Colin Crosby Heritage Tours

Henley-on-Thames

Henley-on-Thames is a pleasant riverside town in Oxfordshire, on a lovely stretch of the River Thames and on the edge of the Chiltern Hills. It is 6 miles from Reading.

Henley is home to the world's best known rowing regatta, held annually in the first week of July. The first Oxford v Cambridge boat race was held here in 1829.

There are a good number of old buildings dating from as far back as the 14th century.

St. Mary's Church is in the decorated and perpendicular styles. Richard Jennings, master builder of St. Pauls Cathedral, is buried in the churchyard.

A fine bridge over the river, crossing into Berkshire, was built by William Hayward in 1786, aided by the sculptress Anne Damer, a friend of Napoleon.

The Victorian Town Hall stands at the top of the gently rising main street.

Michael Heseltine was succeeded as Conservative M. P. in 1999 by Boris Johnson.

The River and Rowing Museum is situated at Henley, with displays about the sport and about the career of Sir Steve Redgrave, winner of a Gold Medal at five consecutive Olympic Games.

Blue Badge Guide Colin Crosby is available to lead Guided Walks around Henley-on-Thames for groups.