Thames Head Trewsbury Mead
The symbolic source of the River Thames, a humble collection of stones marking the beginning of a 210-mile journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Water flow is strongest
Thames Head Trewsbury Mead
Best Time
Water flow is strongest
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The symbolic source of the River Thames, a humble collection of stones marking the beginning of a 210-mile journey.
"It's the official source of the River Thames, and that makes the place impressive, magical, and deeply meaningful to me. "
💧 Water Levels Vary
Don't expect a large river! The source can be dry in summer. Best seen after rain. :sweat_drops:
🚶♀️ Start Your Thames Path Walk
This is the symbolic start of the famous Thames Path. Perfect for long-distance walkers! :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Official Source Spring
Near Kemble, Gloucestershire
The symbolic starting point of the River Thames, marked by stones and often a small puddle.
The Thames Path Start
Adjacent to the source
Begin your iconic walk along the Thames Path, a journey of 210 miles to the sea.
Beautiful Surrounding Landscape
Cotswolds countryside
Enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Cotswolds as you begin your Thames adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Source: More Than Just a Puddle
Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Water Levels Vary
Don't expect a large river! The source can be dry in summer. Best seen after rain. :sweat_drops:
🚶♀️ Start Your Thames Path Walk
This is the symbolic start of the famous Thames Path. Perfect for long-distance walkers! :hiking_boot:
🗺️ Easy to Find
Clear footpath fingerposts make finding the source straightforward. :round_pushpin:
🏞️ Enjoy the Scenery
The surrounding Cotswolds landscape is beautiful and worth appreciating. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Water Levels Vary
Don't expect a large river! The source can be dry in summer. Best seen after rain. :sweat_drops:
🚶♀️ Start Your Thames Path Walk
This is the symbolic start of the famous Thames Path. Perfect for long-distance walkers! :hiking_boot:
🗺️ Easy to Find
Clear footpath fingerposts make finding the source straightforward. :round_pushpin:
🏞️ Enjoy the Scenery
The surrounding Cotswolds landscape is beautiful and worth appreciating. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Thames Head to be a place of symbolic importance rather than visual grandeur. While the actual source can be underwhelming, especially in dry seasons, its status as the origin of the River Thames and the beautiful surrounding Cotswolds landscape are highly appreciated. Many come here to begin their journey along the Thames Path, finding the experience meaningful and inspiring. +1
"There isn’t actually much to see here. In the summer months, the groundwater level of the spring is too low, so no water is visible at all. It’s just a pile of stones, where a small puddle appears after heavy rain or during the winter months.
But this is the official source of the River Thames, and that makes the place impressive, magical, and deeply meaningful to me.
The surrounding landscape is also simply beautiful.
If you follow the Thames Path southward, after crossing the main road, you can walk along the dry riverbed of the young Thames. Depending on the time of year, you may walk several kilometres before the water finally emerges at the surface.
I was deeply moved and filled with awe by this marvellous place."
Stefan Gurtner
"I had the most unique experience of walking the Thames path across London west end to east end. It took me 8 hours to walk across London city, As a long distance walker I do enjoy it a lot. And this Thames path is fantastic"
Terra Ferme
"Visited here to start our Thames Path walk. Not much to see, but it’s the symbolic start of the Thames Path!"
Dan P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thames Head is located near the village of Kemble in Gloucestershire. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. For those using public transport, Kemble train station is a good starting point, and you can then follow the Thames Path or local footpaths to reach the source.
Kemble train station is the closest public transport hub. From there, it's a walk to the source.
Cycling routes are available in the Cotswolds area, but direct access to the immediate source might be limited to footpaths. Check local cycling maps for best routes. :bicycle:
The nearest village is Kemble. Larger towns nearby include Cirencester and Stroud, offering more amenities and accommodation options. :housewithgarden:
Yes, the area is generally well-signposted, especially if you are following the Thames Path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the source of the River Thames is free. It's a natural landmark. :ticket:
As a natural outdoor location, Thames Head is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. :sunrise:
The Thames Path is a public right of way, and there is no fee to start your walk from the source. :moneywithwings:
Yes, you can visit year-round. However, the visibility of the water at the source varies significantly with the seasons.
Please respect the natural environment and stick to marked paths. There are no specific entry restrictions. :earth_americas:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The 'source' is marked by a circle of stones and is often just a small puddle or dry in summer. Its significance is symbolic as the start of the River Thames. The surrounding Cotswolds countryside is beautiful.
Absolutely! It's the official starting point for the Thames Path, a long-distance walking route. The initial section can be a dry riverbed. +1
Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots, especially if you plan to walk along the Thames Path. Layers are advisable as the weather can change. :athletic_shoe:
There are no facilities directly at the source itself. You'll need to use facilities in nearby Kemble or other villages. :toilet:
Most visitors spend a short time (30-60 minutes) to see the source and perhaps start their walk. If you're embarking on the Thames Path, your visit will be much longer. :stopwatch:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the symbolic stone circle marking the source, the start of the Thames Path, and the picturesque Cotswolds landscape. The changing water levels can also make for interesting shots.
Yes, the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for landscape and nature photography, especially during different seasons. :camerawithflash:
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for landscape shots in the Cotswolds.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Always check and adhere to any restrictions before flying. :aerial_drone:
The main 'iconic' spot is the source itself. The start of the Thames Path also offers a good photo opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Long-Distance Walkers & Hikers
🌍 Geography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey from Source to Sea
Travelers like @mredpratt on TikTok have documented incredible solo expeditions, highlighting the challenges and rewards of traversing the entire river.
Understanding that the source is just the beginning of a much grander adventure is key to appreciating Thames Head. It's a place that inspires journeys, whether you're walking a few miles or attempting the full source-to-sea expedition.
Understanding the Thames Head 'Source'
Despite its modest appearance, the location is officially recognized as the source, making it a significant spot for those interested in geography and the origins of major rivers.
For many, the true 'source' experience involves walking along the dry riverbed, following the nascent Thames downstream until the water becomes a consistent flow. This journey emphasizes the gradual formation of the river and the interconnectedness of the landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit