On The River

Waterways have always been important to Reading, with its desirable on the river location setting it apart from many other towns and cities within the UK. Reading owes its existence to its location on the Thames and the Kennet Rivers, and has a whopping seven miles of unspoiled river banks to enjoy, as well as beautiful lakes (and even a beach!) made from former quarry pits.

• Reading’s history as a riverside town
  Reading town centre is close to the where the Thames and the Kennet meet, with Reading’s history and present revolving around them. The Kennet & Avon Canal flows right through the centre of Reading, literally flowing through the Oracle Shopping Centre, providing beautiful waterside food and drink opportunities. The River Thames lies a few hundred metres north of Reading town centre, beyond the railway station offering walkers and cyclist miles of stunning Thames Path to enjoy. A short walk under the station will bring you to its south bank.

• Things to do on the river
  Today, both rivers play an important part in the town’s leisure time and you’ll find lots things to do and activities on the water.  Rowing clubs dot the banks of the Thames, narrow boats and other craft are up and down and through the locks. River cruises are available from near Caversham Bridge on the Thames, taking you to nearby Mapledurham or Henley. Thames River Cruise offer a number of circular cruises and themed onboard events and Reading’s annual Waterfest celebrates the town’s water heritage. The Thames Path takes walkers through the heart of Reading, while there are great walks to pubs and cafes both east and west of Reading on both the Kennet and Thames.

• Riverside parks and gardens
  Caversham Court Gardens is an historic Thameside garden listed on the English Heritage Gardens Register. Regenerated thanks to a major Heritage Lottery Grant, the 17th and 19th Century features of the garden have come back to life.Thames Valley Park is a popular recreation area east of the city centre and here you’ll also find Wokingham Waterside Centre where you can grab some oars and see the town from the river. Follow the Thames Path 4 miles to the east and you’ll end up in the sought-after village of Sonning with its charming pubs, accommodation, green and blue scenery and celebrity residents (The Clooneys, Jimmy Page and Teresa May).

• More ideas on things to do along The Thames at VisitThames

• Find out more about the Kennet & Avon canal