Rising in Northamptonshire and flowing through the pretty Oxfordshire countryside, the River Cherwell is a gem in the crown of rural England.
This pretty, slow flowing, tree lined river stretches for 40 miles all the way to Oxford where it joins the river Thames.
It is suitable for paddlers looking for a rural adventure, with lush green river banks and plenty of places to stop and admire the beauty of the countryside along the way.
Things to see on the River Cherwell
As you paddle towards Banbury, a historic market town not far from the Cotswolds, you will be greeted with a variety of interesting shops and cafes… the perfect places to stop along route!
Although nothing remains of the castle today, you will paddle past the site of the castle, built in 1135 which became a royalist stronghold during the English Civil War. Look out for the mill building and miller’s cottage near to where the castle once stood.
Due to the slow, steady nature of the river it’s only really suitable for paddlers looking for a quiet paddle, white water enthusiasts will want to look elsewhere. But if you are looking for a little adventure, as the river is quite shallow and narrow in parts, it means when you do paddle it you’re likely to have it all to yourselves.