Make a really special day for you and your family, combine a gentle river cruise from Caversham in Reading to Beale Wildlife Park near Pangbourne. The perfect way to beat the traffic, see open countryside and make a day to remember for everyone. Let us whisk you away from the hustle and bustle through Wind in the Willows County to a world of Meerkats, Wallabies, Macaws and so much more.
After spending a little under 2 hours, winding our way through open countryside, past hidden islands and passing through 2 locks in picture-perfect scenery, our ferry service will bring you to the private Beale Park landing stage
Beale Wildlife Park is a day out for all ages, particularly popular with families. Adventure play areas and paddling pools are combined with unique wildlife attractions, unusual animals, and stunning gardens. The fun is not limited to larger children, for younger ones there are indoor play areas and the Little Tikes outdoor village. Of course, none of this would be complete without the parks very own narrow gauge railway.
Don’t panic about space to sit and relax, as well as the gardens there is a picnic area and park restaurant.
Beale Park offers a discount on tickets booked more than 48 hours in advance. For full details of what you can do and see plus online booking click here
You are welcome to join us either one way or return and tickets can be purchased online or on the day of sailing. Preferential boarding is offered for those pre-booked. Our morning departure from Caversham will slip the mooring lines promptly at 1030 and cruise up river.
Spot birds and wildlife as the boat follows the twist and turns of the river to Mapledurham Lock and weir, passing through the lock we enter a very unspoilt reach to Pangbourne. Navigating under the historic Whitchurch bridge and then through our second lock we enter a broader section of river with a very Wind in the Willows feel. Arriving at Beale Park for around 12.15. The return cruise departs the Beale Park landing stage at 15.45 arriving Caversham Pier around 17.30-17.45 (this allows for a little river traffic)
Our boats have a full bar onboard, hot and cold drinks as well as a selection of snacks.
Our 2018 timetable includes sailings:
May – 20th May, daily 28th May- 1st June (half term)
June – 1st June and 17th June
July – 15th July, 24th July, 26th July and 31st July
August – 2nd August, 5th August, 7th August, 9th August, 14th August and 16th August
September – 9th September
All services will depart from our boarding point at Caversham Promenade or Caversham Pier (they are next to each other) by Reading Rowing club beside Caversham Bridge Reading and arrive at the private landing stage at Beale Park. Returning from the same stage at Beale Park and arriving at Caversham Pier. There are car parks nearby which are often free at the weekend.
Our boats are multi deck, access is via a ramp and we do have a few limitations with door widths. We recommend giving the office a quick call on 01189 481088 to discuss your requirements and we can advise on the best options for you or your guests. At the Beale Park end, there is a need to walk along somewhat muddy tracks on occasion to reach the entrance.