Reading Town and Thames Tour

A hybrid 1.5-hour tour that splits between the Thames and the Kennet & Avon Canal, showcasing Reading's dual waterway heritage. The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust operates this route with detailed commentary on Victorian canal engineering, lock mechanics, and Reading's industrial past. The included museum visit at Blake's Lock adds engineering and historical context before or after the cruise. Best for canal enthusiasts and engineering fans. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: 2-30. You meet at Blake's Lock Museum, Gasworks Road. Key highlights: Dual waterway experience: narrow canal and open river in one tour, Live lock operation explanation and Victorian engineering insights, Blake's Lock Museum visit included with tour ticket.

Price: £18

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-30

Best for: canal enthusiasts and engineering fans

Best time: April to October (operating season); May–June and September for mild weather and fewer crowds; avoid July–August peak tourist season for smaller group sizes

Meeting point: Blake's Lock Museum, Gasworks Road

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Arrival Check in at Blake's Lock Museum; 10-minute safety briefing - Visitors have the option to explore the museum (20–30 minutes) before or after the boat tour.

First 15 minutes Canal section through central Reading locks - Boat transits the narrow Kennet & Avon Canal, passing under low bridges and through historic locks with live explanation of their operation.

15–45 minutes Thames river cruise section - Exit canal into the Thames; wider water allows better views of surrounding countryside and wildlife.

45–65 minutes Return via canal with engineering focus - Guide highlights Victorian brickwork, original lock gates, and the canal's role in Reading's economy during the 19th century.

Final 10 minutes Return to Blake's Lock and disembark - Museum visit can be extended if time permits; gift shop available.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Blake's Lock Museum, Gasworks Road.

• Dual waterway experience: narrow canal and open river in one tour
• Live lock operation explanation and Victorian engineering insights
• Blake's Lock Museum visit included with tour ticket
• Commentary on Reading's industrial heritage and canal revival
• Opportunity to photograph historic locks and bridges from boat level
• Accessibility: Boat has high step access (2–3 steps); narrow canal boat not wheelchair accessible. Museum ground floor accessible. Contact Kennet & Avon Canal Trust ahead for mobility support.

What is included: 1.5-hour guided boat tour (canal and Thames sections), Blake's Lock Museum entry, Life jacket (on request), Guide commentary on canal history and engineering.

Not included: Food and drink, Souvenir photos or merchandise, Extended museum visit time (basic entry only). You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Camera for engineering and lock photography, Windbreaker or light jacket, Sunscreen and hat, Comfortable walking shoes for museum section. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: April to October (operating season); May–June and September for mild weather and fewer crowds; avoid July–August peak tourist season for smaller group sizes.

Tip: Operating season April-October

Tip: Museum visit included in ticket

Accessibility: Boat has high step access (2–3 steps); narrow canal boat not wheelchair accessible. Museum ground floor accessible. Contact Kennet & Avon Canal Trust ahead for mobility support..

Operator: Kennet & Avon Canal Trust | Book directly (opens in new tab)

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Reading Museum (8 min walk walk)
• Reading Abbey Ruins (12 min walk walk)
• Forbury Gardens (10 min walk walk)

This activity is run by Kennet & Avon Canal Trust.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 7 days before tour; £5 cancellation fee within 7 days.

Accessibility: Boat has high step access (2–3 steps); narrow canal boat not wheelchair accessible. Museum ground floor accessible. Contact Kennet & Avon Canal Trust ahead for mobility support..

Best time to go: April to October (operating season); May–June and September for mild weather and fewer crowds; avoid July–August peak tourist season for smaller group sizes.

How much time should I allow for the Blake's Lock Museum as part of this tour?

Museum entry is included, but time is limited within the tour. Allow 20–30 minutes if exploring before or after the cruise. Most visitors do a quick 10-minute visit during the tour. The museum focuses on canal engineering and lock mechanics with small displays. Extended visits are possible if you return independently.

Why is the Reading Town and Thames Tour only operating April to October?

The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust operates seasonal tours due to lower winter water levels, reduced daylight, and lower visitor demand. Winter months see maintenance work on locks and canal sections. Spring and autumn offer optimal water conditions and weather for safe, comfortable boat operation.

Is the Kennet & Avon Canal boat suitable for people with claustrophobia?

The canal boat has a narrow enclosed cabin for bad weather, but most of the 1.5-hour tour is in open air on deck. If you have severe claustrophobia, inform the operator when booking - they may offer seating outside the cabin. The Thames river section is fully open.