Thames River

Starting in Gloucestershire and ending at the Thames Estuary, where the river enters the North sea, the Thames is England's longest and most famous river and it has shaped the nation, its industry, its trade and its seafaring for centuries.

The names Thames is Celtic in origin and is alternatively claimed to be derived from words used in the Welsh and Irish tongues.

The Thames is 215 miles in length and it has almost 20 different towns dotted along its banks before it enters greater London. It is claimed that the river was in existence as far back as 58 million years ago, although much of the river may have taken a different path. The Thames is also tidal for about the first 55 miles of its length, one of the reasons for the construction of the now famous Thames barrier.

The river Thames is the result of more than 20 different tributaries that feed and expand it from its inland origin to its tidal exit into the sea. Along the length and varying width of the river are found more than 80 islands. Some are nothing more than protrusions of land whilst others, Monkey Island being an example, have buildings, structures and even businesses occupying them.

In times gone by the river Thames was a major transportation waterway enabling products, textiles and food to be transported into and out of London. Indeed, one of the main reasons for London’s settlement and expansion was its location around the Thames and the benefits that straddling a major waterway offered in the pre and post industrial revolution Britain.

From a London visitor's perspective the Thames not only has significance in the way that it has shaped the city, but also in the buildings and wildlife that exist on and in the immediate vicinity of the river.

Within London there are many different Thames river boat cruises and, as London is left behind, many areas around the river and its banks become a haven for many different species of birds and water dwelling mammals. The Thames is also a home to many aquatic creatures ranging from salmon, trout perch and to crabs, crayfish and frogs.

The Port of London Authority is responsible for the management of the lower section of the Thames, but other agencies and authorities also have an interest and voice in this important waterway.