UPPER RIVER THAMES
LECHLADE TO GODSTOW
PADDLE GUIDE
This is one of the finest long-distance inland paddles in England, taking you through
remote Oxfordshire countryside before arriving on the outskirts of Oxford.
The route combines quiet meandering river, traditional Thames locks, historic bridges and
excellent wildlife, making it ideal as either a long single-day challenge or a relaxed overnight trip.
KEY PADDLE
INFO
Distance: 28 miles (45 km)
Typical Time: 8–12 hours paddling (single day) or 2 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Water Type: Non-tidal river
Navigation Authority: Environment Agency
Suitable For: Kayaks, Canoes, SUPs
Current: Usually gentle
Best Season: April–October
Beginners: Only if split over a few days.
Collins Nicholsons Waterways Guide: Buy here
LOCATIONS ALONG THE ROUTE
You’ll paddle through:
Lechlade
St John’s Lock
Buscot
Buscot Lock
Grafton Lock
Radcot
Radcot Lock
Rushey Lock
Shifford Lock
Newbridge
Northmoor Lock
Pinkhill Lock
Eynsham Lock
King’s Lock
Godstow Lock
The official navigation distance from Lechlade to Godstow is approximately 28 miles, passing eleven lock sections before reaching Oxford.
RIVER CHARACTER
Lechlade → Radcot
* Narrow
* Quiet
* Excellent wildlife
* Very little boat traffic
Radcot → Newbridge
* Wider river
* Long sweeping bends
* Historic bridges
* Remote countryside
Newbridge → Eynsham
* Beautiful floodplain
* Nature reserves
* Increasing leisure boat traffic
Eynsham → Godstow
* Wider river
* More powered boats
* Increasing number of rowers
* Oxford skyline begins to appear
LICENSE REQUIRED?
YES
Paddle UK membership (includes waterways licence)
or
Environment Agency registration where applicable.
MOBILE PHONE
SIGNAL
Generally good throughout the route with occasional weaker sections around remote floodplain meadows.
HISTORIC HIGHLIGHTS
Radcot Bridge
(the oldest bridge over the Thames)
Newbridge
(13th-century bridge despite its name)
Pinkhill Meadow
Eynsham
Godstow Abbey ruins
CURRENT WEATHER
TOM'S TOP TIPS
RADCOT CANOE PASS
You must try the Radcot Canoe Pass if it's open. It can be a little so maybe check with the lock keeper first. Not advised for new kayakers and take a small canoe paddle as a kayak paddle is too wide. WATCH MY FILM HERE.
PORTAGING
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.
UPPER THAMES WEBSITES
PLACES TO EAT
COMING SOON
PLACES TO STAY
COMING SOON
