Le Boat - Thames Benson, Oxfordshire

Escape the crowds and discover the fabulous River Thames from a different perspective. Together with your furry friend, why not take a self drive river cruiser to meander along the gentle waterways on a comfortable berth packed with modern amenities through routes around London. Stop off for some fabulous walking opportunities and make sure to visit fido-friendly sights along your route. The Benson base in Oxfordshire allows you to explore the best of Windsor, Oxford, Henley-on-Thames, Reading and Marlow from the river stopping off at delightful waterside inns. All Le Boat river cruisers range from budget to premiere sleeping from two to twelve and come equipped with all you need to enjoy a city adventure with your canine companion.

Begin your boating adventure for the first time or as a more experienced crew member with full tuition provided at the start of every journey. When you arrive at the base, you will be given an in-depth briefing on every aspect of your boat from which knots to use to how the oven works. After your instruction lesson you will be given a temporary permit for the duration of your holiday. Most visitor moorings on canals and rivers are governed by the Canal & River Trust and are free of charge, meaning your boat will be permitted to moor anywhere on the towpath side of the canal as long as no obstruction is being caused. An overnight fee may be charged for overnight moorings at a select number of privately owned sites such as The River Thames. 

A suggested route for those wanting a longer escape is Benson return via Windsor, a vibrant trip passing Windsor Castle before heading to the Royal Gardens to relax under the warm sun and explore the grounds with your furry friend. This route from Thames Benson passes 34 locks and can be completed in seven nights. Highlights include treating your canine companion to historic dog walking sights including Windsor's Abbey and Castle and Cliveden House. Also make sure to visit Maidenhead's multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants including dog-friendly The Waterside Inn.

If you’re looking for a shorter break, Chertsey return via Henley-upon-Thames is an easy-going riverside adventure filled with waterside pubs and pretty greens that tempt you to stop. This route from Thames Benson takes a duration of three nights passing through 18 locks. Highlights include Henley's extraordinary church and market square to explore with your furry friend and stopping off at Cliveden House for scenic walks and a visit to their shop which welcomes doggy guests.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

All dog-friendly river cruisers are available from April to November. Arrive on Monday- Saturday for a 3, 4, 5, 7, 10 or 11 night stay. Please note that each route has individual changeover dates. In a river cruiser berthing 4, enjoy a 3 night stay from £619 or 7 night stay from £919 in the low season, excluding fuel supplement. Supplements apply on summer dates and larger boats.

For more information on payable fees and deposits, check out our Holiday Extras.