Cruising Down A Poet's Dream On The Iconic River Thames

Flowing through the heart of the British capital and dominating its landscape as

it has for centuries, the Thames is a lot more than the country's longest river. Snaking its way across central London, Reading, Oxford and Windsor, this 346km long river is a living British icon in its own right. Having been featured in everything from Charles Dickens's novels, Sherlock Holmes adventures Wordsworth's and Eliot's poetry to James Bond movies and Monet's paintings, this monumental river has undoubtedly secured a timeless role in the conscience of the artistic world.

And rightfully so, housing over 80 picturesque islands, the river is also a hub of international trade due to the strategic position of the Port Of London. Home to a freshwater and a seawater eco-system, the sights along the river Thames are as breathtaking and as enchanting as its vibrant history. Must-see venues that are a staple on any tour down the Thames include the sky-piercing London Eye as well as the Houses of Parliament. The islands that dot the river include expansive estuarial bayous such as Isle of Grain, Isle of Sheppey and Canvey Island while quaint wooded islands the likes of Headpile Eyot and Rose Isle are also found. Other isles of historic interest include Fry's Island, Magna Carta Island and Pharaoh's Island in addition to picturesque Glover's Island.

The captivating bridges that connect the river as it divides cities and communities include the colossal Tower Bridge, Newbridge in Oxfordshire, the Millennium Footbridge near St. Paul's Cathedral, and Maidenhead's Railway Bridge while a host of other equally famous footbridges also line the river's path. Guest can also look forward to seeing black-headed gulls, cormorants and herring gulls also occupy the river bed in addition to schools of meandering swans. The illusive black swan also graces its waters on occasion although herons, kingfishers and great crested grebes are a common sight when navigating the Thames while coots and moorhen are also visible.

A hotbed of activity throughout the year, the river is also a preferred venue for sporting activities such as kayaking, rowing, punting, sailing and skiffing. Hosting the Henley Royal Regatta and the University Boat Race each year, the Thames can be dubbed the home base of water sports activities in Britain with a repertoire of over 200 clubs to its name.

Those in search of a luxury London hotel will hardly be disappointed at The Langham London. Having dominated the city's skyline for over 140 years, this elegant London hotel sets the standard for top-notch accommodations as one of Europe's premier rests.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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