River Thames Day Trip from London Ideal for Summer Vacation

If a lazy boat ride on a placid river through magnificent countryside featuring dozens of stunning and historic landmarks is your cup of tea, a trip on the River Thames will make your day! Whether you hire a boat or take a tour from London, you can’t go wrong.

Famous Landmarks

Your departure point could take you under Tower Bridge to view the tower as Anne Boleyn may have seen it. On the north side of the Thames, approximately 13 miles (21 km) west of London, sits Hampton Court. While it’s on the river, the castle and grounds warrant a separate day trip by coach or rail. Another 48 miles (77 km) would take you to Oxford, famous for its many colleges, almost all architectural gems set in an old and fascinating city.

Windsor is ideal for one day. We joined some friends on their boat, traveling three hours to our destination. There are a number of interesting locks you must traverse, but they require good boating skills and can eat up time. Start early!

Windsor and Eton

Only 30 miles (48 km) from London, Windsor is one of England’s most historic towns and home to the Royal Family. The nearby countryside is gorgeous, with such places to see as the Great Park (5,000 acres) and Windsor and Ascot racecourses. The town around the castle boasts great shops, wonderful museums, and excellent eateries.

The castle began in the time of William the Conqueror and has been rebuilt and modernized many times. Some of the most spectacular bits include the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, the Gallery, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. The varied architecture, works of art, antique furniture, and curiosities reflect the tastes of many different royal generations.

Eton College is a brief walk across Windsor Bridge. Founded by King Henry VI, Eton warrants some time to view the buildings of England’s famous institution for the education of future princes and prime ministers.

As you dock your boat along The Promenade, you will immediately see Browns Bar & Brasserie, where we stopped for tea (meaning a late lunch, with actual tea optional). The food is varied and excellent, and the prices reasonable. Just upstream, bordering Windsor Racecourse, is Boveney Lock, the largest and most attractive lock on the Thames.

Preparation

Summer is obviously the best time, but still take a “brolly” and a coat. The weather is changeable in England, don’cha know!


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