Things To Do In Henley-On-Thames
Just a few miles down the river from Taplow lies the historic market town of Henley-on-Thames, famous for its regatta and rowing heritage. It’s a lovely place to shop, eat and merely meander, and there are also some great attractions to visit. Here are a few of our favourite days out in Henley.
Visit The River & Rowing Museum
This is a brilliant and welcoming museum on the banks of the River Thames. The River and Rowing Museum has a permanent display dedicated to the story of rowing and Henley’s signal role in this, the history of the town, and the work of artist John Piper. There’s a programme of temporary exhibitions and family-friendly events. The museum has a shop, café and (hurrah) free parking.
Take The Thames Path
The Thames Path follows the famous river for 184 miles. The walk starts in the Cotswolds and finishes in London, passing through many beautiful places, including Henley, on the way. One of the loveliest sections of the route is the 8.7 mile stretch between Henley and Marlow. It takes in Hambleton Lock and Hurley, before finishing in the pretty town of Marlow. If you don’t fancy retracing your footsteps, it’s about half an hour by bus back to Henley.
Or Ride On The River
Or, you could travel by water. Salters Steamers can take you between Henley and Marlow, so you could walk one way and boat back. If you’re looking a more leisurely trip, Hobbs of Henley offer a range of river cruises. They also hire self-drive boats if you’re feeling adventurous.
Get Out Your National Trust Card…
There are plenty of National Trust properties close to Henley-on-Thames. Greys Court is a house, garden and estate three miles from Henley, with a lively, family-friendly events programme. Nuffield Place is a gorgeous Arts & Crafts house seven miles from the town. As you’d expect from the home of Morris Motors Limited’s founder, there’s plenty to interest car enthusiasts.
Other National Trust properties near Henley include West Wycombe, Cliveden and Hughenden. If you’re looking for fresh country air and exercise, we recommend the beautiful Trust-managed Maidenhead Commons.
Stonor Park
Privately owned Stonor Park has been lived in by the Stonor family for 850 years, and parts of the house date back to the 12th century. Even though the family’s still in residence, a generous amount of the house is open to visitors, as well as the stunning, sweeping parkland surrounding the manor.
Visit A Vineyard
Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery produces award-winning wines, ales and liqueurs. Their vines are planted on the slopes of the Chilterns, just outside Henley, and guests can visit the winery and Cellar Shop. If you’d like to visit the winery, you’ll need book a two-hour tour, which includes plenty of tasting opportunities – so it’s best to book a taxi, too.
Annual Events In Henley-On-Thames
The rowing world’s most prestigious date, the Henley Royal Regatta, takes place over five days in July. Then it’s straight into the town’s other main summer event, the Henley Festival with its full programme of music and comedy (and black tie dress code).
In August, party-goers can dress down again for the Rewind Festival, and over the bank holiday weekend, families will find plenty to do at the Henley County Craft Show at Stonor Hall.
There’s always plenty going on around Henley; and we’ve gathered together all the main annual events in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire.
Henley-on-Thames: Good To Know
It’s just under 11 miles to Henley-on-Thames from Taplow, which takes around 20 minutes down the A4130.
There are long-stay car parks at the station and the rugby club. It’s a short walk to the town centre from both of these.
If you prefer to travel by train, there’s a regular service from Taplow to Henley-on-Thames, changing at Twyford. The journey (including the change) takes between 40 and 50 minutes.
Henley is just one of the lovely old towns close to Taplow House, and we’re a great base for exploring Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. If you’d like to find out more about what’s on in and around Henley and Taplow, please get in touch.
