READING GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Four Days on the Thames: Maidenhead to Windsor by Canoe
A four-day guided paddle covering 32.5 miles and 12 locks between Maidenhead and Windsor, with notes on route, logistics and key stops.
Four Days on the Thames: Maidenhead to Windsor by Canoe.
Extend a three-day hire into a four-day downstream paddle that covers 32.5 miles and 12 locks from Maidenhead to Windsor, threading the Thames past village pubs and B&Bs and unfolding final, unmistakable views of Windsor Castle and the racecourse.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Long-distance river travel with measured stages
The extension gives you a four-day downstream paddle totaling 32.5 miles and navigating 12 locks, broken into manageable day stages so you can take in the river rather than rush it.
Riverside pubs and B&Bs
The itinerary includes comfortable overnight choices and characterful stops en route — notably The Bounty public house at Bourne End — offering places to rest, eat and recharge between paddling days.
Approach to Windsor
The final short day brings you past Windsor Race Course with clear views of Windsor Castle before arriving at the Windsor Leisure Centre slipway for collection.
What the day feels like
What the four-day paddle feels like
Broken into sequential day hops, the trip moves from full-day mileage to shorter paddles as you progress: an initial long day ending in Henley, a gentler second day to Marlow, a third shorter run to Boulter’s Lock, and a final 6.5-mile day into Windsor — a rhythm that balances effort, sightseeing and overnight stops.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator provides buoyancy aids, paddles and dry bags and will run a full safety briefing at the Boat Yard before launch; bring personal clothing and any overnight items you need for B&B stays.
You will be met at the operator’s base at The Boat Yard where staff will kit you out, give a safety briefing and help you into your boats to start the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is this trip?
This is a four-day paddle extension covering a downstream route to Windsor.
Where do I meet the operator?
You will be met by Thames Canoe Hire staff at their base at The Boat Yard, where you receive a safety briefing and kit before launch.
Is there a collection or pick-up service?
Yes — staff meet parties at specified points, including Boulter’s Lock and the Windsor Leisure Centre slipway for final pick-up as described in the itinerary.
Are paddling kits provided?
Yes — buoyancy aids, paddles and dry bags are provided by the operator as part of the briefing and kit-up process.
Can minors take part alone?
No — under-18s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.
What notable stops are on the route?
The route includes riverside stops such as The Bounty public house at Bourne End and overnight B&B options at stage towns like Henley and Marlow.