Great Activities, Events, Books, Walks, Attractions, Towns and Villages in the Thames Valley

Home to magnificent landscapes, the Thames Valley is a great destination at any time of the year, offering something for everyone - from leisurely boat trips and activities such as horse riding to historic villages and extensive walks in rural countryside.

Events Fun events and festivals for all ages in the Thames Valley

Accommodation Best accommodation deals for hotels and more in the Thames Valley

Attractions Find exciting attractions from palaces and castles to Theme Parks

There's so much to discover

The Thames Valley offers a fantastic range of sights and activities: modern towns and historic villages, beautifully sculptured gardens, stately homes and castles, enchanted forests, great nature trails, and, of course, a host of activities centred around the River Thames! Find some great destinations in the carousel below, or scroll further down to browse and search by category.

Many great places along the River Thames are only a stone's throw from historic sites, great shopping and extensive recreational areas.

Abingdon Lock is steeped in history, with the original weir reputedly built by monks.

With is pretty gardens and diverse range of animals, Beale Park is a great fun for young and old. Among other things the park offers lots of activities for the little ones, a picnic area and a model boat museum.

Black Park is a great place for walking, cycling and some lakeside fun. It ideal for a day out with friends and family, and with its proximity to Pinewood Studios you might just spot the odd bit of filming.

A large park of over 2000 beautifully landscaped acres with plentyful wildlife. There are lakes, and lawns ideal for a picnic, and if you are looking for a cultural delight, Blenheim Palace is right there.

Just east of Faringdon, in the upper Thames Valley, lies the distinctive landmark of Folly Hill, or Faringdon Hill, so-called because of the Folly Tower situated on top.

This page wouldn't be complete without a reference to this great old university town with its bustling centre, impressive buildings and pleasant meadows. A great destination for shopping, culture and relaxation alike!

Reading, which dates back to the 8th century, is now one of the UK’s top retail destinations. With its extensive pedestrian zone and many restaurants by the Kennet and Avon Canal, it offers plenty of opportunity to shop and relax.

From its source in Gloucestershire to Greenwich, London, the Thames Path path runs 184 miles along the side of the River Thames. It is popular with ramblers, but can easily be walked or cycled in part by anyone.

Why not spend a day in and around Cookham? Explore quaint shops, relax by he riverside, or perhaps take a brisk walk up Winter Hill to enjoy the fabulous view. There's plenty of good places for a picnic as well as some great pubs and restaurants.

Windsor Castle in Windsor, Berkshire is one of the most famous royal residencies and the largest occupied castle in the world. It dates back to the 11th Century and is an official residence of The Queen.

Many great places along the River Thames are only a stone's throw from historic sites, great shopping and extensive recreational areas. Browse through the carousel for some suggestions.