Bridges, Palaces and Power – The London River Walk

From Kew Gardens to the Tate Modern, via Battersea Power Station, this walking tour follows the Thames from Richmond to Woolwich, tracing centuries of London life along its banks. Explore palaces and museums, with a final stretch by riverboat, gliding past the landmarks you’ve walked beside.

A note from your guide, Sophie Campbell:
This amazing hike is aimed at fit walkers. There is only one hill, it’s true, but please remember that the Thames Path is a National Trail -  on concrete! Daily distances are from 8 m/13 km to 15 m/24 km and in wet/hot weather it can be tough. Walking footwear, hats and waterproofs are essential and anyone who is consistently slow may be politely asked to use public transport for a section. If all that sounds fine, see you in Spring 2026!

ITINERARY

Day 1: Hampton Court to Richmond
Mid-morning arrival at Hampton Court and meet with Sophie Campbell. Deposit luggage with luggage porter which will be transported to your first hotel. Walk from Hampton Court to Richmond with en-route visit to Strawberry Hill House. Built in 1749 by Horace Walpole to house his vast collection of treasures. Walpole built the house with the intention of creating a theatrical experience for the visitor - you will get to explore the house from the grey stone entrance hall to the sumptuous Gallery, Round Room and State Apartment, whilst learning about the restoration of the house. Evening welcome drink and dinner with wine at the hotel. 

Day 2: Richmond to Wandsworth
Continue your walk from Richmond to Wandsworth, with a highlight visit to Kew Palace and Gardens. Enjoy some free time to explore the palace, once home to King George, and time in the gardens. After, walk to Fulham Palace, the historic residence of the Bishops of London, and explore its museum and tranquil gardens. Overnight in Wandsworth.

Day 3: Wandsworth to London Docklands
Today’s walk includes a visit to Chelsea Old Church, followed by a stroll past Carlyle’s House, across Albert Bridge, and through the redeveloped Battersea Power Station to Lift 109 for panoramic views. After lunch, continue along the South Bank past landmarks like the London Eye, and Tate Modern. Overnight in London Docklands.

Day 4: London Docklands to Woolwich
Begin with a guided visit to the Brunel Museum, then take the train to Wapping. Explore Queen’s House, the Old Royal Naval College Chapel, and the Painted Hall. End with a scenic Thames Clipper ride to Woolwich and a farewell drink before returning to the hotel by 17:00.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 20 passengers.

Tour Grading: Demanding 

Please note: This amazing hike is aimed at fit walkers. There is only one hill, it’s true, but please remember that the Thames Path is a National Trail - on concrete! Daily distances are from 8 - 15 miles. Your luggage will be transported to the hotel each night, so you only need to carry a light daypack each day.

INCLUDED

• Three nights' accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at four star handpicked hotels, based on shared occupancy of twin/double room
• 3 dinners
• All guided tours and admissions as per the itinerary
• Luggage transfers
• Expert guide Sophie Campbell throughout the tour

NOT INCLUDED

• Transport to the hotel is not included
• Double for sole use supplement - £336
• Extra nights on bed and breakfast basis 
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Handpicked Accommodation

Four-star well-located hotels have been selected for this tour, all including dinner after a busy day of walking