More photos

The Thames at Sunset. (right)

There is something attractive about water - even after the most frenetic day a walk beside calm water always tends to relax everyone. A few flashing glimpses by car or train is not enough to appreciate the wonder that the Thames is.

The Thames encompasses all types of English scenery, from a major city and many large towns to an absolute rural delight. And whether being visited by boat, bike or simply walking beside it, it has something for everyone - including, of course it's rich history.

Who needs power? (left)

This was a group of Dutch rowing enthusiasts at Shifford Lock in Oxfordshire. The Thames is popular throughout the World and many different nationalities have enjoyed its flowing waters in a vast variety of boats.

This particular Lock is of the un-powered variety, that is it is manually pushed open and closed. The sluices or paddles are fitted onto the gates themselves and can be delicately controlled to ease up or down the boats that are in the Lock. The same principle is applied to the Locks downstream but they do have the benefit of electrified hydraulic power.

Whatever type of lock it is the principle in moving boats up and down the 'steps' has changed very little in the last 350 years.

Bridge at Clifton Hampden (right)

A most picturesque village, with a cluster of thatched cottages and a church on a mound. The six arched Bridge was designed by Sir Gilbert Scott, as well as the Church. Another notable attraction is the Pub called 'The Barley Mow', now restored to it's original design. This was a favourite spot for the author Jerome K. Jerome who wrote the now famous 'Three Men in a Boat'.

Downstream, just under the Bridge on the right stands a Norman folly built in 1864.

The many aspects of the River

From top to bottom this river has many different facets, that is - the industrial and hectic aspects of the larger towns and city of London, up to the rural idyll of the higher reaches with its meanders and wonderful wild-life.

The types of boats vary enormously as well, from canoes to Dutch barges. Nevertheless, whatever craft sails the Thames, the enjoyment is unparalleled as simply the most relaxing way of travelling while seeing a vast variety of towns, boats, beautifully maintained locks, flora and fauna...