The Thames is the reason Walton looks the way it does, and it's still the easiest way to spend an afternoon here. For a boat trip without hiring anything yourself, JGF Passenger Boats runs the Shepperton Cruise, a crewed 45-minute circular trip from Cowey Sale beside Walton Bridge. If you'd rather be at the controls, Walton Boat Hire advertises self-drive day boats from Walton Marina, and Walton Rowing Club runs learn-to-row courses for adults and younger rowers who want to get properly active on the water.
Two small passenger ferries add a different way to cross the river: the Sunbury Ferry links Lower Sunbury with the Walton side of the Thames, and the Shepperton to Weybridge Ferry carries pedestrians and bicycles a little further downstream. For paddling, Hampton Court Paddle Sports hires kayaks, canoes and paddleboards near Hampton Court, and Queen Mary Sailing Club and Shepperton Open Water Swim offer more structured watersports for confident swimmers and sailors.
A relaxed 45-minute crewed river cruise departing right beside Walton Bridge
Usually mid-March to late October. Book ahead or buy on arrival, subject to capacity; check the current timetable
Checked 22 August 2026
Self-drive day boats from Walton Marina, no licence required
Usually Easter to October. Booking is by enquiry — confirm boats are running before building a visit around it
Checked 22 August 2026
A small passenger ferry crossing that turns a riverside walk into a circular route
Weekends and Bank Holidays in season. Weather and river dependent, check before setting out
Checked 22 August 2026
A centuries-old pedestrian and cycle ferry crossing between Shepperton and Weybridge
Daily in the main season with a reduced winter service; operates only when weather and river conditions permit
Checked 22 August 2026
Learn to row on the Thames with a long-established local club
A club activity, not a drop-in attraction — enquire about current courses and availability
Checked 22 August 2026
Kayak, canoe and paddleboard hire and lessons on the Thames near Hampton Court
Check age, ability, supervision and weather requirements before booking
Checked 22 August 2026
A dedicated open-water swimming lake with induction sessions for new swimmers
Adult-focused venue with specific coaching requirements for under-18s — read all safety and booking information first
Checked 22 August 2026
A major reservoir sailing and watersports centre with organised courses
Check membership, course, age and booking requirements for your chosen activity
Checked 22 August 2026
Return to the full Things to Do in Walton-on-Thames hub, or see free things to do for a no-booking riverside walk and parks and walks for more of the Thames Path on foot.
