, Return £15.00
We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Bygone Boating
Age UK Kent Rivers
Age UK Kent Rivers are delighted to have been awarded grant funding from Active Thames to establish regular health walks along the Thames Path in the heart of Gravesend.
Walks take place bi-weekly on Thursday mornings, and those participating meet at the Clarendon Community Hub in Royal Pier Road between 10am and quarter past, heading out at 10:30am to explore the walking routes in Gravesend alongside the River Thames.
Following the walk there is an opportunity to socialise and chat with other walkers, a chance to form new friendships and enjoy a hot drink and cake in the Clarendon’s bar overlooking the riverside.
All abilities are welcome, with the activity headed up by a walk leader who ensures nobody gets lost, and a tail walker who makes sure participants can walk at their own pace without fear of being left behind.
The Royal Clarendon Hotel is steeped in maritime history and is located on the former site of a house which had been occupied by James II when he was Duke of York and Lord High Admiral, before later being converted to a hotel. The present building itself dates from circa 1860.
Age UK Kent Rivers is an independent charity supporting older people and adults with learning disabilities, and the transformation at the Clarendon Royal Community will provide a vibrant community in a luxury setting. Here, extra care living, respite accommodation, a range of activities and the option for care provision are brought together to create the perfect retirement solution for adults aged over 55 - all under one roof.
Whether you want to join us for an organised health walk, or simply pop into our bar and coffee lounge area for refreshments and a pitstop during your own exploration of the Thames Path, a warm welcome awaits you at this historic location overlooking the River Thames.
To find out more check our website www.ageuk.org.uk/kentrivers
Photograph Competition
Your photograph could feature on the front page of our next issue!
If you’d like one of your photographs to be in with a chance of featuring on the front cover of our next issue, please email your photograph submission to thames.path@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Due to the time taken to assess the entries, we are limiting it to one entry per person, so be sure to pick your favourite picture!
The top 5 entries will feature in an article in the next issue, with the winning picture taking pride of place on the front cover.
Walk with us!
2024 has seen the start of a series of guided walks occurring on the Thames Path National Trail. Several groups and organisations approached us expressing an interest in having a walk designed for them, and led by us, and we gladly assisted!
Below are some photos of the fabulous sessions we have run so far.
If you are interested in joining us on a walk, or want to request a walk for your organisation, please get in touch at thames.path@oxfordshire.gov.uk
8 Miler from Reading to Shiplake
International Women’s Day Walk
Rail to Thames Path National Trail!
Looking for a day out by Rail to explore the Thames Path? The Thames Path National Trail Team and Great Western Railway have teamed up with Go Jauntly to bring you this collection of easy walks, starting and ending at a railway station!
The routes are all circular, starting and finishing at the same station, taking in pleasant sights on the Thames Path and incorporating benches, rest stops and toilets (where available).
Full details of the walks can be found by scanning the QR code, or by searching in Google for ‘Go Jauntly, Rail to Thames Path National Trail’. Currently, these walks are available at:
Did you know?
Go Jauntly can help guide you along the entirety of the Thames Path too and have broken it down into easy-to-follow sections. Check it out by scanning this QR code:
