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Thames

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description Thames Overview

The River Thames is a major river of southern England, flowing about 346 kilometers from the Cotswolds through Oxford, Reading, Windsor, and London before entering the North Sea through the Thames Estuary. It has long supported transport, trade, settlement, water supply, and recreation. The river also hosts the annual men's and women's Boat Races between Oxford and Cambridge, normally contested on the tidal section in southwest London.

help Thames FAQ

How long is the River Thames?

The River Thames is approximately 346 kilometers (215 miles) long, making it the longest river entirely in England. It flows east across southern England from its source in Gloucestershire before emptying into the North Sea.

Where does the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race take place on the Thames?

The historic annual Boat Race takes place on a 4.2-mile stretch of the tidal Thames in West London. The championship course runs between Putney and Mortlake, a tradition that dates back to 1829.

Can you walk along the entire River Thames?

Yes, hikers can traverse the Thames Path, a National Trail that roughly follows the river from its source in Kemble to the Thames Barrier in London. The entire walking route covers about 184 miles of southern England's landscape.

Is it safe to swim in the River Thames?

Swimming in the central parts of the Thames in London is strictly prohibited due to dangerous tidal currents, cold water shock, and heavy boat traffic. However, organized, supervised swimming events do occur in cleaner, slower-moving upstream sections outside the city.

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