This year, many families will be enjoying the delights the UK has to offer over the summer holidays, allowing us all to uncover some local gems right on our doorstep. The River Thames and surrounding countryside offer a rich treasure trove of natural beauty and fabulous venues to enjoy at your leisure.
Adventure on your doorstep
One such venue, set on the riverside in the beautiful town of Henley on Thames, is the River & Rowing Museum, which is the perfect escape for anyone looking for adventure, history and culture. Where else can you brave the Wild Wood with Mr Toad and friends, uncover an Iron Age hoard of gold coins, discover the Henley Sculptress’ terracotta and plaster models of the Tamesis and Isis keystones of Henley Bridge, enjoy boats galore – from the boat Sir Steve Redgrave won his fifth Olympic gold medal in at the Sydney Games to Helen Glover and Heather Stanning’s Unbeaten Boat – all under the same roof?
Visitors are enchanted by the world of Kenneth Grahame, in the Museum’s The Wind in the Willows Gallery, with Mr Toad’s caravan, 3D models, theatrical lighting and music.
Get more from your gallery visits
Gallery Trails bring the Museum to life for the Under 5s, with Tiny Toad’s Treasure Hunt and Tiny Toad’s Animal Adventure. Over 5s can enhance their gallery visits with the fascinating Time Travellers Inventions Trail, while there are two Artist Adventure Trails aimed at the over 7s, all downloadable from the Museum’s website.
The River, International Rowing and Henley Galleries’ hands-on elements, including Mr Toad’s caravan – a firm favourite – are now back in place for visitors to enjoy and the Museum will be maintaining its programme of regular cleaning.
Extend your visit riverside
Visitors can take their adventures outside and make the most of the Museum’s beautiful riverside setting by choosing one of two Riverside Trails. The Wind in the Willows Meadow Trail and River History Trail are downloadable from the Museum’s website and provide the perfect way to enjoy the Museum outdoors this summer.
The Chocolate Café – too tempting to miss
With its impressive terrace which overlooks the weeping willows of Mill Meadows, the Museum’s Chocolate Café is the perfect place to relax and catch up with family and friends. Breakfasts are served all day, as well as light lunches, sumptuous afternoon tea and a delightful children’s menu including favourites such as smoothies, ice-cream, milkshakes and hot chocolate.
Those mid bike ride or riverside walk can pick up an afternoon tea or picnic box to be enjoyed further along the river. Dogs are welcome on the terrace too!
Visitor Safety
Following the government’s lifting of restrictions from 19 July, the River & Rowing Museum confirms that the safety of staff, volunteers and visitors remains its highest priority. The Museum continues to offer advance general admission ticket booking. By maintaining a reduced capacity, the Museum ensures that visitor numbers are limited and that all visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Social distancing and one-way routes remain in place and all visitors will still be asked to wear a mask inside the building, unless exempt.
Date for your diary:
Skyscape
30 September 2021 – 16 January 2022
“The sky is the source of light in nature – and governs everything.” – John Constable
Celebrating 500 years of artists’ fascination with the sky, Skyscape is the River & Rowing Museum’s new exhibition, organised by the Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford, which opens its doors in Henley on Thames on 30 September.
All River & Rowing Museum Galleries, Shop and Café are open Thursday to Monday 10am – 4pm.
TICKETS NOW ON SALE
for visits throughout the school holidays
Pre-book your tickets today to avoid disappointment
Ends
River & Rowing Museum:
The River & Rowing Museum inspires escape and exploration, telling the many stories of the River Thames and celebrating the wildlife that calls it home. Beyond its beautiful riverside location in Henley on Thames and award-winning building, the Museum’s doors open onto art, history, conservation and the international sport of rowing.
The galleries include interactive displays and stories and objects of international significance, including the enchanting ‘Wind in the Willows’ gallery and the UK’s only dedicated gallery to the work of renowned Modern British artist John Piper who lived nearby. In addition, the Museum hosts a lively programme of special exhibitions from partners such as the National Portrait Gallery, The Ashmolean, Seven Stories, the V&A and the Hayward Gallery.
Working closely with organisations in its local area, the Museum’s Community Gallery showcases a wide variety of local projects. Twice shortlisted for Family Friendly Museum of the Year, the Museum is a registered educational charity, and welcomes children and adults to take part in its engaging and inspiring learning and events programme. The Museum’s Chocolate Café terrace overlooks beautiful Mill Meadows, and its shop celebrates local suppliers, specialising in children’s books and games, jewellery and craft. www.rrm.co.uk
As a charity receiving no ongoing public funding, the Museum relies on its visitors and supporters. Please help support the Museum’s future by becoming a Friend or making a donation.
Email: museum@rrm.co.uk
Twitter: @river_rowing
Facebook/Instagram: @riverandrowingmuseum
Opening Hours: The River & Rowing Museum is open Thursday to Monday, 10am to 4pm.