River Thames Lock Closures: Five Months of Disruption Ahead for Boaters and Paddlers
Several River Thames locks are scheduled to close for winter maintenance between November 2026 and March 2027, potentially affecting boaters, kayakers and canoeists planning longer trips.
Which Thames locks are affected?
The announced programme includes
Abingdon Lock (2 November 2026–22 March 2027),
Hambleden Lock (2–20 November and 30 November–17 December 2026),
Marsh Lock (23 November–18 December 2026),
Temple Lock (11 January–22 March 2027)
Cookham Lock (11 January–22 March 2027).
Check official notices for changes.
What does this mean for kayakers?
Unlike powered craft, kayaks and canoes can sometimes be carried around a closed lock. Canoe portage has been indicated as possible with care at Abingdon and Cookham, but access can change during engineering works. Never assume every lock has a safe or open portage route.
Why are the locks closing?
The Environment Agency uses the quieter winter period for essential repairs and upgrades to lock gates, hydraulics and other navigation infrastructure. The work helps keep the Thames navigable in the longer term.
Planning a winter paddle?
Check official navigation restrictions, portage arrangements and alternative launch points before travelling. Keep an eye on river levels, strong stream warnings, daylight and cold-water conditions.
Check closures in one place
I've launched a Waterways Alerts page bringing together navigation information for waterways in England and Wales, saving time when planning a trip. Always verify restrictions with the navigation authority.
My thoughts
Five months is a long time for a lock to be unavailable, but maintaining these historic structures matters. For paddlers, clear information about whether portage is possible is particularly important. Nobody wants to discover a blocked route halfway through a trip.
Useful links
Official Thames restrictions: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/river-thames-restrictions-and-closures
Current Thames conditions: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/river-thames-current-river-conditions
Original Oxford Mail report: https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/26646147.river-thames-lock-close-navigation-five-months/
Paddle With Tom is an independent resource. Closure dates and access arrangements may change; check official notices before setting off.
