Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km)
Start: Shepperton
End: Richmond
Time: 6-7 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Weather Forecast for this Section (Next 7 Days)
Section Overview
This longer stage of the Thames Path follows the river’s gentle bends past lock gates, leafy riverside parks, historic towns, and iconic landmarks. It’s one of the most accessible sections from London, offering a mix of green spaces and vibrant riverside communities.
Shepperton to Sunbury
From Shepperton Lock, the trail keeps to the riverside past quiet islands and moored boats. You soon reach Sunbury Lock, where landscaped lawns and picnic benches provide a perfect early stop. Sunbury itself has a small riverside village feel, with a few pubs and cafés tucked along the high street.
Walton to Molesey & Hampton Court
Leaving Walton, you pass through Molesey and on toward Hurst Park, a large riverside meadow ideal for a break. This open space is popular with dog walkers and picnickers. Beyond Hurst Park, you follow the river past Hampton, where the grounds of Hampton Court Palace begin to appear across the water.
If you have time, a detour across the bridge to explore the palace and gardens is well worth it. You can access the front gardens without having to buy a day ticket.
Hampton to Kingston
The path continues through shaded riverside walks into Kingston upon Thames, a lively town with shops, riverside dining, and a historic marketplace. The river here is often pretty busy with pleasure boats, swans and paddleboarders sharing the water.
From Kingston, the route heads toward Teddington Lock, the last non-tidal lock on the Thames, with an impressive complex of lock gates, weirs, and a pedestrian bridge linking both banks.
Teddington to Richmond
From Teddington Lock, the river becomes tidal and the scenery changes subtly. The path leads through Ham Lands Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife with open meadows and wooded areas. Across the river, you’ll glimpse Marble Hill House and the elegant Georgian terraces of Twickenham.
The approach to Richmond is one of the prettiest urban stretches of the entire trail. Richmond’s riverside has grassy terraces, pubs with outdoor seating, and views upstream toward green meadows. Once you’re ready to head on, the next section of the Thames Path heads towards central London and Westminster.
Next Section
Richmond to Westminster – (12 Miles)
This stage of the Thames Path blends leafy riverside stretches with the gradual transition into the heart of London. Starting in Richmond, you’ll enjoy green open spaces and historic architecture before reaching the iconic sights of Westminster.
Previous Section
Windsor to Shepperton – (13.7 Miles)
From the grand setting of Windsor Castle and Home Park, the Thames Path meanders downstream past royal estates, reservoirs, racecourses, aircraft factories and quiet suburban villages. Although surrounded in places by major transport routes (railways, M25, Heathrow Airport), the river itself remains surprisingly peaceful. It’s a flat, easy stretch, with good transport connections at either end.