Lechlade-on-Thames - Butterfly in garden
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Lechlade-on-Thames

4.6
·491k reviews·Lechlade, United Kingdom

Charming riverside town, the highest navigable point on the River Thames, perfect for boating, walks, and cozy pubs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Lechlade-on-Thames - Butterfly in garden

Lechlade-on-Thames

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charming riverside town, the highest navigable point on the River Thames, perfect for boating, walks, and cozy pubs.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A quintessential English riverside escape with stunning views and delicious food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛶 Paddleboard the Thames

Head to Lechlade and paddleboard the Thames! Great for families and dogs. :athletic_shoe:

☕ Coffee & Dog Walks

Enjoy coffee at Lynwood & Co with your furry friend. They even have dog-friendly treats! :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The River Thames

The River Thames

Various points along the river

Explore the source of Britain's most famous river, perfect for boating, paddleboarding, and riverside walks.

Reddit
St. Lawrence's Church

St. Lawrence's Church

Church Street

A beautiful medieval church with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. A true gem.

TikTok
New Wave Brasserie

New Wave Brasserie

The Riverside

Indulge in delicious seafood and local fare with picturesque river views. A must-visit for foodies!

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the River Life

Lechlade-on-Thames is all about the river! Whether you're keen on boating, paddleboarding, or just a scenic riverside stroll, plan your visit around the Thames. Check local tide times and weather forecasts, especially if you're planning water activities. Reddit

Book Ahead for Popular Spots

Accommodation and popular pubs, especially The New Inn, can get booked up quickly, particularly during peak season. Consider booking your stay and dining reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters, best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn weekends
Why
Beautiful foliage, cozy pubs
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Day 3 was tough going. Tall reeds, brambles and so so many fallen trees! I’m attempting to travel source to sea down the River Thames. 210 miles of wading, swimming (!) and kayaking down quite possibly the busiest river in Britain. And I’m doing the whole thing alone and self-supported. The rule I’ve set myself for this mission is this: ‘in order to make progress I have to follow the course of th...
@mredpratt
289.1K likes • 5M views

🛶 Paddleboard the Thames

Head to Lechlade and paddleboard the Thames! Great for families and dogs. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

☕ Coffee & Dog Walks

Enjoy coffee at Lynwood & Co with your furry friend. They even have dog-friendly treats! Instagram :dog:

jon my driver gave me so many tips and tricks on what to do and where to go! 🫶🏻📍
@tabithaswatosh
102.7K likes • 699.3K views
If you love eating fish but haven’t visited @newwavebrasserielechlade yet… WHAT ARE YOU PLAYING AT? 😯 It. is. excellent. Deciding what to order is a tricky business though, some seriously strong contenders on that menu, but we went for: 🔹 Sourdough with seaweed butter 🔹 Taramasalata & crispy fish skins 🔹 Oysters (not for me but told nice) 🔹 Mussels 🔹 Dressed crab 🔹 Potatoes with seaweed butt...
witneyrated
103 likes • 4.7K views

🍽️ Book Pubs in Advance

Popular spots like The New Inn get busy. Reserve your table to avoid missing out! TikTok :knifeforkplate:

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Walks

Explore scenic walks along the Thames path. Perfect for a leisurely day out. TikTok :walking:

Went for coffee today with mum and dad at @lynwoodandco #letchlade. I hate this harness thing but I tried sausage and bacon today… amazing #brusselsgriffon #brusselsgriffonstagram #grumpygriffons #griffonbruxellois
jean.claude.gram.spam
31 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛶 Paddleboard the Thames

Head to Lechlade and paddleboard the Thames! Great for families and dogs. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

☕ Coffee & Dog Walks

Enjoy coffee at Lynwood & Co with your furry friend. They even have dog-friendly treats! Instagram :dog:

🍽️ Book Pubs in Advance

Popular spots like The New Inn get busy. Reserve your table to avoid missing out! TikTok :knifeforkplate:

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Walks

Explore scenic walks along the Thames path. Perfect for a leisurely day out. TikTok :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lechlade-on-Thames is cherished for its idyllic riverside setting and opportunities for outdoor activities like boating and walking. Visitors rave about the charming pubs and restaurants, particularly the seafood at New Wave Brasserie. Some find parking can be challenging during peak times, and booking ahead for popular eateries is highly recommended.

What People Like

Beautiful riverside location
Great for boating and walking
Excellent food and pubs

What People Dislike

Busy parking during peak
Need to book popular spots

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lechlade-on-Thames is accessible by car via the A417. The nearest train station is Swindon, approximately 10 miles away, from where you can take a taxi or bus. TikTok

Yes, there are several car parks available in Lechlade, including near the riverside and town center. Parking can be busy during peak times. TikTok

Bus services connect Lechlade to surrounding towns like Swindon and Cirencester. Check local bus timetables for specific routes and times. TikTok

The town center is very walkable, and many attractions are along the river. For exploring further afield, consider cycling or driving. TikTok

The A417 is the primary road leading to Lechlade-on-Thames. It connects to major routes like the M4 and M5 motorways. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most attractions in Lechlade, such as riverside walks and the church, are free to access. Some boat hire or specific activities may have fees. Reddit

St. Lawrence's Church is generally open daily during daylight hours. It's advisable to check for any specific service times or closures. TikTok

Access to the public riverbanks and Thames path is typically free. Campsites like Bridge House may have fees for overnight stays. Reddit

It's recommended to book boat hire, especially during busy periods, to secure your preferred vessel and time slot. TikTok

No, Lechlade-on-Thames is a town, and there is no general entrance fee to visit or explore it. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Enjoy riverside activities like paddleboarding and boating, explore scenic walks, visit St. Lawrence's Church, and dine at local pubs and restaurants. InstagramReddit

Yes, Lechlade offers lovely walks along the Thames path, with options for short strolls or longer hikes. TikTok

Lechlade is very dog-friendly! Many pubs, cafes, and walking routes welcome dogs. Instagram

You can go paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating on the River Thames. Boat hire is available from several riverside locations. Reddit

The Thames foreshore can yield historical finds, with mudlarking being a popular activity for discovering items from the past. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Popular pubs include The New Inn, known for its food and atmosphere, and The Trout Inn. Booking ahead is advised. TikTokInstagram

New Wave Brasserie offers excellent seafood, and various pubs provide traditional British cuisine. Instagram

Many pubs and restaurants offer vegetarian options, and some are increasingly catering to vegan diets. It's best to check menus or call ahead. Instagram

Yes, cafes like Lynwood & Co offer coffee, pastries, and light meals, perfect for a break during your visit. Instagram

Dining prices are typical for a popular tourist town. Pub meals offer good value, while more specialized restaurants may be pricier. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The River Thames, St. Lawrence's Church, and the picturesque bridges offer fantastic photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted inside St. Lawrence's Church for personal use, but always be respectful of worshippers and any posted signage. TikTok

No specific restrictions apply to general photography along the public riverbanks. However, be mindful of private property and individuals. TikTok

A versatile lens is useful for landscapes and town shots. A polarizing filter can enhance river and sky photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lechlade-on-Thames is a fantastic destination for families. The gentle flow of the River Thames makes it ideal for paddleboarding and boating with children, offering a safe and fun way to explore the water. Reddit Many riverside pubs and cafes are dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join in the fun too! Instagram Consider packing picnic supplies for a relaxed lunch by the river, or enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere at pubs like The New Inn. TikTok The town is very walkable, making it easy to navigate with little ones.

🐶 Dog Owners

Lechlade-on-Thames is a paradise for dog owners! The extensive riverside walks along the Thames path are perfect for long strolls with your canine companion. TikTok Many local pubs, such as Lynwood & Co and The New Inn, are welcoming to dogs, often providing water bowls and sometimes even treats. TikTokInstagram The open spaces and natural environment offer plenty of opportunities for your dog to explore and enjoy themselves. Just remember to keep them on a lead where necessary and clean up after them.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Hikers

For those who love to explore on foot, Lechlade-on-Thames offers scenic walks along the Thames Path. TikTok These routes are generally well-maintained and provide beautiful views of the river and surrounding countryside. You can opt for short, leisurely strolls or combine sections for a longer day hike. TikTok The town itself is also pleasant to wander through, with its historic church and charming riverside setting. Don't forget to wear comfortable walking shoes and check the weather before you set off.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the River Thames

Lechlade-on-Thames is famously known as the highest point on the River Thames that is navigable by vessels. This unique position makes it a prime spot for a variety of water-based activities. Whether you're looking to hire a boat for a leisurely cruise, try your hand at paddleboarding, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbanks, the Thames here offers a quintessential English riverside experience. Reddit Many visitors enjoy the tranquility and the opportunity to see the river's source. TikTok

For those interested in a more active adventure, paddleboarding is a popular choice, with many recommending it as a fantastic way to explore the calmer stretches of the river. Reddit If you're planning a longer stay, consider camping at sites like Bridge House Campsite, which offers direct access to the river. TikTok Remember to check local conditions and hire companies for the best experience. Reddit

Beyond active pursuits, the riverside setting provides ample opportunities for relaxation. Enjoy a picnic by the water, watch the boats glide by, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere. The Thames path offers well-maintained routes for walkers of all abilities, making it accessible for families and individuals alike. TikTok

Culinary Delights in Lechlade

Lechlade-on-Thames boasts a charming culinary scene, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional pub fare. New Wave Brasserie has garnered significant praise for its excellent seafood offerings, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate quality fish dishes. Instagram The restaurant's riverside location adds to the dining experience, providing picturesque views as you enjoy your meal. Instagram

For a more traditional pub experience, The New Inn is a highly recommended establishment. It's known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious food, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. TikTok It's advisable to book a table in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you can enjoy their offerings. TikTok Other pubs like The Trout Inn also offer a taste of local hospitality and cuisine. TikTok

Beyond the main dining spots, cafes like Lynwood & Co provide a more casual setting for coffee, light bites, and treats. They are also noted for being particularly dog-friendly, offering a welcoming environment for visitors with pets. Instagram This variety ensures that Lechlade can cater to different tastes and preferences, from fine dining to casual cafe stops.

Discovering History on the Foreshore

The River Thames, flowing through Lechlade-on-Thames, is not just a scenic waterway but also a historical treasure trove. The foreshore, particularly during low tide, can reveal fascinating artifacts from centuries past. Mudlarking, the practice of searching the riverbed for historical items, is a unique activity that can uncover everything from ancient pottery shards to Victorian-era bottles. TikTok

One remarkable find mentioned was a complete torpedo bottle with its cork, potentially dating back over 150 years. TikTok Such discoveries highlight the rich history embedded within the river's sediment. While not everyone will find such rare items, the act of exploring the foreshore itself offers a tangible connection to the past. TikTok

For those interested in history, a visit to St. Lawrence's Church provides a glimpse into the town's medieval heritage. The church's architecture and historical significance offer a different, yet equally compelling, perspective on Lechlade's past. TikTok

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