Self-guided holidays : Single centre self-guided walking holidays
Thames Path
Self-guided Walking Holidays
The Thames is a river of great variety, particularly in its middle section between Oxford and Reading where the river is navigable but still quite narrow and every bend in the river brings a new view. Birdlife and bank-side flora abound and the passing narrow boats add interest and a sense of tradition and fun without detracting from the peace and beauty of the river - they are all an intrinsic part of the waterside scene. Small riverside hamlets, locks with their attractive keeper's cottages, waterside inns and the occasional ornate bridge all add to the unique atmosphere which can only be experienced whilst walking the banks of England's most famous river.
The River Thames supports a wide variety of wildlife, with birds and insects particularly numerous. Ducks, coots, kingfishers, herons, swifts, warblers and majestic mute swans share the river with damselflies, dragonflies and butterflies. Sharp eyes may also spot the endangered water vole. The margins of the river are home to colourful yellow flag irises, marsh marigolds, foxgloves and purple loosestrife.
Wallingford is close to the Ridgeway, an ancient trade route which dates back some 5,000 years and crosses the River Thames at Goring. History has left its mark on the landscape, with Iron Age hillforts, medieval field systems, priories, manor houses, watermills, churches and river crossings.
The itinerary will vary slightly depending upon the length of the holiday, however, highlights which will be enjoyed by everyone will include the Sandford 'Lasher' where the river roars through the weir beside Sandford Lock; the picturesque villages of Culham, Clifton Hampden, Dorchester-on-Thames, Shillingford, Streatley, Goring and Pagbourne; the view from Wittenham Clumps; the approach to Goring Lock; and the historic market squares in Abingdon and Wallingford.
Bed & Breakfast option
Your holiday on the River Thames will be based at a manor house B&B on the outskirts of Benson. Parts of the manor house date from the 12th century. Your room will have ensuite facilities (private bathroom) and you will have a choice of continental or full English breakfast. Benson and its neighbouring villages have a number of inns and restaurants serving meals in the evening.
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast option
Your holiday on the River Thames will be based at the George Hotel [AA***], a former coaching inn which is located in the historic high street in Wallingford, just a stone's throw from both the River Thames and the attractive town hall. It is thought that the hotel building, which dates from the 16th century, was once the dower house to Wallingford Castle, the ruins of which are located to the rear of the hotel. All of The George's attractive and well-appointed bedrooms have ensuite facilities and the restaurant prides itself on using quality local produce.
Holiday options
Bed & Breakfast holiday options
| Code: TMSSBE5 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £440 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: TMSSBE7 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £545 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: TMSSBM5 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £440 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: TMSSBM7 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £545 |
email us to check availability
book
online
- All of the above prices are per person, and based upon two guests sharing a double or twin-bedded room.
- Single traveller supplement; £50 per night (More about single supplement).
- Discounts available for parties of three or more guests.
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast holiday options
| Code: TMSSHE5 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £675 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: TMSSHE7 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £860 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: TMSSHM5 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £675 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: TMSSHM7 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £860 |
email us to check availability
book
online
- All of the above prices are per person, and based upon two guests sharing a double or twin-bedded room.
- Single traveller supplement; £50 per night (More about single supplement).
- Discounts available for parties of three or more guests.
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All of our prices are in British pounds. To estimate the cost in another currency use our currency converter.
Travel information
Rail: Didcot Parkway
Onward travel: Public bus or taxi