
River & Rowing Museum
Celebrate the rich heritage of rowing and the River Thames in this architecturally unique museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

River & Rowing Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Celebrate the rich heritage of rowing and the River Thames in this architecturally unique museum.
"A magical museum with exhibits that are brilliant for kids and adults alike."

Magical Audio Tour
Don't miss the 'Wind in the Willows' audio tour; it's truly magical and captivating! :star:
Family Fun Guaranteed
Engaging exhibits for kids and adults alike, making it a brilliant family outing. :familywwomanboy:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Wind in the Willows
Dedicated Gallery
Step into a magical world with this immersive audio-guided tour, a hit with all ages.

Rowing Galleries
Upstairs Galleries
Discover the fascinating global history of rowing and its connection to the Thames.

River Thames Exhibits
Main Galleries
Explore the rich heritage and diverse life of the iconic River Thames.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Thames
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What to do in Henley?
Magical Audio Tour
Don't miss the 'Wind in the Willows' audio tour; it's truly magical and captivating! :star:
Family Fun Guaranteed
Engaging exhibits for kids and adults alike, making it a brilliant family outing. :familywwomanboy:
Combine with a Walk
Pair your museum visit with a stroll along the beautiful Thames Path. :walking:
Cafe Delights
The cafe is well-regarded with good food and drink choices. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Magical Audio Tour
Don't miss the 'Wind in the Willows' audio tour; it's truly magical and captivating! :star:
Family Fun Guaranteed
Engaging exhibits for kids and adults alike, making it a brilliant family outing. :familywwomanboy:
Combine with a Walk
Pair your museum visit with a stroll along the beautiful Thames Path. :walking:
Cafe Delights
The cafe is well-regarded with good food and drink choices. :coffee:
Convenient Location
Easy access via train, walking, cycling, and parking. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the River & Rowing Museum for its engaging exhibits, particularly the magical 'Wind in the Willows' audio tour, and its fascinating exploration of river and rowing history. The venue is also lauded as a beautiful and well-managed space for events. While generally well-received, some note that admission prices can be a consideration.
"My 8 year old son gave it a “mega brilliant 5 billion stars” review. I thoroughly enjoyed it too. The Wind in the Willows audio guided tour shouldn’t be missed, it’s magical and beautifully constructed. The river and rowing galleries upstairs are surprisingly fascinating. There’s an excellent collection of everything river and rowing related from across the world. Clearly they’ve worked hard to make it interesting for kids and adults alike. Plus have things and areas for lots of different age groups as well. We spent so long in the museum we didn’t have time to try the cafe, but it looked good too. Plus it’s conveniently located for the train, walking, cycling and parking. Definitely 5 stars."
Stephen Harness
"A magical museum...the wind in the willows part is like a fairy land and well worth a visit. We also really enjoyed the rowing section and the amazing history of the Thames. We went free with the art card as I think it's expensive to enter otherwise. Great museum and well worth a visit."
Rachael Spencer
"Super museum with so much to see and learn about. Good cafe with wide food/drink choices. Friendly and very helpful staff. Great for a rainy day, but even better with a walk along the Thames towpath"
Sharon Davey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located near Henley-on-Thames train station, making it easily accessible by public transport. There's also ample parking available if you're driving, and it's a pleasant walk or cycle from the town center along the Thames Path.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the museum, which is a great convenience for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The museum is a short and scenic walk from Henley town center, especially if you take the Thames Path.
The closest train station is Henley-on-Thames, which offers good connections. From the station, it's a short walk to the museum.
The museum is designed to be accessible, with good layout for all ages and abilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum generally has good opening hours, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on river and rowing museum opening times before your visit.
Admission prices can vary, and some visitors mention it can be expensive if not using a pass. Check the official website for current river and rowing museum prices.
Some visitors have mentioned using an 'art card' for free entry, suggesting potential membership benefits or special passes that could offer discounts.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, booking tickets online in advance is often recommended for popular attractions to save time and guarantee entry.
Yes, the museum collaborates with artists for exhibitions, offering a dynamic experience beyond its permanent collections.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore fascinating galleries on rowing history, the River Thames, and enjoy the magical 'Wind in the Willows' exhibition. There are also rotating art exhibitions.
Yes, it's highly recommended for children, with interactive elements and engaging displays that have earned 'mega brilliant' reviews.
Visitors have spent a considerable amount of time, suggesting you could easily dedicate several hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the cafe.
The 'Wind in the Willows' audio-guided tour is a standout feature and highly recommended for an immersive experience.
The atmosphere is often described as magical and fascinating, with a blend of educational content and enchanting displays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe that is well-regarded for its good selection of food and drink choices.
The cafe offers a wide range of food and drink options, making it a pleasant spot to relax during your visit.
While not explicitly stated, many museum cafes allow external visitors. It's worth checking their policy if you wish to visit the cafe separately.
Being in Henley-on-Thames, there are numerous other cafes, pubs, and restaurants within walking distance if you prefer to dine elsewhere.
The cafe seems to cater to both, offering a place to grab a coffee after a walk or enjoy a more substantial meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's generally permitted for personal use, but check for any restrictions on flash photography or specific exhibits.
The 'Wind in the Willows' gallery offers unique, whimsical photo opportunities. The exterior architecture and riverside location also provide scenic backdrops.
While personal photos are usually fine, commercial photography or filming might require prior permission. Always check the museum's guidelines.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for indoor exhibits. A smartphone with a decent camera will also capture most displays well.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around museum grounds for safety and privacy reasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the museum's convenient location, ample parking, and the availability of a good cafe for refreshments. It's a perfect spot for a rainy day outing or a fun-filled family day trip, offering a blend of learning and enjoyment that makes for a memorable experience. The museum's layout is also designed to be accessible and fun for younger visitors.
Budget Travelers
To maximize value, consider combining your museum visit with a free walk along the Thames Path, which offers beautiful scenery and a chance to enjoy the riverside atmosphere without extra cost. The museum's cafe also provides a good option for a reasonably priced meal or snack, potentially saving money compared to dining out in Henley.
Couples & Day-Trippers
Enjoy a relaxed coffee or lunch at the museum's cafe, or explore the dining options in Henley-on-Thames. The museum's convenient location near the train station also makes it an easy addition to a day out in the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of 'The Wind in the Willows'
This particular exhibit is designed to be engaging for a wide range of ages, ensuring that families can enjoy it together. The 'fairy land' quality of the exhibit is frequently mentioned, suggesting a thoughtfully designed space that sparks imagination. It’s a testament to the museum's effort to make history and literature accessible and exciting for everyone.
Beyond the storytelling, the exhibit showcases the museum's commitment to creating diverse and captivating experiences. It’s not just about static displays; it’s about creating an emotional connection with the stories and the river environment they represent. This focus on narrative and atmosphere sets the 'Wind in the Willows' gallery apart as a truly special attraction.
Exploring the River Thames Heritage
The museum effectively captures the essence of the Thames, from its historical importance to its contemporary life. Displays cover various aspects, including the evolution of boats, famous river events, and the natural environment of the river. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of why the Thames is such a vital artery.
This focus on the river's heritage is a core part of the museum's mission, aiming to keep the education and appreciation of the river alive. It’s a place where you can gain a profound appreciation for the waterway that has shaped so much of the region's history and culture.
A Venue for Special Occasions
Guests consistently compliment the venue for offering 'so much more' than a typical event space. The ample space within the venue, combined with its proximity to river activities and children's entertainment, makes it a win for guests of all ages. The passionate team at the RRM ensures that every event is memorable and tailored to the couple's desires.
The museum's commitment to preserving the heritage of the river and rowing also extends to its event hosting. By choosing the RRM for a special occasion, couples are not only celebrating their union but also contributing to the cause of keeping river education alive. It's a venue that offers both beauty and purpose.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit