Lower Shiplake · Oxfordshire · River Thames

Henley Paddle
& Cycle Hire

Explore the iconic Thames at your own pace

Glide along one of England's most celebrated stretches of river, or explore the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside by bike. Premium paddle boards, sit-on kayaks and bicycles available daily.

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The River Thames at Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
The Henley Reach · River Thames · Oxfordshire
The Famous Henley Reach

Where History Meets the Water

The River Thames at Henley-on-Thames is one of England's most storied stretches of water. Here, at the Henley Reach — a naturally straight, mile-long section where the river forms the county boundary between Berkshire and Oxfordshire — the world's most prestigious rowing competition has been held since 1839.

The Henley Royal Regatta, which received its royal designation when Prince Albert became patron in 1851, draws over 300,000 visitors every year in the first week of July. Elite crews from Oxford, Cambridge, Eton, Harvard and rowing clubs the world over have battled here across the water for nearly two centuries, competing for sixteen storied trophies including the legendary Grand Challenge Cup.

Our launch point at Lower Shiplake sits along this very reach — giving you the extraordinary privilege of paddling or cycling through the same timeless landscape that has captivated rowers, poets and picnickers for generations. The gently winding Thames here is flanked by weeping willows, ancient lock-keepers' cottages and rolling Chiltern Hills — a truly unforgettable setting for your adventure.

Book Your Session

What Would You Like to Hire?

All equipment is safety-checked daily. Life jackets and safety briefings included with all water-based hire.

🏄

Stand-Up Paddle Board

Stable, inflatable SUP boards suitable for all abilities. Paddle, leash and buoyancy aid included. Ideal for exploring the calm Thames waters at your own pace.

£50 / 3 hours
🛶

Sit-On Kayak

Stable, self-draining sit-on-top kayaks — perfect for beginners and families. Paddle and buoyancy aid included. Easy to board directly from the riverbank.

£50 / 3 hours
🚲

Bicycle

Quality bikes to explore the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside and towpaths. Helmet included. Ideal for the scenic cycle routes around Shiplake and the Chilterns.

£50 / 3 hours

Hire Slots

Three 3-hour sessions available every day of the week.

🌅

Morning

9:30am – 12:30pm

☀️

Afternoon

1:00pm – 4:00pm

🌇

Evening

4:30pm – 7:30pm

Book Your Hire

Complete all steps below — secure online payment, instant confirmation

1Date & Kit
2Your Details
3ID Upload
4Disclaimer
5Payment

Select Date, Equipment & Time

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🏄
Paddle Board
🛶
Sit-On Kayak
🚲
Bicycle
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🌅 Morning
9:30am – 12:30pm
☀️ Afternoon
1:00pm – 4:00pm
🌇 Evening
4:30pm – 7:30pm
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Your Personal Details

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Safety Disclaimer & Terms

Please read carefully. You must agree to all terms before proceeding.

📋 Henley Paddle & Cycle Hire — Hire Agreement & Safety Disclaimer

By agreeing to this disclaimer, I confirm and agree to all of the following:

  • Competency: I am a competent swimmer (if hiring a paddle board or kayak) and/or competent cyclist (if hiring a bicycle).
  • Assumption of Risk: I understand that water sports and cycling carry inherent risks. Any risks on water or on a bicycle are entirely my own responsibility. Any injuries or fatalities sustained during hire are not the fault or legal responsibility of Henley Paddle & Cycle Hire, its owners, employees or agents.
  • Children: I confirm that any children under 16 years of age are accompanied by a responsible adult at all times during the hire period.
  • Children & Buoyancy: I confirm that all persons under 18 will wear an appropriately fitted, ISO-approved buoyancy aid during any water activity (provided by Henley Paddle & Cycle Hire).
  • Return Condition: I confirm that I will return the hired item in the same condition in which I received it, and before the stated return time. I accept responsibility for any damage caused during the hire period.
  • Personal Injury Insurance: I understand that Henley Paddle & Cycle Hire does not provide personal injury insurance for hirers. I am responsible for ensuring I have adequate personal cover.
  • Waterways Licence: Hire includes use of the River Thames at the designated launch point. I will not use hired watercraft on any other waterway without obtaining appropriate licences.
  • Weather & Conditions: I accept that hire may be curtailed in unsafe weather conditions at the sole discretion of Henley Paddle & Cycle Hire, and that a full refund will be provided in such circumstances.
  • Leash & Safety Equipment: I agree to use the leash (paddle boards) and/or buoyancy aid provided at all times on the water.
  • Helmet: I agree to wear the helmet provided at all times when cycling.
  • Alcohol & Substances: I confirm I will not partake in any hire activity while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance.
  • Emergency Contact: I have informed a person not participating in the activity of my plans, intended location, and expected return time.
  • Right to Refuse: Henley Paddle & Cycle Hire reserves the right to refuse hire to any person deemed unfit or unsafe to use the equipment, with a full refund provided.
  • Cancellation Policy: I understand that cancellations made less than 48 hours before the hire start time are non-refundable. Cancellations made 48 hours or more in advance will receive a full refund.
You must read and agree to the disclaimer to proceed
You must agree to the cancellation policy

Payment

Booking Summary

Date
Equipment
Time Slot
Hire Duration3 Hours
Name
Hire Fee£50.00
Total Due Today£50.00
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💳
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⚠️ Cancellation Reminder: You have agreed to our 48-hour cancellation policy. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Booking Confirmed!

Thank you! Your booking has been received and payment processed successfully.

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Booking Ref: HPC-000000

📍 Collection Point: Highlands House, Reading Road, Lower Shiplake, Oxfordshire, RG9 3PH
🌊 River Access: Basmore Lane, Lower Shiplake
⏰ Please arrive 10 minutes before your slot for your safety briefing.

Hire Location & River Access

Conveniently located in Lower Shiplake on the famous Henley Reach of the River Thames

📦 Equipment Collection & Drop-Off
Highlands House
Reading Road
Lower Shiplake
Oxfordshire, RG9 3PH
Open in Google Maps →
🚣 River Launch Point
Basmore Lane
Lower Shiplake
Oxfordshire
Best river access point for all water hire
Open in Google Maps →

Safety Information

Your safety is our absolute priority. Please read before your session.

🦺

Buoyancy Aids

ISO-approved buoyancy aids are provided and must be worn by all persons under 18 on the water at all times. All paddlers are strongly advised to wear one.

🪢

Leash Required

All paddle board hirers must use the ankle or waist leash provided. This keeps you attached to your board in the event of a fall.

⛑️

Cycle Helmets

Helmets are provided and must be worn throughout your bicycle hire. Adjust for a snug fit before setting off.

🌡️

Weather & Conditions

We monitor river levels and weather conditions daily. Hire may be suspended in unsafe conditions. A full refund is issued if we cancel your session.

📱

Take a Phone

Carry a charged mobile phone in a dry bag. In an emergency on the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard or use What3Words to share your location.

👨‍👩‍👧

Children Under 16

Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Children under 18 must wear a buoyancy aid on the water throughout.

🚫

No Alcohol

Hire is not permitted to persons who are or appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. We reserve the right to refuse hire on safety grounds.

🏊

Swimming Ability

All paddle board and kayak hirers should be capable of swimming at least 50 metres. Please inform us if you are a non-swimmer before hiring.

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Total Bookings
7
All time
This Month
3
June 2026
Revenue (MTD)
£150
This month
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4
Next 7 days

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