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Thames Path Highlights: 5-Day Hiking Trail from Henley-on-Thames to Windsor (self-guided)
Hiking the Thames Path: A 5-Day Tour of the Highlights
There are walking routes where you naturally start to slow down after just ten minutes. Not because it’s hard—quite the opposite—but because you keep seeing something that calls for a break: a lock with babbling water, a rowboat gliding by, a pub patio by the river, or a bridge that looks like it came straight out of a postcard.
The Thames Path Highlights is exactly that kind of route: a leisurely, culturally rich walk along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Thames, from Henley-on-Thames to Windsor.
This is a shortened version of the Thames Path that includes all the highlights. You’ll hike for 5 days / 4 nights, completely self-guided, with short daily distances and mostly flat terrain. Ideal if you want to experience England on foot at a leisurely pace, with plenty of time for tea, pub dinners, and short detours to scenic viewpoints. You can book this trip through our local specialist. Read more about it below.
Why this particular Thames Path route?
Slow travel, plenty to experience: mostly flat, with peaceful towpaths and green meadows.
Classic England along the water: locks, weirs, villages, and river parks.
Cultural stops along the way: from literary Marlow to artistic Cookham.
Grand finale in Windsor: a walk with a view of the castle, followed by a stroll through town.
Highlights Along the Way
You’ll pass by the spots that give the Thames its iconic charm: Hurley and Temple Locks, the elegant atmosphere of Marlow with its suspension bridge, the stretch near Maidenhead under Brunel’s railway bridge, and picturesque Cookham.
Fun fact: Marlow is said to be the place where Mary Shelley worked on *Frankenstein*, and Cookham is closely associated with the painter Stanley Spencer.
Daily Itinerary (5 days / 4 nights)
Hello
Route
Overnight Stay
Distance
1
Arrival in Henley-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames
–
2
Henley-on-Thames – Marlow
Marlow
15 km
3
Marlow – Cookham (optional: Cliveden House)
Cookham
8 km / 12 km
4
Cookham – Eton/Windsor
Eton / Windsor
15 km
5
Ends after breakfast
–
–
Day 1: Arrival in Henley-on-Thames
You’ll start in Henley-on-Thames, an elegant Georgian riverside town known for rowing and the Royal Regatta. Henley is easily accessible by train from London (about an hour from London Paddington).
Tip: Take a short evening stroll along the promenade—it’s the perfect way to get into the rhythm of the river.
Day 2: From Henley-on-Thames to Marlow (15 km)
A leisurely start: you follow the Thames through green, peaceful countryside, enter Buckinghamshire, and pass the locks at Hurley and Temple. Arrival in Marlow, a lively yet quaint town with its picturesque suspension bridge and lovely parks where you can stretch your legs.
Day 3: From Marlow to Cookham (8 km or 12 km via a detour)
Today’s walk is particularly peaceful—ideal for coffee breaks. You’ll pass through Bourne End and walk under Brunel’s railway bridge near Maidenhead. Cookham has an artistic atmosphere (Stanley Spencer lived and worked here).
Option: Add +5 km with a detour to Cliveden House (National Trust) for spectacular views of the Thames.
Day 4: From Cookham to Eton/Windsor (15 km)
As you continue walking toward Windsor, you’ll often see the “towers” looming in the distance. Along the way, you’ll pass through Eton, known for its historic college and a somewhat quieter atmosphere.
In Windsor, it’s worth saving some energy for The Long Walk in Windsor Great Park: a stately, tree-lined avenue stretching 2.6 miles (4.2 km) all the way to the Copper Horse.
Practical tip: If you really want to explore the castle in depth, it’s worth considering spending an extra night in Windsor.
Day 5: Ends after breakfast
The trip ends after breakfast. Windsor has good train connections to London (including Paddington and Waterloo).
Practical Information: Difficulty Level, Terrain, Best Time of Year, and What to Pack
Difficulty level: Trip Grade 2 (suitable for beginner hikers and a leisurely pace).
Surface: asphalt and gravel towpaths; may be muddy in wet weather.
Travel period: April through the end of October.
Luggage transport: included; 1 bag up to 20 kg per person (soft bag or duffel bag recommended).
Route information: You’ll receive a digital route app that includes GPX files and personalized information.
A surcharge applies to single rooms
Accommodations & Meals
You’ll stay at a mix of B&Bs, lodges, and small-scale hotels, on a bed-and-breakfast basis. In many places, you can arrange for a packed lunch, and you’ll often come across cafés or shops along the way. Dinner is usually available at pubs or restaurants, or sometimes at your accommodation.
PricesThames Path Highlights Hike
Prices per person based on double occupancy
April 1–20 and October: €639
April 21 – May 19 and September: €669
May 20 – August 31 €669
Request a quote: Thames Path Highlights – 5-Day Hiking Trip from Henly to Windsor
When you request a quote, we’ll forward it to our local partner, who will confirm it directly with you if they agree. You’ll pay the same price (or less) as if you were booking directly. You’ll handle the rest of the booking and payment directly with the local provider (with whom we have a good working relationship and established agreements). We’re always available to answer any questions you may have.
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More Sustainable Walking Along the Thames (Small Choices, Big Impact)
Come by train: the route starts and ends at locations with good rail connections.
Bring a reusable bottle and a snack box (less packaging, especially for packed lunches).
Stay on the trail, as riverbanks and grasslands can be unstable, especially in wet weather.
Eat locally: pubs and small cafés along the river are part of the local economy and add to the route’s charm.
With a passion for travel and photography and over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, I love to share my special nature travel tips. Travel is wonderful and important, you meet new people and cultures and it opens your view of the world.
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If you’re looking for travel itineraries, the most beautiful hikes, and destinations, you can find it all here. You’ll find endless inspiration for your next trip. Beautiful cities are interspersed with nature. You’ll find everything you need to know about practical matters. Plus, there are plenty of tips for sustainable travel. That way, you’ll get the most out of your trip.
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