River Thames
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.
Dorchester is also close to the Ridgeway, an ancient trade route which dates back some 5,000 years and crosses the River Thames at nearby Goring. History has left its mark on the landscape, with Iron Age hillforts, medieval field systems, priories, manor houses, watermills, churches and river crossings.
Highlights of our walking itinerary will include the Sandford 'Lasher' where the river roars through the weir beside Sandford Lock; the picturesque villages of Culham, Sutton Courtenay, Clifton Hampden, Dorchester-on-Thames, Shillingford, Streatley, Goring and Pagbourne; the view from Wittenham Clumps; the approach to Goring Lock; and the historic market square in Abingdon.
Your holiday on the River Thames will be based at the White Hart Hotel, a 16th century former coaching inn which is located in the historic high street in Dorchester-on-Thames, just a stone's throw from both the River Thames and historic Dorchester Abbey. All of The White Hart's attractive and well-appointed bedrooms have ensuite bathroom facilities and the restaurant prides itself on using quality local produce to prepare its interesting and innovative menus.
Holiday Options 2023
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All of the above prices are per person, and based upon two guests sharing a double or twin-bedded room.
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Single traveller? Enjoy sole occupancy of a double room at a supplement of £45 per night. (More about single supplements)
Currency Converter: All of our prices are in British pounds. To estimate the cost in another currency use the currency converter here.
Travel information
Rail: Didcot Parkway
Onward travel: Taxi