UPPER RIVER THAMES
BABLOCK HYTHE TO GODSTOW
PADDLE GUIDE
This is one of the most attractive shorter sections of the Upper River Thames, taking you from the historic ferry crossing at Bablock Hythe through quiet Oxfordshire countryside and eventually into the western edge of Oxford.
At just over seven miles, it makes a much more manageable day paddle. The character changes considerably along the way: the peaceful, narrow river around Bablock Hythe gradually gives way to more boat traffic, bridges, rowing activity and the historic landscape around Godstow.
THE ROUTE
Click on the items along the route for more info and what3word links.
KEY PADDLE
INFO
DISTANCE
7.3 miles (11.7 km)
AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
3-4 hours paddling
DIFFICULTY
Easy - Moderate
WATER TYPE
Non-tidal river
NAVIGATION AUTHORITY
Environment Agency
SUITABLE FOR
Kayaks, Canoes, SUPs
CURRENT
Usually gentle
BEST SEASON
Spring - Autumn
SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS?
Yes.
Collins Nicholsons Waterways Guide: Buy here
HISTORIC HIGHLIGHTS
SWINFORD BRIDGE
Historic toll bridge and one of the defining structures on this section of the Thames.
GODSTOW BRIDGE
Historic bridge immediately beside the Trout Inn and Godstow Lock.
GODSTOW ABBEY
The ruins of the medieval abbey provide a spectacular finale to the paddle.
RIVER CHARACTER
BABLOCK HYTHE → PINKHILL
Narrow
Quiet
Rural
Meandering
Excellent wildlife
Very little powered traffic
PINKHILL → EYNSHAM
More open
Historic Swinford Bridge
Increasing river traffic
Lock navigation
Attractive meadows
EYNSHAM → KINGS LOCK
Longer open section
Wytham countryside
More recreational activity
Wider river
Increasing proximity to Oxford
KINGS LOCK → GODSTOW
More urban influence
More boats
Rowing activity
A34 crossing
Godstow Bridge
Godstow Abbey
Historic Oxford landscape
LICENSE REQUIRED TO PADDLE?
YES
Paddle UK membership (includes waterways licence)
or
Environment Agency registration where applicable. You can buy day licences from some locks as you go along the route.
MOBILE PHONE SIGNAL
Generally good.
The route is close enough to Oxford that mobile coverage should normally be reasonable, although there can be weaker areas around the more isolated meadows.
Don't rely solely on mobile coverage for navigation or emergencies.
WEATHER AND FLOW
TOM'S TOP TIPS
START EARLY
Parking is very limited so get there nice and early. WATCH MY FILM HERE.
CARRY LONG LINES
Many of the locks are lacking easy re-entry points on the London side unless you're happy to climb down into your craft. Make sure you have long mooring lines forward and aft to lower them back in.
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