Henley-on-Thames, a charming riverside town in Oxfordshire, offers visitors a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque destination boasts a wealth of attractions and activities for all ages and interests.
The top 10 things to do in Henley-on-Thames include visiting the River and Rowing Museum, strolling along the Thames Path, and enjoying a boat trip on the river. These popular attractions showcase the town’s rich heritage and stunning scenery, providing guests with unforgettable experiences.
From exploring local shops and cafes to attending world-renowned events like the Henley Royal Regatta, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this quintessential English town. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Henley-on-Thames has something special in store for every visitor.
Henley-on-Thames boasts a fascinating history centred around its iconic river and rowing traditions. The town’s heritage is showcased through its well-preserved landmarks and world-famous regatta.
The Henley Royal Regatta, first held in 1839, is the crown jewel of Henley’s rowing heritage. This five-day event attracts top rowers from around the globe. The regatta course stretches 2,112 metres along the Thames, lined with boathouses and spectator enclosures.
Rowing has been integral to Henley’s identity for centuries. The River and Rowing Museum, opened in 1998, celebrates this legacy. Visitors can explore exhibits on the history of rowing, the Thames, and the town itself.
The annual regatta transforms Henley into a bustling hub of activity. Colorful boaters and blazers become the unofficial uniform as thousands flock to watch the races.
Henley’s historic town centre features Georgian architecture and quaint medieval streets. The Market Place, dating back to the 13th century, remains the heart of the town.
St Mary’s Church, with its 16th-century tower, stands as a prominent landmark. The church’s graveyard contains the grave of Dusty Springfield, the famous singer.
The Grade I listed Fawley Court, just outside town, is a stunning example of 17th-century architecture. Designed by Christopher Wren, it’s now a private residence but visible from the river.
The National Trust-owned Greys Court offers a glimpse into Tudor history. This picturesque estate features a 16th-century mansion and beautiful gardens.
Henley-on-Thames offers stunning natural scenery and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore lush gardens, go on woodland walks, and spot diverse wildlife along the River Thames.
The Chiltern Hills surrounding Henley-on-Thames provide perfect terrain for woodland walks. Greys Court, a National Trust property, features beautiful walled gardens and a peaceful walking trail through beech woods. The Maharajah’s Well Walk takes hikers through picturesque countryside to a unique 19th-century well.
For garden lovers, Stonor Park boasts impressive Renaissance gardens with vibrant flowerbeds. The Herb Garden at Nuffield Place showcases medicinal and culinary plants used in the 1930s.
Nearby, the Warburg Nature Reserve offers 106 hectares of woodland to explore. Visitors can follow marked trails to spot rare orchids and butterflies in season.
The River Thames is home to diverse wildlife. Keen-eyed visitors may spot kingfishers, herons, and even otters along the riverbanks. Marsh Lock is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with ducks, swans, and geese often seen.
Boat trips offer a unique way to observe wildlife. Several companies run nature cruises focusing on local flora and fauna. For a closer look, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available.
The River and Rowing Museum has exhibits on Thames ecology. Visitors can learn about local fish species and conservation efforts to protect river habitats.
Henley-on-Thames offers unique food and drink experiences. Visitors can try their hand at gin making and explore beautiful gardens filled with fresh ingredients.
The Henley Distillery provides an exciting gin making experience. Guests learn about different botanicals and create their own custom gin blend. The distillery’s expert staff guide participants through the process step-by-step.
Visitors can:
The experience lasts about 2-3 hours. At the end, guests take home a 70cl bottle of their unique gin. The distillery also produces its own range of gins and liqueurs available for purchase.
Henley’s Kitchen Garden showcases fresh, local produce. Visitors can wander through neat rows of vegetables, herbs and fruit trees. The garden supplies ingredients to local restaurants and cafes.
Nearby, the Cherry Tree Garden features several varieties of cherry trees. In spring, the trees burst into beautiful pink and white blossoms. During summer, visitors can pick ripe cherries straight from the branches.
Both gardens offer guided tours. Knowledgeable staff explain sustainable growing practices and seasonal crops. Visitors often leave with recipe ideas and gardening tips.
Henley-on-Thames offers fun attractions for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy immersive exhibits and outdoor play spaces that will delight children and adults alike.
The Wind in the Willows Exhibition brings Kenneth Grahame’s beloved story to life. Located at the River & Rowing Museum, this permanent display features 3D models and interactive elements.
Kids can step into Mr Toad’s caravan and explore a recreation of Ratty’s riverbank home. The exhibition uses music, lighting, and sound effects to create an enchanting atmosphere.
Visitors learn about the book’s characters and themes through hands-on activities. Children can dress up as their favourite characters or listen to audio snippets from the tale.
The exhibit appeals to all ages, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
Mill Meadows, along the riverside, houses a charming rose garden and play area. The garden boasts colourful blooms and fragrant roses, providing a peaceful spot for relaxation.
Next to the garden, a well-equipped playground keeps children entertained. It features swings, slides, and climbing frames suitable for various ages.
The play area’s rubber surface ensures safety for active youngsters. Nearby benches allow parents to watch their children while enjoying the garden views.
This combination of natural beauty and play facilities makes it an ideal spot for family picnics and outdoor fun.
Henley-on-Thames offers many resources for visitors. The town’s official website provides up-to-date info on events, attractions, and accommodation.
TripAdvisor is a valuable tool for planning your trip. It features reviews from real travellers about local sights, restaurants, and hotels. These can help you find hidden gems and top attractions.
The Henley Tourist Information Centre is located in the Town Hall. Staff can assist with maps, brochures, and booking tours. They also sell souvenirs and tickets to local events.
Several companies offer guided tours of Henley. These range from river cruises to walking tours of historic sites. Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season.
For those who prefer self-guided exploration, free walking tour maps are available at the Tourist Information Centre. These highlight key sights and provide interesting facts about the town’s history.
Online review sites can be useful for finding highly-rated attractions and activities. Many travellers share photos and tips to help others plan their visits.
Remember to check opening hours before visiting attractions. Some may have seasonal schedules or require advance booking.
Send us an email at reservations@millioncars.co.uk or call us on 01491 414140.
Or use our Contact Form
Get ready for a summer treat! The Henley Festival is coming back to the charming…
Nestled along the banks of the River Thames in Oxfordshire, Henley-on-Thames is a charming town…
Our taxi firm is proud to serve Henley-on-Thames and its vibrant local businesses. We offer…
Nestled in the picturesque Chiltern Hills, Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery offers a delightful escape…
Get ready for a festive treat in the heart of Henley-on-Thames this December! The charming…
Corporate travel in Henley-on-Thames has become increasingly streamlined with the availability of professional taxi services.…