Here is a celebration of royal history. Monarchs built their palaces and planted their gardens along the banks of the River Thames at Richmond, Kew, Hampton Court and Windsor. They hunted on the vast tracts of land surrounding these palaces which remain today as unspoilt royal parks. This tour is unbelievably rural as it follows the tranquil river path and leads through the majestic parks. You bypass the traffic and enjoy these historic gems from an unusual perspective (that's the way we like to do things!).
Freewheel along the river Thames and enjoy the vistas, palatial houses and hidden delights on the route from bustling Richmond to Kew and upstream to Hampton Court where you stay the night. Cycle the river path the next day taking in Runnymede and the weirs and wildlife enroute to reach Windsor castle and your next overnight stop. On the final day, explore the lovely old villages close by and ride through wonderful Windsor Park. Return by train to Richmond.
Holiday details
Price
- Classic
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from £650 per person
- Luxury
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from £985 per person
Based on two people sharing a room
What’s included?
There are no extras, however you’ll love what’s included as standard
Duration
3 nights
Start & Finish
Starts daily and is circular from Richmond
Hotels
- Classic
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Hand picked hotels and inns
- Luxury
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Characterful and historic 4 star hotels
Holiday type
Self-guided
This tour is priced without a guide and you are free to explore on your own. If you would like a guide for part or all of your trip, we are happy to provide a knowledgeable, local guide
Activity level
Gentle cycling. More info...
Electric bikes
Available
Mileage
From 11 to 37 miles (18 to 59 km) per day
Terrain
Flat
Traffic-free
Almost entirely
Options
- Additional nights in Windsor or Richmond
- Easy transport links enabling a non-cycling partner to enjoy the itinerary
Itinerary day-by-day
Classic & Luxury
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1. Day one
Richmond and Kew
At a time to suit you, make your way to our base in Richmond, to pick up your cycling equipment. Your host will meet you there, organise your bicycle and run through your itinerary. Then you are off on your bike to discover bustling Richmond with its old palace and riverside cafes and to explore Kew and its famed garden. Maybe enjoy a fascinating ride through the royal park and along the waterside, dotted with famous historic houses to reach Ham House before returning to your hotel in Richmond.
8 - 15 miles (13 - 24 km)
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2. Day two
Richmond to Hampton Court
Today there is a delightful cycle ride to Hampton Court Palace which takes you through two royal parks and along the river. There is 500 years of royal history at the palace from Henry VIII to Queen Victoria , from state apartments to Tudor kitchens, and renaissance paintings to the maze. Enjoy the 60 acres of riverside gardens too before you arrive at your hotel at Hampton Court.
11 miles (18 km)
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3. Day three
Along the Thames to Windsor
Enjoy the delights of the Thames path through the Runnymede meadows and beyond. This is a very rural ride past houseboats and villas, famous islands and willow lined meadows, pretty lock cottages, attractive steeples & ancient waterside inns. Pedal through Old Windsor and on to reach the famous castle set in Windsor itself, where you will find your hotel.
20 miles (32 km)
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4. Day four
Windsor and surrounding villages
Explore Eton and the riverside villages beyond Windsor with their charming brick and timber buildings and inns. Pedal through idyllic Windsor Great Park with its amazing views of Windsor and enjoy the famous Savill Garden. Return to Richmond by train where you drop your bikes and collect your luggage for your onward travel
12 miles (18 km), 25 miles (40 km) or 37 miles (59 km)