Maidstone Canoe Club

River Thames (Upper Section)

Friday 7^th July to Monday 10^th July 2017

I am organizing a four day 60 mile canoe paddle on the River Thames during July 2017.  The River Thames is a river of great character and interest!

In order to book the campsites I need to have an expression of interest.

The Plan is to paddle the upper section of the River Thames, Rushey Lock to Reading 60 miles approximately leaving the lower section for the following year.

Members can paddle, two three or the full four days depending on their holiday commitments.

Accommodation will be camping at the locks or on commercial campsites.

Sea kayaks, open canoes or day boats will be suitable for this trip.

We will transport equipment in the canoes/kayaks and will shuffle cars depending on the numbers.

The paddle will be limited to a maximum of 12 people to ensure we can be accommodated on the campsites, there are restrictions on some sites.

Members will need to be paid up BCU members and have their cards on them or will have to pay a weekly licence fee for the Thames of £18.

The Plan  (will be subject to change if we cannot book the sites.)

Thursday 6^th July camp at Rushey Lock from 4.00pm or arrive early Friday morning

Friday 7^th July paddle 14 miles to Eynsham Lock camp overnight or join for the weekend.

Saturday 8^th July paddle 19 miles to Bridge House Campsite, camp overnight.

Sunday 9^th July paddle 11miles to Bridge Villa Caravan and Camping site.

You may wish to leave or camp and stay on for the Monday.

Monday 10^th July paddle 16 miles to Reading collect cars and leave for home.

There are plenty of pubs on the Thames for the evenings and to reduce meal preparation and there are also towns on route to restock our supplies.

If you are interested in this trip please email me with the days you would like to paddle. As I have to pay a deposit to book the campsites I will need a £10 deposit to secure your place. I am at the Christmas Party to collect  any monies. Thank you

To book a place e-mail Mike at:

michael lambourne <[email protected]>;