Shiplake to Reading

This is a delightful 8 mile flat walk along the River Thames from Shiplake to Reading. Starting at Shiplake station, the route takes us over the Lash Brook and along the towpath and the lesser known 'secret' section of the Thames Path through some of the back gardens of Lower Shiplake. 

Following the course of the river, we pass Shiplake College and boat club through the Idyllic village of Sonning where we will stop for refreshments at Coppa Club. We cross the river at the iconic grade II listed arch bridge and continue past Sonning Lock and Blue Coat School. As we meander along the path next to Thames Valley Park we will be looking out for Kingfishers and other wildlife frequently seen here and we may even spot some intrepid wild swimmers along the way. We pass the Thames Lido and head up towards Reading station via Forbury Gardens.

Walk difficulty level: MEDIUM

12.5km - 3 hours walking time, plus 30-40 minutes refreshments stop.

• This is a fairly low impact walk, with no hills.
• The tow path and fields are liable to becoming water logged after heavy rainfall so not suitable for wheel chair users or pushchairs.
• No dogs

Maximum Number of Participants: 20

You'll need:

• Sturdy shoes (preferably walking boots)
• Bring money/means to buy coffee at Coppa Club or water and your own refreshments 

About the route

Start/End points

Start at Shiplake Station. Lower Shiplake, RG9 3NY. What3words: detriment.funnels.tutored

Finish at Reading station RG6 1LZ

Getting there and back

We will be getting the train from Reading to the start point in Shiplake. 

Train from Reading to Shiplake on Thurs 11th May 2023 at 09:57 arriving at Shiplake 10:22

Will there be access to toilets on the walk?

Yes

Refreshments/breaks

Mid way stop in Sonning at Coppa Club where we will buy coffees/refreshments. We expect to stop for up to 40 minutes. Our route finishes at Reading train station which has a plethora of cafes, pubs, restaurants etc.

About your guide

Liz Bradbury and co-leader Caroline Gratrix have been running the guided walking group, Walk Works for 2 years. We have mapped and risk assessed over 80 independent routes in Berkshire, South Oxfordshire and Bucks and are insured and first aid trained. Walk Works has a wide community of walkers who are friendly, fun and inclusive and love to welcome new people along. Walk Works always risk assess their routes in the week prior to all events to check that footpaths are viable to ensure the safety and well-being of their walking community.