Thames Valley Park Paddle Trail

1 hours

Duration

3 miles

Distance

Out and Back

Easy

Difficulty

RG6 1PQ

Start Postcode

RG6 1PQ

End Postcode

A. Launch from the slipway at the waterside centre and turn right, downstream towards Sonnig Lock.

B. This section is known Dreadnought Reach. As you go downstream to your left is the Caversham Rowing Lakes, otherwise known as the Redgrave -Pinsent Rowing Lake.

C. You will paddle along a peaceful stretch of the Thames, with trees to one side and open parkland to the other, until you reach Sonnig Lock at around 1.5 miles.

D. Sonning Lock is a particularly pretty lock. During the summer months refreshments are available in Sonnig Lock Gardens on the lock island. If you would like to get out for refreshments paddle portage is clearly marked on the right-hand side as you enter the lock.

E. When you decide to return upstream put back in at the same place you got out and enjoy the sheer beauty and diverse wildlife of the area as you meander back to the start point.

Discover More

Wokingham Waterside Centre; this is a water sports and conference venue which is a completely self-funded registered charity.

The centre is at the Reading end of the A329M. There is a huge field for picnics here too and an easy put-in. The car park has a height restriction, but you can easily park on the road if needed.

Sonning Lock; There was a form of weir – probably a flash lock – here at Sonning way back in the 1500s. The first pound lock was established in 1773, built in fir wood by the Thames Navigation Commissioners. It wasn’t long before it was rebuilt in oak as fir was found to be unsuitable. During the winter of 2004-5, the existing pre-1970s wooden gates were replaced with new steel gates.

There has been a mill at Sonning for centuries- three mills are described in the Domesday Book of 1086. In the 1700s, the owner, William Billingshurst, spent £60 a year keeping the floodgates and engines in repair.

To the right of the lock is the picturesque village of Sonning.

Redgrave – Pinsent Rowing Lake; Named after Sir Steve Redgrave and Sir Matthew Pinsent, this lake and its boathouse were specifically designed for training use and provide facilities for the GB rowing squad.

More about Sonning Lock

Licence Information

The waterways in this trail are managed by the Environment Agency, and it is a requirement for paddlers to hold a licence. Paddle UK’s On The Water membership includes an annual licence for here as well as other waterways.

When paddling, have your membership card with you as proof of licence; otherwise, you could face a fine. Get your digital membership card straight away with your licence and liability insurance included from www.paddleuk.org.uk.

JOIN PADDLE UK

Safety Information

We want you to have fun and a safe paddle! Here are some helpful tips to ensure you paddle responsibly and stay safe on your journey. Please take a moment to review these important safety tips:

– Always wear a correctly sized buoyancy aid

– Carry a mobile phone – in a waterproof case

– Tell Someone Where You’re Going

– Check the weather and conditions

– Know your limits

Check out some useful blogs and e-learnings on how to keep safe

Environment

Wherever and however you paddle, our Paddlers’ Code helps to ensure we can all enjoy and share the water safely and protect our precious environment.

Don’t get sick doing what you love. We know water quality is a concern for many paddlers. Click here for some simple advice on water quality and how to protect yourself.

Get informed, stay safe and make good decisions by checking the National Storm Overflow Map

Paddlers can play a vital role in keeping our waters free of harmful non-native species. It is crucial you Check, Clean and Dry you boat and equipment to prevent the spread. Click here for more information on Invasive Non-Native Species.

For more environmental advice and guidance, see our Blue Space Blogs section on the Paddle UK website.