Thames Boat Hire: Self-Drive River Boats & Boating Holidays
About The Thames
Explore southeast England in the most charming way possible with a boating holiday on the Thames.
Our Thames boat hire allows you and your family to discover the famous river from a new perspective, at your own pace, and away from the crowds. As you gaze at Windsor Bridge and Castle or Hampton Court Palace from your river boat, you'll feel like you've been transported back in time.
With everything from large towns with shops, pubs and museums to small villages with a much slower pace, the Thames is the perfect staycation destination for families. So why not hire a boat on the Thames and experience the beauty of southeast England like never before?
The Thames map
= Le Boat Base 
= Navigable river 
= No navigation beyond this point
The perfect boating region for...
History & heritage
The Thames River is perhaps one of the world’s most historic waterways. This becomes ever more obvious as you travel to Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace and Cliveden House on your Thames boating holiday. But the history and heritage is everywhere. Often you’ll dine in a pub that was built 500 years ago.
Family
The Thames is our number one boating holiday destination for children. The whole family will love Legoland Windsor Resort with its fun rides and live shows! Or take a family audio tour of Windsor Castle or an information trail around Hampton Court. There are countless things for the kids to do along the river, making the Thames a holiday they'll remember forever.
Fishing
The beautiful Thames boasts numerous fishing spots to enjoy lazy afternoons surrounded by the peaceful flow of the river. Fishing from your Thames hire boat is not allowed, but there are plenty of free riverside spots for anglers anxious to land roach, perch, barbel, chub, pike or carp.
Useful information
Download our Region Guide
We've produced a handy PDF guide for this region to give you an overview of all the stops and things to do along the waterway.
If you’ve never taken a river boat on the Thames before, whatever preconceptions you may have about what it’s like… are probably wrong! Everyone who hires a canal boat with us is surprised by what they find. The hustle and bustle of city life may very well exist in the centre of London, but that’s not our scene at all!
Le Boat operates on the stretch of Thames between Kingston and Oxford, spanning four counties and meandering through peaceful countryside, as well as several pretty towns and villages. While it is the perfect scenic getaway, it also has an abundance of pubs, restaurants, shops and visitor attractions to keep even the most restless traveller entertained. In fact, there is so much to do, you could easily spend a fortnight here, and still have lots more to explore.
This section is non-tidal and is made navigable by a series of 32 locks which are all electronically controlled and manned by a lock keeper through the day. (See below for more information about locks). It is very easy to navigate and an ideal destination for first time boaters.
Good times are guaranteed!
Great rivers almost always spawn great cities, and the Thames is no exception. The first settlers to arrive were probably Stone Age nomads, based on the discovery of Neolithic manmade shards. Bronze Age wanderers also came. In A.D. 43, Roman legionnaires occupied England and built a seaport they called Londinium near present-day London Bridge. The Thames became the lifeblood of England from then on, assuming its important place in world history.
Nearly 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons on Magna Carta Island in Runneymede. It was here he signed a historic document which is seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy. In this spirit, today Runnymede has several memorials to the ongoing struggle for liberty - a trio of thought-provoking places which are worth a stop at to reflect, ponder and remember.
The Thames River is easy to navigate and suitable for beginners.
The Environment Agency are responsible for the River Thames and will occasionally need to display signs on lock gates when water levels and the fast flow of the river make it hazardous to navigate. This is particularly common after long periods of heavy rain fall.
In order to keep the River Thames a safe and enjoyable place to cruise, please observe the following rules and guidelines and keep your holiday incident-free.
Navigation after dark is forbidden.
- Obey all signs and follow any arrows marked ‘channel’.
- Pass oncoming boats on the right-hand side of the river.
- Boats coming downstream have right of way at bridges and sharp bends.
- Avoid turning near bends, bridges or locks.
- The speed limit is 5 miles per hour/8 kilometres per hour (a fast walking pace) - don’t create wash and slow down when passing anglers and moored boats.
- When mooring, don’t leave unusable gaps and be careful not to damage the riverbank.
- Boating under the influence of drink or drugs is not tolerated - it impairs judgement, slows down reaction times and significantly increases the likelihood of accidents.”
- We recommend life jackets (provided on board) are worn at all times, especially by children and non-swimmers.
- Wear appropriate non-slip footwear – no flip flops.
We've partnered up with some of the best local businesses from the towns and villages along the River Thames to help you get the most out of your Le Boat holiday.
Discover our range of exclusive offers, only available to Le Boat customers.
Take a look at our waterway and lock closures page to find out if there are any scheduled cruising restrictions that will affect your holiday plans.
Going through locks is one of the highlights of a boating holiday. All locks on the Thames are electronically operated and, most of the time, a lock keeper will be present to do most of the work. When they are not, the lock gates will display a blue ‘self-service’ sign – which means you are allowed to operate it yourself. But don’t worry… it’s easy! By the end of your holiday you will pass through locks confidently and become an ace at throwing ropes over mooring bollards!
Lock keepers’ duty times (locks are closed for lunch between 13:00-14:00)
March & November: 09:15 - 16:00
April & October: 09:00 - 17:00
May, June & September: 09:00 - 18:00
July & August: 09:00 - 18:30
September: 09:00 - 18:00
There is no charge to go through locks. Cruising beyond Teddington Locks towards central London is prohibited.
The beauty of a boating holiday is the freedom to stop whenever the fancy takes, whether you see a nice looking pub or an interesting village to explore, or maybe just to top up your water tank or do some shopping. The Thames has plenty of places to moor, but availability can get tight in peak summer so be flexible and stick to the below advice:
Public Moorings
There is a good choice of public moorings along the Thames. Unless signs state otherwise you are allowed to moor for a maximum period of 24 hours and may have to pay a charge at some sites – normally between £6 and £10 a night. Where charges apply, you will usually get a visit from a warden early the next morning collecting payment.
Always respect private rights – there will usually be signs up if mooring isn’t allowed, but if you aren’t sure, either keep on looking, try to ask permission or be prepared to be moved on. Most public moorings will have mooring bollards or rings to tie your boat to, but it may be necessary to hammer stakes into the bank in some places – these are provided on board. Place mooring stakes well back from the bank edge and make sure they do not cause a hazard to passers-by. Gaps between boats are wasteful so please share rings or posts where possible.
Moorings can get busy, especially in peak summer, so we recommend you start looking for moorings around 4pm/5pm, to allow plenty of daylight time to move on and find alternatives if necessary.
Private Marinas
If you would like to guarantee an overnight moorings, or you wish to hook up your boat to a 220v power supply (not available on all boats), then there is a wealth of private marinas where you can pay to moor for the night. They are also particularly handy if you need to pump out your waste tanks, fill up with water or dispose of your rubbish (see page 72 of our Thame Guide, the marinas featured all accept overnight moorings and will be happy to see you.) . It is advisable to call ahead and book a space.
- Hire of the boat and its onboard equipment
- A fully equipped kitchen
- Towels and linen for all passengers
- A boat handling demonstration prior to departure
- Technical support
- On-board maps and visitor information
- Passage through locks
- Optional holiday extras
- Boat damage waiver
- Running costs (diesel, gas, engine wear and tear) - charged by the engine hour.
- Travel to and from the base(s)
- Waterside services if you use them (i.e. moorings where a charge is applicable, pump-out if needed, water, etc)
- Cancellation plan & any travel/personal insurance
- Food and drink
Interactive map of the Thames holiday boats:
= Le Boat base 
= Point of interest
Great to see…
Itinerary suggestions
Our boating holidays allow you the freedom to stop when you want and take each day as it comes. However, you might like to be guided by one of our day-by-day suggested itineraries, complete with estimated cruising times and restaurant recommendations. You can follow it religiously or just use it for ideas – whatever 'floats your boat'. Please bear in mind that our itineraries are just suggestions. Cruising times are estimates and access to waterways, attractions and restaurants are all subject to availability at time of cruising.
Route suggestions
As well as the suggested itinerary shown above, all the routes available in this region are shown below. They aren’t as detailed, but they should help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have. You won’t have time to stop at every single place listed on each suggestion – but they should give you an idea of what’s possible. Of course, cruising times are approximations and access to waterways, attractions and restaurants are all subject to availability at time of cruising.
= Click the arrow icon on each route suggestion, to flip the 'card' and reveal more details.
Benson RETURN via Windsor
Benson
Wallingford
Moulsford
Goring
Pangbourne-on-Thames
Reading
Sonning-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames
Marlow
Cliveden
Cookham
Maidenhead
Eton
Windsor
Benson
24 hr(s) of cruising
155km 34 locks 7 nightsBenson RETURN via Windsor
Scroll down using the grey bar to the right
Overview
You have fun trying to make the palace guards at Windsor Castle smile, but you don’t succeed! Then you take a picnic lunch to the Royal Gardens to relax under the warm sun, vastly content from the rigors of the morning. Royal Cruise boat vacations on the Thames have bewitched with the grand castles and homes you’ve seen so far!
Top highlights:
- The Georgian Manor and exotic animals of Beale Park in Pangbourne
- Maidenhead's multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants
- Windsor's Abbey and Castle
- Stopping for tea at Cliveden House
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson's Bo'Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK's top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world's finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of 'Swan Upping' when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a vacation feel.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain's largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You'll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
24 hr(s) of cruising
155km 34 locks 7 nights
Benson RETURN via Oxford & Henley
Benson
Dorchester-on-Thames
Abingdon-on-Thames
Oxford
Wallingford
Moulsford
Goring
Pangbourne-on-Thames
Mapledurham
Reading
Sonning-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames
Marlow
Benson
24 hr(s) of cruising
186km 30 locks 7 nightsBenson RETURN via Oxford & Henley
Scroll down using the grey bar to the right
Overview
England’s city of learning, venerable Oxford, rises in understated grandeur over the shimmering blue of the Thames. You’re all set to go ashore to sightsee, shop, dine and trek the river’s excellent trail. The laid-back quality of the landscape has soothed you, and you’re glad you made sure your Thames riverboat cruise included some bird-watching at Benson Lock.
Top highlights:
- Abingdon's historic market town with seventeenth century buildings
- The Anglo-Saxon architecture of Oxford, with an endless array of beautiful libraries
- Wallingford's castle and famous market
- Strolling through the half-timbered houses of Sonning-On-Thames
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Dorchester: Dorchester-on-Thames is a village at the confluence of the River Thames and its tributary The Thames. It is ideal for exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside by foot or bicycle. For something different to do, nearby Day's Lock hosts the World Pooh Sticks Championships every spring.
- Abingdon: Abingdon, a lovely market town, has some 56 buildings from the 17th century and prior. Evidence also exists of a 6,000 year old settlement, making this the oldest, continuously-occupied town in Britain. By contrast, it's known for its MG car manufacturing and was one of the UK's first towns to offer free wi-fi for all.
- Oxford: Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires, will inspire and enchant you with its architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Home to royalty and scholars for over 900 years, it is full of old buildings, many owned by the famous University. Excellent shopping, museums and tours will keep you busy for a whole day at least.
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson's Bo'Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK's top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world's finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of 'Swan Upping' when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a vacation feel.
24 hr(s) of cruising
186km 30 locks 7 nights
Benson to Chertsey via Kingston-upon-Thames
Benson
Wallingford
Moulsford
Goring
Pangbourne-on-Thames
Reading
Sonning-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames
Marlow
Cliveden
Cookham
Maidenhead
Eton
Windsor
Runnymede
Staines
Kingston-Upon-Thames
Chertsey
23 hr(s) of cruising
128km 30 locks 7 nightsBenson to Chertsey via Kingston-upon-Thames
Scroll down using the grey bar to the right
Overview
Hampton Court Palace, once the home of King Henry VIII, looms above you and the circular fountain in front murmurs in the background. You smile as you recall the varied charms of your Thames riverboat cruise, a unique way to travel! The world just looks different from a boat, and you know that now at the end of the trip! Cycling, pubs, historic sites — it was all part of the fun!
Top highlights:
- Windsor's Abbey and Castle
- Exploring the history of the Magna Carta in Runnymede
- An exhilarating day of fun at Thorpe Park in Staines
- Learning about the history of Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace in Richmond
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson's Bo'Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK's top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world's finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of 'Swan Upping' when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a vacation feel.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain's largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You'll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Runnymede: Nearly 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons on Magna Carta Island in Runnymede. It was here he signed a historic document which is seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy. Today, in this spirit, Runnymede has several memorials to the ongoing struggle for liberty - a trio of thought-provoking places which are worth a stop at to reflect, ponder and remember.
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas - The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
- Kingston-Upon-Thames: Kingston-upon-Thames was once the coronation place of Saxon Kings (902 – 978). Today this busy market town has developed into a major shopping and entertainment hub, although it retains much of its original charm. It also has a strong arts culture and a vibrant festival programme.
23 hr(s) of cruising
128km 30 locks 7 nights
Chertsey RETURN via Henley-upon-Thames
Chertsey
Staines
Windsor
Eton
Maidenhead
Cookham
Cliveden
Marlow
Henley-on-Thames
Chertsey
16 hr(s) of cruising
75km 18 locks 3 nightsChertsey RETURN via Henley-upon-Thames
Scroll down using the grey bar to the right
Overview
The easy going pace of a River Thames boat rent relaxes you almost immediately after you get going. The villages with waterside pubs and pretty greens tempt you to stop, and you often do! Cycling takes you into the countryside to get a real taste of beautiful England, and sightseeing is unforgettable in Windsor!
Top highlights:
- Windsor's Abbey and Castle
- Henley's extraordinary church and market square
- Maidenhead's multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants
- Stopping for tea at Cliveden House
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas - The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain's largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You'll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of 'Swan Upping' when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a holiday feel.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world's finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
16 hr(s) of cruising
75km 18 locks 3 nights
Benson to Chertsey
Benson
Wallingford
Moulsford
Goring
Pangbourne-on-Thames
Reading
Sonning-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames
Marlow
Cliveden
Cookham
Maidenhead
Eton
Windsor
Runnymede
Staines
Chertsey
15 hr(s) of cruising
96km 22 locks 5 nightsBenson to Chertsey
Scroll down using the grey bar to the right
Overview
Every medieval village you pass draws the eye with ornate buildings and beautiful waterfronts. You’ve just gone by Beale Park outside Goring, but you didn’t stop for a picnic. Instead, you travel on to spend the night in Henley-on-Thames. You’ve decided to take it slow and easy on your River Thames boat rent, savouring the delights of cycling, golf and hanging out in friendly pubs!
Top highlights:
- Windsor's Abbey and Castle
- Goring's Hartslock and Withymead nature reserves
- Maidenhead's multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants
- Stopping for tea at Cliveden House
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson's Bo'Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK's top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world's finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of 'Swan Upping' when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a vacation feel.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Windsor: The Royal town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain's largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You'll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Runnymede: Nearly 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons on Magna Carta Island in Runnymede. It was here he signed a historic document which is seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy. Today, in this spirit, Runnymede has several memorials to the ongoing struggle for liberty - a trio of thought-provoking places which are worth a stop at to reflect, ponder and remember.
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas - The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
15 hr(s) of cruising
96km 22 locks 5 nights
Chertsey RETURN via Windsor & Kingston-upon-Thames
Chertsey
Kingston-Upon-Thames
Staines
Runnymede
Egham
Windsor
Eton
Chertsey
14 hr(s) of cruising
70km 18 locks 3 nightsChertsey RETURN via Windsor & Kingston-upon-Thames
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Overview
Standing in front of the stately Hampton Court Palace near Kingston-upon-Thames, you think about King Henry VIII, who once lived there. You spend time sightseeing, and then your cruise on the Thames lures you past Chertsey to incredible Windsor Castle. Along the way, you stop often at waterside pubs for a bit of steak and kidney pie!
Top highlights:
- The ancient markets in Kingston-upon-Thames
- Windsor's Abbey and Castle
- Exploring the history of the Magna Carta in Runnymede
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Kingston-Upon-Thames: Kingston-upon-Thames was once the coronation place of Saxon Kings (902 – 978). Today this busy market town has developed into a major shopping and entertainment hub, although it retains much of its original charm. It also has a strong arts culture and a vibrant festival programme.
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas - The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
- Runnymede: Nearly 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons on Magna Carta Island in Runnymede. It was here he signed a historic document which is seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy. Today, in this spirit, Runnymede has several memorials to the ongoing struggle for liberty - a trio of thought-provoking places which are worth a stop at to reflect, ponder and remember.
- Egham: This water-meadow alongside the Thames makes a great place to moor up and enjoy a stroll or reflect on world history. Visit the Literary Institute to browse through archaeological items and paintings.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain's largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You'll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
14 hr(s) of cruising
70km 18 locks 3 nights
Benson RETURN via Marlow
Benson
Wallingford
Moulsford
Goring
Pangbourne-on-Thames
Reading
Sonning-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames
Marlow
Benson
14 hr(s) of cruising
75km 28 locks 3 nightsBenson RETURN via Marlow
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Overview
When approaching Henley-on-Thames, you gaze at a postcard-perfect scene — sculling crews row sleek craft, and colourful waterfront pubs and shops look inviting. You know you’re in the midst of quintessential England, so you stop for a lunch of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding washed down with a pint of local ale, a favourite on River Thames cruises!
Top highlights:
- Wallingford's castle and famous market
- Goring's Hartslock and Withymead nature reserves
- The Georgian Manor and exotic animals of Beale Park in Pangbourne
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berksrent Downs within a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson's Bo'Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK's top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world's finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of 'Swan Upping' when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a vacation feel.
14 hr(s) of cruising
75km 28 locks 3 nightsOur Feefo reviews
Feefo is an independent and impartial review service that requests reviews directly from those who have been on a Le Boat vacation. Below you can read what our past customers think about their Le Boat experience, and trust that what you read is unfiltered, unedited and uncensored.
Added on 20 July 2024
Colin Balderson said
Excellent check in and great staff. A great family holiday. Although starting to show it's age, the boat was clean and comfortable. The initial checks and instruction could have been more thorough with part of the make-up bed base initially missing. Everything worked fine, although the fresh water gauge was stuck and continuously showed the tank full when well used.
All in all, a very satisfying experience.
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Chertsey - Chertsey
Magnifique
Added on 29 June 2024
William Dunn said
Thought this was excellent the before elements such as booking etc and the service at Chertsey were all that could have been expected and contributed to a good week. We had a very nice family week on Le boat starting out from Chertsey. The boat we hired a Magnifique was certainly not new by any means however it was absolutely functional in every respect and served us well over the week.The staff at the base were all extremely nice and helpful in every way. One young lady in particular Sofia even installed “Uber” on my phone to allow my wife and I order a taxi to take us to the station as we unlike our fellow boaters had travelled by train.
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Chertsey - Chertsey
Magnifique
Added on 3 June 2024
Lorraine Bambrick said
Amazing company from start to finish. Gemma was so friendly and helpful, she is a credit to ye. Well done ✔️ Originally we had booked Benson. Nearer the holiday we changed to Chertsey and OMG, it was amazing. Lovely pubs and restaurants along the way, the locals were so friendly and we would have loved to stay for another few days. We went the 1st week in June and the weather was actually on our side aswell, which was fabulous. As for Le Boat, we will definitely be booking with this Company again, they were outstanding from start to finish
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Chertsey - Chertsey
Mystique
Added on 24 May 2024
A customer said
Very friendly and helpful at both Chertsey and Benson bases. Made you feel welcome and helped us to get to know the boat and how to pilot it boat is great! Definitely add a Le boat trip to your bucket list. Very easy for first time cruisers. Easy boats to operate. We were a group of 7-10 and we had plenty of space on board. The Thames lock system is easy to use on eve you get the hang of it. Most of the locks are manned too. En route there a many marinas but plenty of great moorings in the towns along the way. A 10 day trip from Chertsey gets you to Benson and back. Bring a WiFi hotspot with you - with unlimited data. Buying food on the way is very easy as there are plenty of towns.
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Chertsey - Chertsey
Classique Star
Added on 15 May 2024
Ofer Rotshtein said
excellent very professional It is perfect holiday to clean your soul. The time passes slowly. Give you time to think and talk.
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Chertsey - Benson
Horizon 3
Added on 3 April 2024
Liudas Baranauskas said
Great rapport with the staff on site Great service lovely marine
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Good day Liudas,
Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of the service you received. We are delighted to hear that you had a great rapport with our staff in Chertsey.
We look forward to welcoming you onboard again.
Kind regards
Refilwe from Le Boat
Chertsey - Chertsey
Classique
Added on 18 September 2023
A customer said
Really enjoyed our holiday - the boat was wonderful for 3 of us and our dog and service from team was great.
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Good day,
Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are very delighted to hear that you had a wonderful time on your Le Boat experience and that the staff were able to be of assistance during your booking process.
We look forward to welcoming you onboard again.
Kind regards
Refilwe from Le Boat
Benson - Benson
Consul
Added on 13 September 2023
A customer said
Everything about our experience with Leboat was great! The people were friendly, knowledgeable and helpful, boat was perfectly matched to our requirements, the river was beautiful and even the sun shone for us. We will be doing this again!
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Good day,
Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time on your Le Boat experience, and that everything was to your liking.
We look forward to welcoming you onboard again.
Kind regards
Refilwe from Le Boat
Benson - Benson
Caprice
Added on 11 September 2023
A customer said
easy, friendly check in, clear run through of boat, everything was very clean , including excellent laundry provided
boat was a bit tired but perfectly adequate
wifi as an extra would have been a nice option as we don't have UK phones We had a great holiday with le boat. The Thames was lovely - beautiful scenery + some nice old villages
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Good day,
Thank you for taking the time to write a review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time on your Le Boat experience, and that our staff were able to assist during your check-in process.
We look forward to welcoming you onboard again.
Kind regards
Refilwe from Le Boat
Benson - Benson
Countess
Added on 3 July 2023
Yvonne Cotterill said
Superb service from booking through to return. Would definitely recommend Le Boat and will sail with them again! Excellent boat, heating lighting etc all worked. Great handover and check-in. Very friendly and knowledgable staff
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Good morning Yvonne,
Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time, and received some excellent service from our experienced staff.
We look forward to welcoming you onboard again soon.
Kind regards
Refilwe from Le Boat
Chertsey - Chertsey
Tango