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Start : Tilehurst Railway Station (RG31 6TH). Grid ref. SU 674 751
(S/E) From Tilehurst Station go up to the main road, turn right along the pavement and pass garage showrooms. After the Roebuck turn right at the Thames Path sign, cross the railway.
(1) Go down the steps to the river bank. Turn right beside the railway on an enclosed, tree-lined path. Pass two small islands, Poplar Island and Appletree Eyot before coming to the Reading Marine Chandlery at Scours Lane which supplies all sorts of boating equipment, from bolts and screws through to fenders and engines. It can also supply the boating community with face shields and hand sanitiser.
(2) Soon there are glimpses of St Mary's Island between the trees and on the Oxfordshire side of the river more and more new properties with river frontage are being built between the existing ones. The chalk hills rise up steeply behind them and weeping willow trees help to soften the mishmash of conflicting architectural styles.
(3) The Thames Side Promenade begins after the Cow Lane path where there are plenty of seats available to enjoy the river scenery. There is a signpost to the Rivermead Leisure Complex where there are toilets and refreshment is available.
Just before Caversham Bridge you come to Caversham Pier where river cruises may be booked. Many waterfowl congregate here hoping to be fed. It must be quite a problem clearing up their mess! Go under Caversham Bridge, pass Fry's Island.
(4) Soon bypass Christchurch Bridge, which was built in 2015 to provide a cycle and walkway across the river.
(5) Just past the bridge turn right on the walk and cycle-way signposted to Reading Station.
(6) Cross the main road at the traffic lights and go through the bus/train interchange area to reach the northern entrance to the station. (S/E)
Walker
Tourism industry professional
Moderate 
