Reading Abbey River Shuttle

Reading Abbey River Shuttle

Explore the Waterways of Reading

Cruise from Caversham to Reading Abbey

We now run a special cruise from Caversham (with stops along the way) to Reading Abbey twice daily (please see timetable). What better and more relaxing way could there be to explore the Thames and then join the Kennet before arriving in the heart of Reading at The Abbey.

We are sorry there will be no Abbey Shuttle services on Sturday 17th August and Wednesday 28th August due to mechanical issues with the vessel operating this route. We would noramlly have a stand by boat but this sailing required a specific shallow draft vessel. 

Reading Abbey

Timetable

Outbound Return Outbound Return
11.00 13.40 Caversham Pier 14.00 16.40
11.10 13.20 Caversham Lock & Lido 14.10 16.20
11.40 12.50 Blakes Lock for Fishermans Cottage 14.40 15.50
12.00 12.45 Bel & the Dragon & Lock Museum 15.00 15.45
12.10 12.35 Duke Street Bridge & Museum of English Rural Life 15.10 15.35
12.15 12.30 Abbey Ruins 15.15 15.30

Sailings operate on: 11th May, 29th May, 1st June, 27th July, 31st July, 3rd August, 7th August, 10th August, 14th August, 17th August, 28th August and 31st August.

The Waterways of Reading

Reading Abbey Quarter has been rejuvenated with substantial works having been undertaken at the Abbey (free to visit) and next to this is Reading Museum. We have two more main stops on the round Reading Waterways cruise. Firstly Duke Street Bridge, which is the gateway to the town centre and the Museum of English Rural Life as well as  The Oracle shopping centre and a short walk from the main streets. If you are looking for a lunch stop, the Bel and the Dragon pub is a great waterside venue and has a private landing stage, this is also the stop for Blakes Lock Museum.

Sailing from Caversham Pier to Abbey Wharf the boat will pass through both  Caversham Lock on the Thames and Blakes Lock on the Kennet. It is a relatively short but entertaining cruise with lots to see. Taking around one hour and fifteen minutes, the relaxed way to commute, go shopping or simply to get a new perspective on Reading.

Kennet Bridge
In association with Reading Borough Council

Ticket Prices

Caversham to Reading Abbey Cruise Ticket Prices. Ticket Price valid for all boarding and set down points.

Ticket Single Return
Adult £11 £16
Senior £10.50 £15
Child £8 £10
Family 2 +2 £34 £47

Departure Point

The cruise to and from Caversham will depart from and return to Caversham Pier. It will pass through Caversham Lock and Blakes Lock calling at the Bel and the Dragon and Duke Street Bridge before arriving at Abbey Wharf.

For those boarding in Caversham our boarding point is at Caversham Promenade or Caversham Pier (they are next to each other) by Reading Rowing club beside Caversham Bridge Reading . There are car parks nearby which are often free at the weekend.

Book Tickets Caversham – Reading Abbey – Caversham

Wheelchair Access

The boat operating this service is single deck with wide access. Not all landing stages during this trial are wheelchair friendly although the boat does carry a ramp. 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.

Need some help?

If you would like more information about a cruise, boat trip or wish to discuss a party or private charter booking, please call Theresa in our planning office on 0118 948 1088 or email us using the contact form below.