180 miles, 288 km, 15 days

National Trail

Imagine you start your walk early in the morning, inhalating the sparkling smell of damp leaves, listening to the rooster's crow, and gradually you enter a totally different world, the bustle of a big city, the dirt and noise of an urban landscape. A wonderful transition.

Such a path is the Thames Path, a National Trail of 180 miles, 288 km long. The path starts at the Thames Barrier, which will hopefully protect London against the rising seas. The first day's walk to the west, along the meandering River Thames, will bring you into the very heart of London. And eleven days later, at least if you go move on, your walk will end at the source of the Thames, in the pretty Cotswolds, near Thames Head.

In the 19th century there was a towpath all along the River. These paths, on which the horses walked pulling boats, had fallen into disuse in the course of time. To create our Thames Path, the towpaths were restored, a costly operation. Where ferries are absence in these days, new foot bridges have been constructed.

Besides London, you will pass through many other cities. Oxford is one of them. If you are the guy or girl who loves exploring cities and historic buildings, eleven days will not be enough to finish this hike.

During your walk you will see a variety of boats and vessels on England's Royal River. Not for commercial use or even raids, as it was long ago, but for enjoyment only.