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Thames Path: Caversham to Sonning

A four-mile riverside walk from Reading's town-centre bridges to the impossibly pretty village of Sonning — everyone's favourite Sunday.

Where
Sonning
Time needed
Half day
Tickets
Free
Free entry
Yes
Thames Path between Reading and Sonning with narrow boats Thames Path between Reading and Sonning with narrow boats

What to expect at Thames Path: Caversham to Sonning

The Thames Path National Trail runs 184 miles from the source in Gloucestershire to the Thames Barrier, and the four-mile stretch from Caversham Bridge east to Sonning is easily the most walked section within Reading itself. It is flat, level, well-signed, and — despite starting on the edge of a big town — genuinely lovely: cricket pitches, moored narrowboats, willows, swans, the occasional heron, and one of the loveliest village endings in the Thames Valley at Sonning Bridge.

Start at Caversham Bridge (five minutes' walk from Reading Station via Christchurch Bridge) and head east on the north bank. You pass the Thames-side promenade with its bandstand, King's Meadow (the restored Edwardian ladies' swimming pool is now a private lido), then out past Kennet Mouth where the Kennet joins the Thames beside the Blade office tower. From there it is open river all the way — Sonning Lock is about the halfway point, and the last mile passes the Thames Valley Park meadows before reaching Sonning Bridge. Cross the bridge into the village for a pint at The Bull or lunch at The Great House.

Free, all year, all weather (bring waterproof boots November to February — sections get properly muddy). Two hours one way at a steady pace; you can bus back to Reading on the 128 from Sonning High Street (every 30 min, £3), or turn round and walk back. Alternative: shorter walk to Kennet Mouth (2 miles round trip) if pressed. This is the exact walk locals do on a Sunday and it is a proper reason to base yourself at a Caversham or Sonning stay for a few days.

Plan your visit TicketsFree Free entryYes Time neededHalf day WhereSonning Opening hours Daily, dawn to dusk Best light 09:00-11:00 and 17:00-19:00 Muddy Nov-Feb Hotels near Thames Path: Caversham to Sonning

Questions about Thames Path: Caversham to Sonning

Cost?

Completely free — public national trail.

Free windows?

Always.

How long?

Half a day: 4 miles / 2 hours each way, or bus back after 2 hours.

Any closed periods?

Never closed. Path may be flooded in exceptional weather (once or twice a winter).

Booking?

None.

Where to start?

Caversham Bridge, 8-min walk from Reading Station via Christchurch Bridge.

Where to stay

Hotels near Thames Path: Caversham to Sonning

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