Escape to Henley-on-Thames: Things to Do on Your Next Visit
Set along one of the most scenic stretches of the River Thames, Henley is a town shaped by its waterfront views, independent spirit and long rowing heritage. If you are looking for inspiration for the top things to do in Henley, you will find a town that blends peaceful riverside moments with lively cultural attractions and beautiful countryside. It is a place where mornings start with an easy stroll, afternoons are made for discovering hidden corners and evenings are best finished with good food and a glass of wine.
Whether you are planning a weekend escape, a short break or a relaxed day of exploring during your stay at Hotel du Vin Henley, this guide showcases the very best things to do in Henley on Thames. From classic attractions to unique discoveries and romantic experiences, Henley offers something for every type of traveller.
Discover Henley’s historic streets
If you want to truly understand Henley, begin in the heart of the town. Its historic streets are lined with Georgian townhouses, charming shopfronts and inviting cafés. Exploring on foot is one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do in Henley, and it helps you get a feel for its heritage.
Browse independent boutiques
Henley is a wonderful place for slow, thoughtful browsing. The independent boutiques offer a varied selection of fashion, art, homeware and speciality food items. Many are locally owned which gives the town centre a welcoming and personal feel. Visitors looking for more unusual things to do in Henley on Thames often enjoy exploring the smaller galleries and craft shops that highlight local talent.
Relax with coffee or a light bite
Henley has no shortage of cafés and bakeries. Whether you are after a pastry and a cup of coffee or a light lunch before continuing your day, you will find plenty of atmospheric spots to choose from. Some cafés sit close to the river which makes them perfect for people watching and enjoying the gentle rhythm of life in the town.
Enjoy the river that defines the town
If you are compiling a list of essential things to do in Henley on Thames, time beside the river should be at the top of it. The water is central to the town's identity and offers endless opportunities for relaxation and discovery.
Walk the Thames Path
Few activities are as quintessentially Henley as a stroll along the Thames Path. The route winds peacefully west towards Hambleden Lock and east towards Shiplake. This is ideal for anyone looking for calm moments, wildlife spotting and unspoilt views across the countryside. Couples seeking romantic things to do in Henley on Thames often choose this walk for its quiet beauty and its gently changing scenery.
Take a boat trip
Seeing Henley from the water is a highlight for many visitors. Boat operators offer everything from short cruises to leisurely afternoon journeys along the river. You will pass elegant boathouses, historic bridges and the occasional rowing crew gliding smoothly past. If you prefer a little adventure, self-drive boats are available in the warmer months which adds a fun and slightly unusual twist to a classic Henley experience. It is one of the more relaxed yet unusual things to do in Henley on Thames for those who enjoy something a little different.
Find a riverside bench or picnic spot
Henley is filled with quiet riverside benches and open spaces perfect for a picnic or a moment of stillness. Watching the water, the boats and the gentle flow of life along the Thames is a simple pleasure that captures the spirit of the town.
Explore Henley’s cultural side
Henley on Thames is known around the world for its famous regatta though the town's cultural offering goes far beyond rowing. Museums, festivals and historic sites bring depth and variety to your visit.
Visit the River and Rowing Museum
For an engaging look at the heritage of the Thames and the sport that shaped Henley, the River and Rowing Museum is the place to go. Exhibits explore boat building, environmental conservation and the stories of local communities. The Wind in the Willows gallery is a favourite for families and adds a charming layer of nostalgia. It is one of the most rewarding things to do in Henley on Thames for visitors interested in culture and history.
Take a look inside Henley Town Hall
The Town Hall stands proudly in the centre of Henley and hosts exhibitions, community events and occasional concerts. Its architecture adds to the town's visual appeal and makes it worth a visit during a day of exploring.
Plan your trip around local festivals
Henley comes alive during festival season. The Henley Royal Regatta draws international crowds for world class rowing and a lively social atmosphere. Shortly after, the Henley Festival offers a mix of music, comedy, art and dining. Both events showcase Henley at its most vibrant and are especially enjoyable for couples looking for romantic things to do in Henley on Thames during the summer months.
Experience Henley’s countryside
If you are searching for things to do in Henley that take you beyond the town centre, the surrounding countryside is rich with trails, viewpoints and villages waiting to be explored.
Take the walk to Hambleden
Hambleden is a picture-perfect village with a traditional pub, a beautiful church and a sense of quiet rural charm. The walk from Henley to Hambleden takes you through fields, hedgerows and gentle landscapes. It is ideal for visitors who enjoy scenic routes and is often recommended to those looking for more unusual things to do in Henley on Thames, especially if they prefer experiences away from the busier areas.
Explore the Chiltern Hills
Henley sits close to the Chiltern Hills which are designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is a landscape of beech woods, chalk hills, open fields and sweeping views. There are trails suitable for all abilities and the scenery shifts beautifully with the seasons.
Cycle the local lanes
Cycling is another excellent way to explore the outskirts of Henley. The quiet lanes and rolling countryside offer a refreshing change of pace and allow you to cover more ground while enjoying striking rural views.
Eat, drink and unwind in Henley
Good food and relaxed dining play a central role in the Henley experience. The town is known for its pub culture, its cafés and its warm hospitality. Combined with the culinary offering at Hotel du Vin, visitors are never short of memorable places to eat and drink.
Explore Henley’s pubs and restaurants
Henley has many inviting pubs ranging from traditional coaching inns to contemporary gastropubs. Many sit close to the water and offer excellent views along with hearty menus. In the town centre, you will also find a range of restaurants serving everything from fresh seasonal dishes to internationally inspired menus.
Spend a relaxed evening at Bistro du Vin
For guests staying at Hotel du Vin Henley, the hotel’s own Bistro du Vin is an essential part of the experience. The menu is inspired by classic French cooking with a focus on quality, simplicity and seasonal ingredients. Pair your meal with a glass from the extensive wine list and settle into a warm and characterful setting that feels perfectly suited to Henley’s atmosphere.
Discover wine tasting experiences at Hotel du Vin Henley
Wine has always been at the heart of the Hotel du Vin experience, and Henley is no exception. Guests can take part in curated wine tasting experiences designed to be relaxed, informative and genuinely enjoyable, whether you’re a confident connoisseur or simply curious to learn more.
Led by knowledgeable hosts, these sessions explore a range of styles, regions and grape varieties, with tastings tailored to different interests and group sizes. It’s a sociable way to spend an evening in Henley and a natural extension of the hotel’s wine-led ethos, offering something a little more memorable than a standard night out.
Enjoy a drink in the hotel bar
The hotel bar provides an intimate space for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap. With comfortable seating, rich textures and a calm, welcoming ambience, it is an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Visit nearby attractions
Henley’s location makes it convenient for exploring more of Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley.
Greys Court
This National Trust property is known for its beautiful gardens, medieval features and peaceful woodland. It is particularly lovely in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
Stonor Park
Stonor Park is a historic family home surrounded by landscaped grounds and deer filled parkland. Exhibitions and walking routes add variety to a day out and make it a popular choice for visitors with an interest in heritage.
Explore nearby Marlow
Only a short drive from Henley, the neighbouring town of Marlow offers another attractive riverside setting, great restaurants and boutique shopping. It is a worthwhile addition for anyone wanting to expand their list of things to do in Henley-on-Thames and the surrounding area.
Return to comfort at Hotel du Vin Henley
After a day spent discovering the top things to do in Henley, return to the charm and comfort of Hotel du Vin Henley. The hotel occupies the site of a former brewery which gives the building its distinctive character. Rooms are stylish and restful. Communal spaces feel warm and inviting. Bistro du Vin offers memorable dining, and the bar provides a calm retreat for relaxed evenings.
Henley on Thames is a town that encourages you to slow down and appreciate the moment. With riverside walks, cultural highlights, countryside trails and food worth lingering over, it offers something for every visitor. Whether you are here to explore, unwind or enjoy a romantic escape, Hotel du Vin is the perfect base for your stay.
Things to Do in Henley FAQs
What are the top things to do in Henley on Thames for first time visitors?
First time visitors should start with a walk along the Thames Path, a visit to the River and Rowing Museum and a wander through the historic town centre. A boat trip along the Thames is another highlight and gives a great introduction to the area. These activities provide a balanced overview of Henley’s riverside scenery, culture and relaxed charm.
Are there unusual things to do in Henley-on-Thames?
Yes. Visitors looking for something a little different can hire a self-drive boat, explore the smaller independent galleries, take the scenic walk to Hambleden or plan a countryside cycling route through the Chilterns. These experiences offer a unique perspective on the town and its surroundings.
What romantic things to do in Henley-on-Thames are recommended for couples?
Couples often enjoy a peaceful walk along the Thames Path, a relaxed boat trip, wine and dining at Bistro du Vin or a quiet riverside picnic. The town’s slower pace and scenic views create a naturally romantic setting that suits both leisurely days and special occasions.
Is Henley-on-Thames a good place for a weekend break?
Henley is an ideal choice for a weekend escape. The town offers a blend of riverside relaxation, cultural attractions, countryside walks and excellent dining. Its compact size makes it easy to explore without feeling rushed and Hotel du Vin Henley provides a comfortable and characterful base for your stay.