Itinerary idea: rowing, history and hidden delights in Henley-on-Thames

Located in South Oxfordshire, 9 miles northeast of Reading, Henley-on-Thames is easily accessible by road or rail, just under an hour from London Paddington. Coach drop-off points are available near the town centre, and group bookings are welcomed at most major attractions.

Here’s what you could pack into a visit

10am: Begin with a gentle stroll along the beautiful Thames Path. Henley’s riverside is postcard-perfect, with elegant bridges, bobbing boats, and views that haven’t changed in centuries. It’s no surprise the town has been the setting for many period dramas.

Drop into the River & Rowing Museum to explore the town’s rowing heritage, local history, and the life and work of The Wind in the Willows author Kenneth Grahame. The museum welcomes group bookings and offers guided tours with bespoke talks on the Henley Royal Regatta or local wildlife. Or how about a round of golf at Henley Adventure Golf with Henley sights in miniature.

12pm: Henley’s charm lies in its walkable market town heart, filled with independent shops, cafes, and honey-coloured buildings. Stop by St Mary’s Church (its tower has watched over Henley for centuries), and visit the Town Hall, a striking Victorian building that often hosts exhibitions or events (also a great spot to pick up some Henley gifts, postcards and mugs). Don’t miss the Teddy Bear Shop - Asquith’s Bearpaurium on the walk between the two.

Groups can also pre-book heritage walking tours led by knowledgeable local guides to uncover Henley’s stories on Henley History Walks — from medieval merchants to Georgian high society.

Lunch: No visit to Henley is complete without lunch by the river. Try The Relais Henley for elegant dining in a former coaching inn with online booking for tables of up to 20 people, or enjoy local produce and river views at Bistro at the Boathouse.

For casual eats, Henley’s cafés, pubs and bakeries offer everything from cream teas to hearty British classics.

3pm: In the afternoon, head to Mill Meadows or take a tranquil boat trip upriver with Hobbs of Henley — ideal for spotting wildlife and watching rowers glide by. For something different, arrange a visit to the Fairmile Vineyard or take a tour and tasting at the Henley Distillery, where small-batch gins are made in traditional copper stills.

Art lovers will enjoy the Old Fire Station Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions by local and national artists. There’s always something to discover, and entry is free. Don’t miss the Gallery Singular which measures just 3 x 3 x 7 ft and will require patience by your group members!

Extend your stay

If you’re staying overnight, Henley has plenty of group-friendly accommodation options — from charming inns and boutique hotels to countryside retreats nearby. Check out Greenlands - the home of the Henley Business School, set in stunning landscapes by the river.

You could time your visit with one of the town’s celebrated annual events:

• Henley Royal Regatta (July) – world-famous rowing with a social twist.
• Henley Festival (July) – music, art and comedy under the stars.
• Henley Literary Festival (October) – a week of talks from bestselling authors.
• Henley Christmas Festival & Living Advent Calendar (December) – festive cheer all month long.