Group Travel Tour Operator and DMC for London
‘Thames Tales’ Rewritten – NEW & IMPROVED!
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Salters Steamers, Oxford - Thames Cruise
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Thames Rivercruise - - (CMY-NCN_No Expiry)
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Windsor Majesty River Cruiser (NCN)
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Riverliner and London Eye, Sightseeing, London (City Cruises) ©citycruises.com
Five Cruises and a River - Dinner now included in London Hotel
The River Thames, the second longest river in the UK, has many stories to tell. On this two-centre short break we reveal many stories as we take five very different, but equally relaxing cruises. These cruises call at Oxford, Reading, Windsor & central London .
Dates
14th May & 3rd September 2027
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Travel to your hotel
To start our itinerary of cruises, today we enjoy a relaxing 40 minute circular cruise on the River Thames departing from Folly Bridge in Oxford to Iffley Lock passing the university’s famous rowing clubs and Christ Church meadow. Admire your beautiful surroundings, made up of lush trees and cozy brick cottages, immersing you in the lovely old-town vibe of Oxford.
Along the way, your skipper will point out all the major sites and answer any questions you may wish to ask. Marvel at the views of Christ Church meadows, college boathouses, and a mix of wildlife and countryside, whilst enjoying your time on board.
Day 2
The Thames Valley Cruise
This 90 minute cruise will take you from Caversham Pier in Reading through twists and turns to Mapledurham Lock and Weir. Following the Thames upstream, you will see wildlife, open countryside, islands and look out towards the Berkshire Downs. The cruise will turn at Mapledurham Lock taking a panoramic view of the weir, before cruising back downstream past Mapledurham House back towards Reading. This is the river as it should be, tranquil and stunning in Wind in the Willows Country.
This afternoon we recommend taking a scenic drive following the river through Henley, Marlow, Cookham and Maidenhead.
Day 3
The Thames into Windsor
This morning we travel to Windsor for a 40 minute round trip upstream to Boveney Lock. As you glide along the water, you will see Eton College which has been attended by a whole host of well-known people including both Prince William and Prince Harry, ex-Prime Minister David Cameron and famous writers Henry Fielding and George Orwell. Other highlights of the cruise include fantastic views of Mill House, Windsor Racecourse and, of course a spectacular view of Windsor Castle.
This afternoon, we head to Hampton Court for a 45 minute cruise to Kingston. On board commentary will guide you through the scenic stretch of the river, allowing you to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere while learning about the area’s rich history and natural heritage.
Your coach will then meet you to transfer you to your London hotel, in good time for dinner!
Day 4
London to Greenwich Cruise and return home
Our final cruise takes us on a journey from Westminster to Greenwich passing many of London’s best known sights including the London Eye, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf. Once you have disembarked, there will be some free time in Greenwich, why not visit the Cutty Sark or the Royal Observatory.
Featured Hotels
Holiday Inn Reading South – Inspected by Greatdays July 2026
The Holiday Inn Reading South is conveniently located just off Junction 11 of the M4 motorway, making it an ideal base for exploring the local area.
All en-suite bedrooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, an LCD television, air-conditioning, an iron and ironing board, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Dinner will be served buffet-style each evening, with tea and coffee included.
Please note that the hotel does not have a lift. However, there are plenty of bedrooms available on the ground floor for guests who require them.
For those wishing to explore Reading independently, there is a bus stop conveniently located directly outside the hotel, providing easy access to the town centre, which takes approximately 10 minutes.
Doubletree by Hilton London Chelsea – Inspected by Greatdays August 2026
Located at Imperial Wharf, a 20 minute walk to London’s fashionable King’s Road, DoubleTree by Hilton London Chelsea offers a 24-hour reception, stylish bar and restaurant.
Day passes are available for a nearby gym.
All en-suite bedrooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, an LCD television, air-conditioning, an iron and ironing board, a cooler and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Dinner will be served buffet-style, with tea and coffee included.
There is a lift available to all floors – coach parking can also be requested (price included)
The nearest London Underground station, Imperial Wharf, is less than 5 minutes walk from the hotel.
Below dates based on 2 nights at Holiday Inn Reading South (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) & 1 night at Doubletree by Hilton London Chelsea (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Other dates are available on request.
| Dates | 4 days / 3 nights |
| 14th May 2027 | From £367.00 per person |
| 3rd September 2027 | From £362.00 per person |
