Windsor Rivercraft Hire began as a quiet idea among friends who spent their weekends exploring the slower edges of the Thames. We noticed how often visitors admired the river but hesitated to rent a boat, thinking it required permits or complex lessons. The truth is simpler: the Thames near Windsor offers some of the calmest waters in southern England, ideal for relaxed outings. That spirit of accessibility shaped everything we built since 2018.
Our small team focuses on keeping each experience personal but uncluttered. You will find no complicated membership, no busy storefront, and no pressure for extras. Each craft, from the two-seater rowboat to the light motor launch, is maintained for stability and ease of use. We clean, check, and fuel every vessel daily, with a clear checklist displayed onboard so you know exactly what to expect.
The handover process takes only a few minutes. We show you how to manage direction, where to turn, and what to avoid during higher flow. A laminated route card stays with you—printed large enough to read even in bright sunlight. We include small details that often go unnoticed: spare cloths to wipe seats, a dry pouch for phones, and a bottle of drinking water on every departure.
Windsor Rivercraft Hire is based at 11 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PL, a short walk from Windsor Bridge. From the jetty you can follow two simple loops, one upstream towards the quiet Home Park reach, and another passing Eton’s riverfront. Each direction offers a different feel of Windsor—sometimes the echo of chapel bells, sometimes the hum of the train over the arches.
We welcome both local families and visitors from abroad. Children may ride under adult supervision, and pets are allowed on calm days. Because the Thames changes with weather, we adapt our advice daily, balancing enjoyment and awareness. For us, boating is less about speed and more about noticing: reflections of trees on the surface, gentle ripples under the bridge, the hush of oars in evening light.
Behind the quiet tone of our service stands a belief that simple experiences need structure. We comply with safety requirements set by the Environment Agency, follow seasonal flow bulletins, and maintain full insurance as required for small craft hire. We also meet UK data and booking standards, keeping only the information necessary to confirm reservations.
If you have questions or wish to arrange a private time slot, contact us by phone at 441 753 642 915 or email [email protected]. Our small riverside shed is open most days between April and October, weather permitting. We look forward to helping you explore the river as simply and calmly as possible.