Thames River
CRICLADE - CASLE EATON
Distance: ~5 miles | Time: 2–3 hours | Locks: None
A peaceful stretch of the Upper Thames through open countryside — perfect for a gentle half-day paddle with no locks to navigate.
CASTLE EATON - LECHLADE
Distance: ~6 miles | Time: 2–3 hours | Locks: None
Enjoy tranquil waters and beautiful rural views on this easy paddle finishing at the picturesque town of Lechlade. No locks on this stretch.
LECHLADE - RADCOT
Distance: ~9 miles | Time: 3–4 hours | Locks: 2 locks (St John’s Lock, Buscot Lock)
A scenic route passing through St John’s Lock — the highest lock on the Thames — and Buscot Lock, with plenty of wildlife and riverside pubs.
RADCOT - BUCKLAND MARSH
Distance: ~6 miles | Time: 2–3 hours | Locks: 1 lock (Grafton Lock)
A quiet rural section with just one lock to pass through. Look out for kingfishers and herons along the way.
BUCKLAND MARSH - SHIFFORD LOCK
Distance: ~6 miles | Time: 2–3 hours | Locks: 1 lock (Shifford Lock)
A lovely, lesser-known stretch of the Upper Thames with peaceful scenery and only one lock to navigate.
SHIFFORD LOCK - NEWBRIDGE
Distance: ~5 miles | Time: 2–3 hours | Locks: None
A gentle paddle with no locks, finishing at the historic Newbridge with its charming riverside inns — perfect for a relaxing drink after your trip.
NEWBRIDGE - NORTHMOOR LOCK
Distance: ~5 miles | Time: 2–3 hours | Locks: 1 lock (Northmoor Lock)
An easy-going route through pretty countryside with one lock to pass before finishing near Northmoor’s peaceful meadows.