Gawping at gorgeous scenery and bragging about my step count are two activities that are extremely high up on the list of things I love to do. And so discovering new places in which I can partake in both brings me a great deal of pleasure. One particular spot that offers up the opportunity in spades is the Thames Path. One of 16 National Trails in the UK; the Thames Path is often referred to as one of the best walking routes in the country. And to be quite honest with you, it’s not too hard to see why.
Stretching the entire length of the country’s most famous river, the Thames Path follows the banks of the River Thames from an elderly ash tree in the Cotswolds all the way to the Thames Barrier in Woolwich. The trail spans a rather mighty 185 miles in total, and is made up of a number of different sections. Each chunk varies in length, difficulty, and atmosphere. So, this wonderful waterside walking route truly has something for everybody to enjoy.
The Thames Path
The path was initially proposed back in 1948but wasn’t completed until 1996. It was created to provide walkers with a pleasant route for a riverside roam. And, well – it certainly did what it set out to do, hey? The trail starts beneath the boughs of a tree in a meadow in Gloucestershireknown (rather aptly) as Thames Head. It then passes through some of the quaint, quiet and quintessential villages of the Cotswolds before reaching the jaw-droppingly stunning scenery of the Chiltern Hills.
The trail then winds its way through some historic towns and cities including the likes of Oxford, Henley-on-Thames, Marlow, Windsor and Teddington. And the path’s big finish is in the Big Smokepassing some of London’s most legendary landmarks before ending at the Thames Barrier in Woolwich.
Experts recommend following the trail from west to east so that you’re walking with the wind rather than against it. And if you really want to make the most of it, you can book to explore the trail on a guided walking tour. You could easily spend a full two weeks exploring the path and stopping off at some of the gorgeous towns and villages on route. But you can also just opt to explore the path bit by bit, depending on what you fancy. There are peaceful and serene stretchesdog-friendly sections, accessible routes, and parts that are particularly great for those who like to end their crisp walks with even crisper pints.
Getting to the start of the Thames Path from London
The path starts at the source of the River Thames (AKA Thames Head). You’ll find it in Trewsbury Mead near Kemble in Gloucestershire, and it’s surprisingly easy to get there via public transport from the capital city. Londoners can hop on direct train from London Paddington to Kembleand the starting point of the Thames Path is just a 20-30 minute walk from there.
Find out more about the Thames Path National Trail and plan your route here.
