Gentle stroll to village shop to buy the Saturday papers before departing downstream of Goring bridge; just 65 miles north of Teddington lock and the tidal Thames. Sun shining all the way today although a little breezy at times which seemed to be more of a problem to the Saturday rowers than us. Passed Beale Park, well known as site of previous annual Inland Waterways Association festivals. We have camped on this site and also been guests of the Dutch Barge Association and our very good friends, Diana and Chris on Esme.

First lock of the day Whitchurch with helpful & friendly lock-keeper, as they all are on the Thames!

Whitchurch Lock

Then cruising on down by Pangbourne meadow to Mapledurham lock (sadly no time for bacon butties this morning, maybe on the return journey)  and Caversham lock. Quick pit stop at Better Boating Co for replacement gas bottle and water; followed by Tesco Reading for some groceries.

Setting off again the River Kennet, entrance to the Kennet and Avon canal, branches, into the Thames at this point; just before arriving at Sonning lock we stopped for lunch. This meant we could watch the antics of the schoolboy rowers made all the more chaotic by a hired narrowboat breaking down midstream.

Broken down narrowboat causes chaos to rowers

Admiring all the lovely waterside properties – this one we’ll buy when we win the lottery!

Dream waterside property

After lunch we seem to hit the Saturday afternoon traffic & had an interesting time queuing at Marsh lock above Henley in some gusty wind. Finally moored in Henley for a well-earned Pimms at 5pm.   I must say the harbour master has some pretty sharp eyes, as it was not long before he was alongside in his little launch to collect the £8 overnight mooring fee.  But, since we were in such a great spot we smiled as we paid.

Arrival Henley-on-Thames – busy, sunny Saturday afternoon