Thames Aston to Marlow

Aston to Marlow – Section 10a of Paddle the Thames, Autumn Colours

Last year (2022) a number of members of a club undertook a challenge to paddle the Thames from the source at Cricklade to the start of the tidal section at Teddington. It was Dave’s idea and he became the driving force using the “Paddle The Thames” book by Mark Rainsley as a guide. Several members were involved in these “Friday Paddles” but with work and holidays, some missed out on sections with only three completing every section.  Sections can range from 5 to 14 miles along this beautiful winding river, making it quite a challenge. The individual paddles are so nice you will see a new section of the website that is preparing to repeat many of the sections to fill member’s gaps as well as creating a start for more on the challenge.

This trip was a relatively short section, some six miles, from Aston to Marlow to cover one of the sections Chris missed due to travel. There were plans for others to participate to either fill a gap or undertake the section for the first time.  Unfortunately, the numbers dropped with some late withdrawals, but still, seven beings, four paddlers and three dogs in mixed craft. set out on yet another beautiful Dave sunny trip day.

Dave led supported by Chris, both in Kayaks. Phil had Coco and Fifi in his Canoe while Lindsey had Cuillin in hers.

The get in at Aston is a small jetty where all the boats and kit was dumped while the car drivers, with the trusty support driver Graham, set off to shuttle the vehicles to the end of the trip ready for the finish. Dave’s check of the Thames had showed it as running with red flow warnings for all craft following recent rains, but the view from the bank did not reflect that level, so the trip went ahead.

It was a very nice paddle with pleasant company and the usual interest in the three hounds from the banks of the river. The flow was steady and helpful without being challenging and we were the only craft moving on the water. We passed the normal array of posh houses, parked up power boats and beautiful scenery as we made our way along.  Dave operated the two locks while we took his boat through.

Being a shorter section, we had a relaxed paddle and stopped off for lunch at Hurley Lock. The finish at Marlow was a relatively simple get out despite the strongest river flow experienced. It is well placed slipway close to a local pub where the group, and welcomed dogs, retired for a debrief.

So, trip completed and enjoyed by all. More to come in amongst the multitude of trips Dave will be arranging as Davepaddles moves forward.  Look out for them and come and join us.

Pics to follow