Henley-on-Thames is a picturesque market town alongside the River Thames in Oxfordshire, just outside Wokingham and Reading. It’s known for its rich history, stunning scenery and Henley Royal Regatta. Henley offers a lovely place to visit for families. Read on for 10 family friendly things to do in Henley on Thames.
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Family Friendly Things to do in Henley on Thames
1. Visiting the River & Rowing Museum
The River & Rowing Museum is a fantastic place for families to learn about the history of the Thames, rowing, and the local area. The museum features interactive exhibits and a dedicated children’s area, the Wind in the Willows exhibit. We love visiting in the school holidays when the Museum puts on some great family-friendly activities and often get the chance to see Mr Toad. There is a café and gift shop, plus access and views to the River Thames across Mill Meadows.
2. Explore Mill Meadows
Mill Meadows is a lovely place for families, alongside the river. There is a large open field, bandstand, cafes, adventure golf and two play areas. The Adventure Play Area and the Junior Adventure Play Area.
3. Play Henley Adventure Golf
At Mill Meadows, next to the play areas, you will find Henley Adventure Golf. The Golf Course is an 18 hole course. The course takes you around the landmarks of Henley-on-Thames.
4. Take a River Cruise
Experience the beauty of Henley from the water by taking a river cruise. Several companies offer family-friendly cruises including Hobbs of Henley.
5. Visit the Kenton Theatre
The Kenton Theatre is the fourth oldest working theatre in the UK. Keep an eye out for their family-friendly shows, we particularly enjoy their pantomime.
6. Visit The Cheese Shed
The Cheese Shed in Nettlebed, just outside Henley-on-Thames, is definitely worth a visit. Their cheese toasties are just delicious and the barn where you eat your toasties makes for a wonderful setting. You can also enjoy a series of walks from the Cheese Shed and they run events for families in the school holidays.
You can read about our visit here.
7. Take a Trip to Tumblestone Hollow and Stonor Park
The historic house at Stonor Park and deer park offer plenty to explore. We love exploring Tumblestone Hollow which is based in the woods at Stonor Park. The adventure play areas offer a wonderful large wood play frame to explore, complete with woodhouse in the top of the trees, slides, tunnels and plenty of opportunity to climb. There is also a zip wire, sandpit and water play area. Plus you can get refreshments from the Rumble Hut and the pizza and ice creams are particularly good!
You can read about our visit to Tumblestone Hollow here.
8. Walk along the Thames Path
The Thames Path offers scenic walking routes that are suitable for all ages. Take a leisurely walk along the river, enjoy the views, and perhaps stop for a riverside picnic. The path is well-maintained and provides plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and boats on the river.
Click here to discover the walk we did from Mill Meadows to Marsh Lock.
9. Feed the Swans, Geese and Ducks
Henley-on-Thames sits on the River Thames, so why not head to the river and feed the birds.
10. Visit Toad Hall Garden Centre
The garden centre can be found a few minutes away from the town centre. They have a café and the Christmas display we have seen in the past have always been lovely to see.
11. Mill Meadows Wildlife Trail
This trail is a lovely way to explore the park and takes in the stream and grassland. You can find out more about it here.
What Else?
Local Events;
There are several great events which take place in Henley-on-Thames annually including; Swan Upping, The Henley Literary Festival, Christmas Festival, Henley Royal Regatta, Henley Festival. Also check out the Henley Female Network which meet once a month.
Where to Park;
River and Rowing Museum Car Park – RG9 1BF
Henley-on-Thames Station Car Park – RG9 1AY
Mill Meadows Car Park – RG9 1BF
Market Place Car Park – RG9 2AA
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