The Thames Path: Walking Old Father Thames into Historic London

"Walk the Thames: A River Journey to the Sea"
This shorter, 130km section of the Thames Path invites you on a captivating journey along the river, showcasing its diverse character as it transitions from freshwater to the tidal waters of the sea.
Highlights:

• Dynamic Landscapes: Experience a captivating range of scenery, from tranquil riverside paths shaded by trees and lush meadows to the bustling energy of urban sections.
• Iconic Landmarks: Explore world-renowned landmarks like Hampton Court Palace, Syon Park, Windsor Castle, and the majestic Tower of London.
• River Life in Action: Witness the vibrant activity on the river, with barges, yachts, and recreational vessels sharing the waterway with kayakers and paddleboarders.
• Enjoyable Walking: Walk along well-maintained gravel paths and grassy trails, making for a generally easy and enjoyable journey.
• Cultural Immersion: Gain a deeper understanding of the Thames' profound significance in London's history as you encounter numerous points of historical and cultural interest along the route.

Highlights:
Historically and scenically interesting Henley, Marlow, Eton & Windsor and Richmond Visits to Kew Gardens, Windsor Castle, Hampton Court, The Tower of London are all possible A tiny ferry trip Victorian parks with beautiful trees, including Wandsworth Park, Battersea and Greenwich

The London attractions: Tate Modern and Tate Britain, London Eye, The Shard, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, St. Pauls, HMS Belfast, Tower Bridge
Central accommodations to enjoy the nightlife in the towns and London

Day 1: Arrival day ready for our group check-in at 3pm

Day 2 Henley-on-Thames to Marlow, 14km, 3.5 hours This first day is a very pleasant introduction to the walk, the shortest day of the tour, it gives you plenty of time to explore both Henley and Marlow and lull around the river in between.

Day 3 Marlow to Windsor, 23.3km, 6 hours This is just about the longest stage of the week, leaving Marlow and out into the meadows beside the winding river. You switch to the south bank at Bourne End and along to Cookham, where you will find the gallery museum to famous local painter, Stanley Spencer

Day 4 Windsor to Chertsey Bridge 19.3km, 5 hours From the crowds at Windsor, stroll through Home Park with more views of Windsor Castle. Then reach the meadows of Runnymede. You will need a long zoom to see the Magna Carta temple on the other side of the river donated by the American Bar Association in 1957

Day 5 Chertsey Bridge to Kingston, 18.5km, 5 hours This is one of those days where it feels as if you are walking for the most part through a big park! There are beautiful tranquil sections of the river on shady riverside paths and also through meadows passing houseboats, islands largely built on with little chalets, boat yards, and of course pubs and cafes. There is a tiny ferry to take early in the day which is the only one on the tour

Day 6 Kingston to Putney Bridge 21.6km, 5.5 hours, A fairly long stage takes you through the attractive towns of Richmond and Kew where a diversion may be contemplated to visit Kew Gardens which is just by the Thames. We recommend, that you stick to the south side of the river. You will however have to watch out for cyclists who also share much of the route today. However the track is on the whole quite wide

Day 7 Putney Bridge to Tower Bridge 16.4km, 4.5 hours Today’s walk is a busy hike along the central London sections of the Thames Path. You could once again follow either north or south sides of the river, but we would recommend the south side route, because you spend less time by busy roads and get very good perspectives on the central London / Westminster area. You can always use one of the numerous bridges to cross The Thames to visit any of the attractions on the North bank such as Tate Britain, Westminster Abbey, St.Pauls and The Tower of London

Day 8 Tower Bridge To The Thames Barrier 17.7km, 5 hours Following the huge loops of The Thames you pass old wharves, several famous buildings including the (London millennium, O2) Dome and ends at the Thames Barrier. Some of what can be seen on this section of The Thames Path is changing all the time - the first part from Tower Bridge goes past lots of refurbished warehouses (now turned into apartments), quite a few wharves which involve slight diversions - then comes out on the approaches to the Dome

Day 9 After breakfast depart for your onward journey or stay a little longer and explore London!

Inclusions: Twin share (same sex) accommodation throughout including breakfast daily!

Price: is $1850 with deposit required of $450 non-refundable, please email David@discoverytravel.com.au with your name and mobile number at time of RSVP for an invoice and payment options. Payment plan option please ask for details. Single supplement may apply to odd numbers...
No refunds however a replacement may be found from the waitlist if one exists some change fees may apply.
This is an international travel trip and travel insurance with unlimited medical cover, including existing conditions and insolvency is compulsory.

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Aussie Explorers organisers and leaders accept no liability during this meetup, leaders try to ensure the safety and well-being of members at all times however as this is a weekend away travelling, exploring different areas and hiking in the great outdoors accidents happen, please take responsibility for your own safety and your belongings. Deposits are non-refundable, final price is subject to currency fluctuation.