River & Rowing Museum

We cannot praise the refurbished museum highly enough. The Little Willows section alone must be award-winning in itself for its attractive and thoughtful design, and so many beautiful things for little children to explore. Well done. You should feel very proud of yourselves.

Situated along the serene banks of the Thames, the River and Rowing Museum in Henley isn't just a destination; it's a voyage into the world of aquatic wonder.Picture this: rowing history meets interactive exhibits in a building that's as sleek as a racing shell. The museum's design itself is an ode to the sleek and streamlined world of rowing, giving you a taste of what it's like to glide gracefully through the water.From antique boats that seem straight out of a Jules Verne novel to the riveting history of the Henley Royal Regatta, the museum takes you on a fascinating voyage through time. It's like a time machine where you trade your oars for a paddle through history.But it's not all history and no play. The museum knows how to keep things exciting. With hands-on activities for the little (and not-so-little) adventurers, you can try your hand at rowing, even if your only experience with it involves a canoe and a dodgy life vest.The pièce de résistance? The Wind in the Willows exhibition! Follow in the webbed footsteps of Ratty and Mole as you explore the world of Kenneth Grahame's beloved characters. It's a whimsical journey down memory lane that'll make you want to jump in a boat and explore the riverbank yourself.So, whether you're a seasoned rowing enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a well-crafted museum, Henley's River and Rowing Museum will leave you feeling like you've embarked on a memorable adventure. Dive in and let the tides of history carry you away – you'll thank us later!

Great museum with cafe. The rowing part is nice but we especially liked the Henley and the wind in the willow galleries. It is a great place to satisfy visitors from all ages and there are very good toilets to change babies. The shop is well provisioned with all type of merchandise.

A great museum, prefect for adults and children,I took few photos.

Took my daughter to have a look around. Very nice reception staff. Amazing historical information but the 'Wind in the Willows ' model display was the best. Magical for children. Very busy cafe, could have been a bit more tidy, but nice food.

A nice little museum about Henley, rowing and the River Thames. There's a great display about Wind in the Willows which our kids seemed to really enjoy - do get the audio description!

The river and rowing museum was closed, after 5 pm at the public holiday. The entrance itself is for the cost. Only could enjoy cafeteria right next to it at that time, which was still open with indoor and outdoor seating. Museum from the outside did look like it can be good interest for kids, but I recommend to check that out.

Beautifully conceived and executed museum. We visited with our art history group mainly to see the wonderful John Piper Gallery, but were fascinated to see the other exhibits, especially the River Gallery and the Wind in the Willows presentation. Excellent, well-stocked shop, as well! (Unfortunately the café was closed, due to franchise issues we understand, but it looked very attractive.)

Great little local place with. Plenty of parking + a friendly cafe for kids + dogs.

This is a modern museum, with information on rivers (unsurprisingly focusing on the Thames), rowing (both leisure and competitive), and The Wind in the Willows. It is free for Art Fund members, has a shop, cafe, and toilets.