Top riverside pubs and restaurants with moorings on the Thames

Exploring the River Thames by boat is a fantastic way to experience landmarks, some of England’s rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic countryside. It is stunning along the glorious stretches through Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. For boating enthusiasts, the journey is made even more enjoyable by the numerous riverside pubs and restaurants, many of which offer convenient nearby mooring facilities, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable dining experience. Whether you’re craving high-end dining, a hearty pub meal, a refreshing G&T or a pint of London ale, the Thames offers a wealth of options and places to stop for lunch on a boat trip, promising a diverse and exciting culinary journey. Here are our top pubs and restaurants with moorings along the River Thames.

 

Pubs and restaurants with moorings on the Thames

 

The Trout Inn, The Trout Inn, Oxford

This venue is a great stop-off if you want a beautiful country pub experience on a stunning stretch of the Thames. Set riverside in the picturesque village of Wolvercote, the pub’s grounds are also home to a couple of peacocks. Last year, Timeout named The Trout Inn in its top 12 of the ‘most beautiful beer gardens for pints with views’.

The pub boasts unique focal points, including roaring log fires, a stylish dining room, and a wonderful riverside outdoor space to relax and enjoy drinks and food from an all-day menu. Choose from a range of delicious dishes, including pan-fried seabass fillet, pea & asparagus risotto, slow-cooked pork & scallops, or a 30-day aged ribeye steak. There are also burgers and stone-baked pizzas – in fact, there’s something to delight all tastebuds.

There’s limited mooring space alongside the pub for small boats, but you may have to climb a locked gate to get into the pub garden. Alternatively, go up through Godstow Lock, moor on the left, and walk over Godstow Bridge to get to the pub.

Address: 195 Godstow Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8PN

Website: https://www.thetroutoxford.co.uk/#/

Instagram: @thetroutoxford

 

Cherwell Boathouse, Oxford

Described as an ‘Oxford Institution’, this charming boathouse restaurant offers picturesque views of the idyllic River Cherwell and is well known for its punting and fine dining experiences. The Boathouse has been in the same family for over 50 years and began its journey as a restaurant in an authentic Edwardian Boathouse alongside the punt station.

The restaurant’s seasonal dishes are crafted from fresh, local produce. Lunch and evening menus include traditional cooking to dishes with a modern twist. There’s an award-winning wine list and great cocktails, and Pimm’s is offered by the jug or glass. Food is served most days (except Tuesdays). Book a table or check out service times here. Parched punters can also grab hot and cold drinks, snacks and ice creams from The Tea Hut.

There are designated mooring points nearby at various locations along the River Cherwell.

Address: 50 Bardwell Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 6ST.

Website: https://cherwellboathouse.co.uk/

Instagram: @cherwellboathouse

 

The Head of the River, Oxford

The historic Head of the River pub is a great Oxford riverside haunt. It is located beside Oxford’s scenic River Isis and Folly Bridge. This traditional English pub in a scenic spot offers some of the finest pub food in Oxford.

The menu features contemporary dishes and British classics, Sunday lunches with all the trimmings, and hearty lunch choices. A variety of craft beers are rotated, and the pub offers an exclusive wine list, an extensive gin list and some of the world’s finest whiskeys.

While moorings are available for patrons at The Head of the River along the adjacent wharf, it’s important to be cautious of the upstream current near Folly Bridge when docking, as this area was historically a weir pool.

Address: Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 4LB

Website: https://www.headoftheriveroxford.co.uk/

Instagram: @headoftheriver

 

The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse, Moulsford-on-Thames

Tucked away on a stunning stretch of the River Thames in south Oxfordshire, this riverside inn and restaurant is full of charm and character and steeped in literature history, from the Wind in the Willows to Three Men in a Boat.

A terrace overlooks the water’s edge. A satisfying menu offers delicious cuisine and an enviable list of fine wines. Expect mouthwatering dishes like pan-fried scallops in cauliflower puree and confit pork belly.

Mooring is available at the venue’s riverside, but spaces are limited, so you’ll need to book in advance.

Address: Ferry Lane, Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, OX10 9JF.

Website: https://www.beetleandwedge.co.uk/

Instagram: @thebeetleandwedgeboathouse

 

The Swan at Streatley

Located on one of the most attractive stretches of the Thames in the Chiltern Hills is The Swan at Streatley, a converted 17th-century inn with a terrace by the water’s edge. This establishment is part of the Coppa Club group of restaurants.

Food, including small plates, a wide selection of mains and grills, pasta dishes, and sourdough pizzas, is available throughout the day, from breakfast and lunch to late-night snacks, plus a traditional Sunday Roast and afternoon tea. Booking in advance is advisable. Intimate private dining is also available. Children and dogs are welcome.

Mooring is located at the bottom of the riverside gardens near Goring Lock & Bridge on the Streatley side.

Address: High Street, Streatley on Thames, Berkshire, RG8 9HR.

Website: https://www.coppaclub.co.uk/theswanatstreatley

Instagram: @swanatstreatley

 

The Swan, Pangbourne

The Swan is one of the best places to eat in Pangbourne by the river. The smart inn, set in a beautiful 17th-century listed building, is situated in the picturesque village, with a suntrap terrace right by the riverside. It’s a dog-friendly, kid-friendly pub and a great traditional pub stop-off when boating on the Thames.

The unpretentious menu offers European dishes, and Sunday roasts prepared with seasonal ingredients for lunches and evening meals.

Moor alongside the pub or at nearby Pangbourne meadows (fees may be charged).

Address: Shooters Hill, Pangbourne, Reading RG8 7DU.

Website: https://www.swanpangbourne.co.uk/

Instagram: @swanpangbourne

 

The Great House, Sonning

Another Coppa Club venue (see The Swan at Streatley above), this former Elizabethan coaching inn sits on a beautifully quiet stretch of the Thames. English writer Jerome K. Jerome once described Sonning as “the most fairy-like little nook on the whole river.” This is one of our favourite restaurants with moorings along this particular stretch of the Thames.

The Great House is a splendid venue offering rooms, a restaurant, a bar, private dining igloos, a glass-covered terrace, and a rolling lawn with deckchairs overlooking the water. Food includes all the pub classics, grills and grazing plates, salads, and sourdough pizzas.

Moorings: available at the hotel (limited) and nearby at Sonning Lock.

Address: Thames Street, Sonning-on-Thames, Reading, Berkshire, RG4 6UT.

Website: https://www.coppaclub.co.uk/thegreathousesonning

Instagram: @the_great_house

 

The Angel on the Bridge, Henley on Thames

This iconic 18th-century grade II-listed pub is one of the most photographed and painted pubs in England because of its architecture and amazing riverside location on the River Thames. It is one of the best riverside pubs in Henley with moorings.

Hearty food includes the classic Sunday Roast and a main menu with a variety of dishes sourced from local ingredients, ranging from pub classics to à la carte cuisine and salads.

Reservations are essential during Henley Regatta week. For the rest of the year, reservations are taken for tables in the restaurant. Tables on the terrace can’t be reserved and are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Moorings: There are a couple of mooring spots next to the pub, or you can try further down the river in front of Mill Meadow.

Address: Thameside Henley-on-Thames RG9 1BH.

Website: https://www.theangelhenley.com/

Instagram: @angelonthebridge

 

Compleat Angler, Marlow

This fabulous luxury hotel and restaurant is located on the willow-fringed banks of the River Thames, near the dramatic rush of Marlow’s Weir. In a stunning setting, the Compleat Angler in Marlow offers the perfect backdrop for afternoon tea, Sunday lunch or a visit to Sindhu run by Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar.

A place to escape the ordinary, this quintessentially English hotel offers elegant rooms, tranquil gardens and glorious views of the River Thames. With its stylish function rooms and idyllic setting, it is also one of Buckinghamshire’s most sought-after wedding venues.

Private mooring is available for patrons and hotel guests (booking ahead required). Alternatively, there are moorings just below Marlow Lock (an 11-minute stroll away).

Address: Marlow Bridge, Bisham, Marlow, SL7 1RG.

Website: https://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/compleat-angler

Instagram: @compleatanglerofficial

 

The Bounty, Bourne End

This unique barn-like riverside pub has lots of memorabilia on show and a real festival vibe. Cool Places describes it as ‘quirky’ with ‘an air of happy anarchy’ about it. A sign over the door apparently declares ‘Welcome to the People’s Republic of Cockmarsh’, while a chalkboard adds: ‘Muddy boots, dirty hounds and children welcome’.

There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating (outdoors it’s picnic bench style) and the venue often hosts live music. Expect a great choice of real ales, including Marlow’s Rebellion beer on tap. The food menu includes typical pub fare, including Fish and chips, homemade lasagne, steak burgers, Ploughman’s etc. There are also kiddies’ meals and doggie dinners.

Moorings are available alongside or nearby at Cookham, about a mile’s stroll along the Thames Path (south bank).

Address: Cockmarsh, Bourne End, Buckinghamshire, SL8 5RG.

Website: no website, but there’s a Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/thebounty1/

Instagram: @the_bounty1

 

The Ferry, Cookham

Nestled on the bank of the River Thames in the heart of the picturesque town of Cookham, The Ferry Country Pub and Restaurant offers the perfect setting for a relaxing spot of drinking and dining. This gastropub offers gorgeous riverside views, attractive interior spaces, and a lovely garden for al-fresco dining.

Food is served from lunch throughout the day, and there’s a diverse set of menus offering everything from light bites and delicious desserts to hearty pub food and tempting sharing platters. They do a splendid Sunday Roast, there’s a separate children’s menu, and comprehensive allergen and dietary information is provided. A dine-at-home service also offers takeaways should you prefer to take food back to your boat.

Moorings are available at Bell Rope Meadow.

Address: Sutton Road, Cookham, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 9SN

Website: https://www.theferry.co.uk/#/

Instagram: @theferry_cookham

 

The Boathouse at Boulters Lock, Maidenhead

One of the Peach collection of pubs, the Boathouse is set on its own island in the Thames at Maidenhead. It offers patrons a fabulous al-fresco dining and drinking spot.

The dog-friendly (bar and outdoor areas) and kid-friendly pub serves food all day, from breakfast to gastropub classics for lunch and dinner. The restaurant strives to use local ingredients from ethical producers and offers a gluten-free menu.

Mooring: The venue offers pontoon mooring. Taplow Riverside Moorings also offers mooring nearby.

Address: Boulters Lock Island, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 8PE.

Website: https://www.boathouseboulterslock.co.uk/

Instagram: @boathouseboulterslock

 

The Waterside Inn, Bray

Set in a haven of tranquillity, the Waterside Inn is a 3 Michelin-starred, family-run restaurant with rooms. Its steadfast staff and dedicated Chef Patron, Alain Roux, are at its helm.

Expect exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and an unpretentious atmosphere in an enchanting riverside setting. This is one of the few high-end restaurants accessible by boat on the Thames.

Guests should be aware of the relaxed but smart dress code prohibiting shorts, sportswear, flip-flops, etc.

Moorings: Two moorings are available to guests for launches and river boats up to 50ft long with a shallow draft of 2 to 3ft only. The jetty is unsuitable for river or offshore cruiser vessels.

Address: Ferry Road, Bray, Berkshire, SL6 2AT

Website: https://www.waterside-inn.co.uk/

Instagram: @rouxwatersideinnbray

 

Oakley Court, Windsor

On a private stretch of the River Thames known as Water Oakley, you’ll find Oakley Court, a prestigious Victorian mansion house hotel set on the riverside surrounded by 35 acres of grounds.

Hotel and Boathouse rooms, many with views of the River Thames, blend traditional English fabric with modernist furniture.

A house menu for hotel guests features dishes from ingredients grown in the hotel’s kitchen garden. Guest chefs include the Master Executive Chef Shimizu Akira of AKIRA restaurant at Japan House, Mateo Zielonka, ‘The Pasta Man,’ and Johnnie Collins of 180 Lofts, who will all be hosting throughout the year. Book here.

For non-hotel residents, tables for afternoon tea can be reserved in The Parlour (between 12pm and 4pm).

Moorings: Available for hotel patrons only.

Address: Windsor Road, Water Oakley, Windsor SL4 5UR.

Website: https://www.oakleycourt.co.uk/

Instagram: @oakley.court

 

GoGos Waterfront Restaurant, Windsor

There are several fantastic restaurants with moorings in Windsor – and GoGos is no exception. A great waterfront location in Windsor, GoGos is situated between the Racecourse Marina and Windsor Racecourse. This hidden gem is the perfect spot for breakfast, evening drinks, and everything in between.

The food here is inspired by the tastes of South Africa, and the place is renowned for its exotic cocktails. Children are welcome during the day, but there is a policy of no kids under eight after 7.30pm.

Moorings: GoGos is located in the Racecourse Marina Windsor, making it ideal for berth holders. Contact the marina office directly for information regarding mooring availability, fees and reservations. Tel: 01753 851501 Email: [email protected]

The council has berths available for boats along the Thames at the Windsor Promenade, which is a 30-minute walk away.

Address: Racecourse Marina, Maidenhead Road, Windsor, SL4 5HT.

Website: https://www.go-gos.co.uk/

Instagram: @gogoswaterfront

 

The Boatman, Windsor

Nestled below Windsor Castle, right beside the River Thames and overlooking Eton Bridge, is The Boatman, Windsor’s only pub on the river. This pub is perfect for a casual drink or a meal in a charming restaurant. With plenty of indoor and outdoor space, the pub also has an all-weather conservatory for enjoying the riverside views, whatever the weather.

The British menu includes favourites like fish and chips, gourmet burgers and a Caesar salad. Of course, given the location, the popular Eton Mess features on the dessert menu. The Boatman is dog-friendly, welcomes accompanied children of all ages, and offers menu choices for vegetarians and those who are gluten-free.

Moorings: The council has berths available for boats along the Thames at the Windsor Promenade, just a few minutes away.

Address: 10 Thames Side, Windsor, West Berkshire, SL4 1QN.

Website: https://boatmanwindsor.com/

Instagram: @theboatmanwindsor

 

And finally…

Velolife, Willow Marina, Wargrave – Pop in for a coffee

If you are passing our marina in Berkshire, why not pop in for refreshments at Velolife’s coffee shop next door to Val Wyatt’s head office? Open during the boating season, you are welcome to stop in the slipway for 20 minutes and grab a coffee, or, of course, if you’re a mooring holder with us, spend all the time you’d like out on the decking. We’d love to chat about all things boats!

Address: Willow Marina, Willow Lane, Wargrave, Berkshire RG10 8LH.

Instagram: @velolife

Restaurants with moorings: Disclaimer and information

For all the above venues, it is advisable to call ahead regarding mooring availability as some may require reservations, and some may be chargeable.

Check out further Thames visitor moorings here.

Has our guide on pubs and restaurants with moorings whet your appetite to embrace life on the river? To learn more about our range of boats, contact our team.