Free walking guide covers one of the most idyllic parts of the Thames Path National Trail
Londoners hoping to ‘escape to the country’ this summer need look no further than the banks of the River Thames, thanks to a new, free walking guide covering one of the most idyllic parts of the Thames Path National Trail.
‘Explore London’s Rural River Thames’, a light, foldaway map featuring twelve gentle walks between Teddington and Chelsea, reveals the scenic splendour of West London’s Thames Path, with its tranquil stretch of river bordered by historic gardens, spacious parks and nature reserves – including the palace gardens of Hampton Court, Kew and Fulham, Brentford’s 200-acre Syon Park, Barnes’ Wetlands Centre and Richmond’s Petersham Meadow, which is protected by a unique Act of Parliament of 1902.
Split into 6 sections for both the north and south banks of the river, the guide also pinpoints the architectural highlights, visitor attractions and refreshment stops en route, and suggests circular walks so that walkers and families can enjoy a full day out.
The aim of the guide, which is the third publication to cover London’s section of the Thames Path, is to promote the use of walking as an alternative form of transport within the capital, and to draw attention to the value of the River Thames and the Thames Path as cultural and leisure destinations in their own right. The guide is funded by Transport for London, and is available at all visitor centres.
Roger Weston, chairman of the Thames Strategy - Kew to Chelsea (TSKC) says, “It’s easy to forget that we live in a city boasting some wonderful green spaces, where people can escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and enjoy the health benefits of travelling on foot. As this guide shows, the section of the River Thames running from Hampton Court to Chelsea and Battersea boasts a wonderful mix of creeks and harbours, embankments and malls, piers and parks, with historic palaces and gardens dotted along the way. Whether you’re looking for a fun family day out, or a serious walk, this idyllic stretch of the Thames Path has something for everyone.”
Anyone wishing to receive a copy of the guide should go to their nearest visitor centre, or contact Transport for London’s leaflet service: www.tfl.gov.uk/walking or tel. 0870 240 6094.
Anyone wishing to learn more about the Thames Strategies – ‘Hampton to Kew’ and ‘Kew to Chelsea’ – and the long-term programme of care and improvements to enhance the river and its surroundings should visit www.thames-landscape-strategy.org.uk and www.thamesstrategy-kewtochelsea.org.uk
March 26, 2007