Science & nature · Evidence-backed
Thames Path National Trail
The Thames Path National Trail is England's longest designated walking route, tracing the River Thames from its rural origins to the sea. Along the way, walkers pass through designated landscapes, heritage sites, and the heart of London.
The Thames Path National Trail follows the River Thames from its source in the Cotswolds to the Thames Estuary, offering walkers a 215-mile journey through historic towns, countryside, and London's urban landscape.
Source of the Thames
The Thames Path National Trail begins at Thames Head, a spring in the Cotswolds near the village of Kemble, marking the official start of the River Thames.
Gloucester and Cheltenham Section
The trail passes through the twin cities of Gloucester and Cheltenham, where walkers can view the River Severn confluence and Regency-era architecture.
Oxford Section
Walkers pass through Oxford, crossing the historic Christ Church Meadow and following the river through the city's famous university buildings and bridges.
Reading and Windsor Section
The trail reaches Reading before continuing to Windsor, home to Windsor Castle and the Thames Valley's royal connections.
Richmond and London Section
The path passes through Richmond upon Thames, with its deer park and Kew Gardens, before entering London and crossing iconic bridges such as Westminster and Tower Bridge.
Thames Estuary and Sea End
The trail ends at the Thames Estuary near Southend-on-Sea, where the river meets the North Sea, marking the tidal limit of the Thames.
Long-Distance Walking Route
The Thames Path National Trail stretches 215 miles (346 km), making it one of the longest urban walking routes in the United Kingdom.
National Trail Designation
The Thames Path was designated as a National Trail in 1994, joining a network of long-distance routes maintained by Natural England.
Cotswolds AONB
The trail's source section lies within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering limestone valleys and traditional villages.
London's Royal Parks
Through London, the trail passes or runs adjacent to Hyde Park, Green Park, and St James's Park, connecting royal green spaces.
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