The Magna Carta barge is a quaint floating hotel that cruises the Royal River Thames. Cruise in style aboard this classy hotel barge stocked with fine wine, gourmet meals and bikes. Custom charter themes include golf, theater, tennis and family cruises.
Classic England River Thames Cruise
On this 7-day barge cruise in England, explore London, castles, gardens, churches, rural villages and the charming English countryside aboard the intimate and stylish 8-guest Magna Carta, with biking and walking options along the way.
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
FROM
$6,790
USD
PER PERSON
/
England’s River Thames offers quaint, scenic countryside and rustic beauty. On this 7-day barge cruise in England, meander past royal palaces, riverside towns and villages aboard the 8-guest Magna Carta canal boat. Experience a real mixture of olde worlde England and the natural beauty of Surrey, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. From Henry VIII’s Hampton Court, cruise past Windsor Castle to Henley, with frequent stops allowing plenty of time to wander and explore while following an old Viking trading route deep into the rural countryside, along the River Thames.
Gentle exploration is the highlight of this London river cruise, with exceptional cycling and walking opportunities along the Royal River Thames. Visit traditional boat builders and art galleries. Enjoy afternoon tea, tour Henry VIII’s apartments and the Royal Chapel, Windsor Castle and its magnificent gardens, England’s oldest inn and Oxford. Enjoy a less crowded European river cruise with charming scenery on this River Thames cruise.
Each departure operates round-trip from London, either cruising west to Henley-on-Thames, with an overland transfer east back to London, or starting with an overland transfer west to Henley-on-Thames and cruising east back to London. Each departure’s direction is typically confirmed 6-8 weeks in advance. The alternative Downton Abbey itinerary adds a visit to Downton Abbey’s Highclere Castle.
The elegant and spacious, air-conditioned, 8-passenger Magna Carta is the perfect hotel barge for this royal river cruise. Her small guest count, doting crew and gastronomic pleasures are sure to delight. And her stylish interiors and sun decks provide an unrivaled view during this England barge cruise.
Consider securing Magna Carta for private charter cruises in England, with theme options such as golf, theater, tennis and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Northern Europe cruises.
Classic Cruise—England Itinerary
London, England to Hampton Court PalaceHenley-on-Thames to London & Depart
The Classic England River Thames Cruise operates round-trip from London. Embark in London and cruise west to Henley-on-Thames, with an overland transfer east back to London. Along the way, explore castles, gardens, churches, royal properties, rural villages and the charming English countryside.
Be met at the Stafford Hotel in central London for afternoon English Cream Tea, before being transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. Champagne reception and welcome by the captain and crew. Dinner on board.
This morning explore the magnificent Hampton Court Palace. Tour Henry VIII’s apartments and the Royal Chapel, feel the chill in the haunted gallery and wonder at the Tudor kitchens. Outside, the gardens are breathtaking with The Great Vine, the oldest in the country still producing grapes and the famous maze. After lunch aboard, cruise through Sunbury, Molesey and Shepperton Locks to a private mooring. Optional pub visit before dinner on board.
After breakfast, cruise through Runnymede to Windsor, past the Magna Carta Memorial and Magna Carta Island where in 1215, King John was forced to meet the powerful barons and seal the historic document. The afternoon excursion is to Windsor Castle. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and a royal home for over 900 years by the Royal Family, this is the largest inhabited castle in the world. Explore the State Apartments, see Queen Mary’s Dolls House and St George’s Chapel, and enjoy the far-reaching views. Dinner on board.
This morning, take a short drive to the Tudor manor house of Dorney Court, a very special home that has been owned by the Palmer family for more than 450 years and used regularly as a film location. Later, cruise upstream past the fabulous waterside houses of Bray and through the spectacular Cliveden Reach to an exclusive mooring on the Cliveden estate. Once home to the Astor family, it has amazing gardens and was, of course, the scene of much political scandal and intrigue. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, tour the grounds of Cliveden and learn about the history of the house and stories of intrigue and scandal! Then take a short drive to Cookham to visit the Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham and take a walk around the village he once described as “Heaven on Earth,” before cruising through Marlow to Hurley. Tour Peter Freebody’s boatyard nearby and watch in wonder as the traditional craftsmen build and restore classic wooden craft. Take time to explore the ancient village, including Ye Olde Bell, reputed to be the oldest inn in the country, before returning to the hotel barge. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, walk the village of Hurley and visit Peter Freebody’s boatyard. Here, see craftsmen build and restore wooden boats at a yard that is family owned and has been for centuries. A morning cruise to Henley-on-Thames through fabulous countryside to your final mooring along the famous Henley Regatta rowing course. Then, an earlier lunch, followed by a fascinating tour of Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college, founded by Cardinal Wolsey and then again by King Henry VIII. The magnificent surroundings were also where Lewis Carroll wrote Alice in Wonderland. Captain’s farewell dinner on board.
After breakfast, disembark and be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to central London or the airport.
Included
Transfers between central London and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 1 hour or 1.5 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including DVD players in each cabin, bicycles and a spa pool.
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The main Classic England River Thames Cruise operates round-trip from London, England (LHR), cruising to Henley-on-Thames and ending with an overland transfer back to London. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to London in time for 3:00pm afternoon tea with your captain at The Stafford Hotel, London, followed by a transfer to the ship, on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart London no earlier than 2:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Stafford Hotel by 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking and biking along the way.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a $2,300 (value departures in 2026) or $2,700 (regular departures in 2026), in addition to the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability.
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Reverse Classic Cruise—England Itinerary
London to Henley-on-Thames & EmbarkHampton Court Palace, London
The reverse Classic England River Thames Cruise operates round-trip from London. Begin with an overland transfer west to Henley-on-Thames, then cruise east back to London. Along the way, explore castles, gardens, churches, royal properties, rural villages and the charming English countryside.
Be met at the Stafford Hotel in central London for afternoon English Cream Tea, before being transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. Enjoy a champagne welcome and an introduction to the crew, and perhaps an evening stroll along the towpath. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, drive to Oxford for a fascinating tour of Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college, founded by Cardinal Wolsey and then again by King Henry VIII. The magnificent surroundings were also where Lewis Carroll wrote Alice in Wonderland. After lunch, cruise the famous Regatta Mile, where every July, rowing teams from around the world compete in front of champagne and Pimms-fuelled crowds, then continue through fabulous countryside to Hurley. Here, tour Peter Freebody’s boatyard nearby and watch in wonder as the traditional craftsmen build and restore classic wooden craft. Take time to explore the ancient village, including Ye Olde Belle, reputed to be the oldest inn in the country, before returning to the hotel barge. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, cruise through Marlow to Cookham for a visit to the Stanley Spencer Gallery, which celebrates the paintings of one of England’s greatest and most eccentric artists. Take a walk around this picturesque village he once described as “Heaven on Earth” and where he painted much of his work, then continue the cruise into the spectacular Cliveden Reach to an exclusive mooring on the Cliveden estate. Tour the grounds of Cliveden and learn about the history of the house and stories of intrigue and scandal! Dinner on board.
This morning, take a tour of the Cliveden estate. Once home to the Astor family, it has amazing gardens and was, of course, the scene of much political scandal and intrigue. After lunch, cruise past the fabulous waterside houses of Bray to the ship’s mooring right in the heart of Royal Windsor. Enjoy a late afternoon tour of the Tudor manor house, Dorney Court, a very special home that has been owned by the Palmer family for more than 450 years and used regularly as a film location. Dinner on board.
Enjoy a morning tour of Windsor Castle, a short walk from the ship’s mooring. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and a royal home for over 900 years, this is the largest inhabited castle in the world. Explore the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel, see Queen Mary’s Dolls House and enjoy the far-reaching views. During lunch, cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of the castle and past the meadows of Runnymede and Magna Carta Island, where in 1215 King John was forced to meet the powerful barons and seal the historic document. Consider using the spa facilities of the Runnymede-on-Thames Hotel, then continue cruising to a secluded overnight mooring near Shepperton lock. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, spend the morning cruising through countryside and the delightful riverside towns and locks of Sunbury and Molesey to a special final mooring right by Hampton Court Palace. After lunch, explore the magnificent Palace, touring Henry VIII’s apartments and the Royal Chapel. Feel the chill in the haunted gallery and wonder at the Tudor kitchens. Outside, the gardens are stunning, with The Great Vine, the oldest in the country still producing grapes and the famous maze. Captain’s farewell dinner on board.
After breakfast, be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to central London or the airport.
Included
Transfers between central London and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 1 hour or 1.5 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including DVD players in each cabin, bicycles and a spa pool.
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The reverse Classic England River Thames Cruise operates round-trip from London, England (LHR), beginning with an overland transfer to Henley-on-Thames and cruising back to London. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to London in time for 3:00pm afternoon tea with your captain at The Stafford Hotel, London, followed by a transfer to the ship, on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart London no earlier than 2:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Stafford Hotel by 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking and biking along the way.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a $2,300 (value departures in 2026) or $2,700 (regular departures in 2026), in addition to the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability.
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Classic Cruise—England (Including Downtown Abbey) Itinerary
London, England to Hampton Court PalaceHenley-on-Thames to London & Depart
The Classic England River Thames Including Downtown Abbey Cruise operates round-trip from London. Embark in London and cruise west to Henley-on-Thames, with an overland transfer east back to London. Along the way, explore castles, gardens, churches, royal properties, a special visit to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey), plus rural villages and the charming English countryside.
Be met at the Stafford Hotel in central London for afternoon English Cream Tea, before being transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. Champagne reception and welcome by the captain and crew. Dinner on board.
This morning explore the magnificent Hampton Court Palace. Tour Henry VIII’s apartments and the Royal Chapel, feel the chill in the haunted gallery and wonder at the Tudor kitchens. Outside, the gardens are breathtaking with The Great Vine, the oldest in the country still producing grapes and the famous maze. After lunch, cruise through Molesey Lock and moor at Runnymede. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, consider using the spa facilities of the Runnymede-on-Thames Hotel. Then cruise to Windsor, past the Magna Carta Memorial and Magna Carta Island, where in 1215, King John was forced to meet the powerful barons and seal the historic document. The afternoon excursion is to Windsor Castle. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and a royal home for over 900 years by the Royal Family, this is the largest inhabited castle in the world. Explore the State Apartments, see Queen Mary’s Dolls House and St George’s Chapel, and enjoy the far-reaching views. Dinner on board.
This morning, take a short drive to the Tudor manor house of Dorney Court, a very special home that has been owned by the Palmer family for more than 450 years and used regularly as a film location. Later, cruise upstream past the fabulous waterside houses of Bray and through the spectacular Cliveden Reach to an exclusive mooring on the Cliveden estate. Once home to the Astor family, it has amazing gardens and was, of course, the scene of much political scandal and intrigue. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, drive to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey), one of England’s most beautiful Victorian castles set amidst 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland. The Carnarvon family has lived at Highclere since 1679, and the current castle stands on the site of an earlier house, which in turn was built on the foundations of the medieval palace owned by the Bishops of Winchester for some 800 years. A longstanding friend of the Carnarvon family, Julian Fellowes had Highclere Castle in mind as he wrote Downton Abbey. He often commented he wanted a house which spectacularly testified to the confidence and soaring optimism of the Edwardian period. After lunch, cruise farther upstream to visit the Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham and take a walk around the village he once described as “Heaven on Earth,” before cruising through Marlow to Hurley. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, walk the village of Hurley and visit Peter Freebody’s boatyard. Here, see craftsmen build and restore wooden boats at a yard that is family owned and has been for centuries. A morning cruise to Henley-on-Thames through fabulous countryside to your final mooring along the famous Henley Regatta rowing course. Then, an earlier lunch, followed by a fascinating tour of Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college, founded by Cardinal Wolsey and then again by King Henry VIII. The magnificent surroundings were also where Lewis Carroll wrote Alice in Wonderland. Captain’s farewell dinner on board.
After breakfast, disembark and be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to central London or the airport.
Included
Transfers between central London and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 1 hour or 1.5 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including DVD players in each cabin, bicycles and a spa pool.
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The alternative Classic England River Thames Including Downtown Abbey Cruise operates round-trip from London, England (LHR), cruising to Henley-on-Thames and ending with an overland transfer back to London. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to London in time for 3:00pm afternoon tea with your captain at The Stafford Hotel, London, followed by a transfer to the ship, on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart London no earlier than 2:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Stafford Hotel by 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking and biking along the way.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a $2,300 (value departures in 2026) or $2,700 (regular departures in 2026), in addition to the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability.
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Reverse Classic Cruise—England (Including Downton Abbey) Itinerary
London to Henley-on-Thames & EmbarkHampton Court Palace, London
The reverse Classic England River Thames Including Downton Abbey Cruise operates round-trip from London. Begin with an overland transfer west to Henley-on-Thames, then cruise east back to London. Along the way, explore castles, gardens, churches, royal properties, a special visit to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey), plus rural villages and the charming English countryside.
Be met at the Stafford Hotel in central London for afternoon English Cream Tea, before being transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. Enjoy a champagne welcome and an introduction to the crew, and perhaps an evening stroll along the towpath. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, drive to Oxford for a fascinating tour of Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college, founded by Cardinal Wolsey and then again by King Henry VIII. The magnificent surroundings were also where Lewis Carroll wrote Alice in Wonderland. After lunch, cruise the famous Regatta Mile, where every July, rowing teams from around the world compete in front of champagne and Pimms-fuelled crowds, then continue through fabulous countryside to Hurley. Here, tour Peter Freebody’s boatyard nearby and watch in wonder as the traditional craftsmen build and restore classic wooden craft. Take time to explore the ancient village, including Ye Olde Belle, reputed to be the oldest inn in the country, before returning to the hotel barge. Dinner on board.
This morning, drive to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey), one of England’s most beautiful Victorian Castles set amidst 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland. The Carnarvon family has lived at Highclere since 1679, and the current Castle stands on the site of an earlier house, which in turn was built on the foundations of the medieval palace owned by the Bishops of Winchester for some 800 years. Longstanding friend of the Carnarvon family, Julian Fellowes had Highclere Castle in mind as he wrote Downton Abbey. He often commented he wanted a house which spectacularly testified to the confidence and soaring optimism of the Edwardian period. After lunch, cruise through Marlow to Cookham to visit the Stanley Spencer Gallery, which celebrates the paintings of one of England’s greatest and most eccentric artists. Take a walk around this picturesque village he once described as “Heaven on Earth” and where he painted much of his work, then continue the cruise into the spectacular Cliveden Reach to an exclusive mooring on the Cliveden estate. Dinner on board.
This morning, take a tour of the Cliveden estate. Once home to the Astor family, it has amazing gardens and was, of course, the scene of much political scandal and intrigue. After lunch, cruise past the fabulous waterside houses of Bray to the ship’s mooring right in the heart of Royal Windsor. Enjoy a late afternoon tour of the Tudor manor house, Dorney Court, a very special home that has been owned by the Palmer family for more than 450 years and used regularly as a film location. Dinner on board.
Enjoy a morning tour of Windsor Castle, a short walk from the ship’s mooring. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and a royal home for over 900 years, this is the largest inhabited castle in the world. Explore the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel, see Queen Mary’s Dolls House and enjoy the far-reaching views. During lunch, cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of the castle and past the meadows of Runnymede and Magna Carta Island, where in 1215 King John was forced to meet the powerful barons and seal the historic document. Consider using the spa facilities of the Runnymede-on-Thames Hotel, then continue cruising to a secluded overnight mooring near Shepperton lock. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, spend the morning cruising through countryside and the delightful riverside towns and locks of Sunbury and Molesey to a special final mooring right by Hampton Court Palace. After lunch, explore the magnificent Palace, touring Henry VIII’s apartments and the Royal Chapel. Feel the chill in the haunted gallery and wonder at the Tudor kitchens. Outside, the gardens are stunning, with The Great Vine, the oldest in the country still producing grapes and the famous maze. Captain’s farewell dinner on board.
After breakfast, be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to central London or the airport.
Included
Transfers between central London and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 1 hour or 1.5 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including DVD players in each cabin, bicycles and a spa pool.
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The reverse alternative Classic England River Thames Including Downtown Abbey Cruise operates round-trip from London, England (LHR), beginning with an overland transfer to Henley-on-Thames and cruising back to London. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to London in time for 3:00pm afternoon tea with your captain at The Stafford Hotel, London, followed by a transfer to the ship, on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart London no earlier than 2:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Stafford Hotel by 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking and biking along the way.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a $2,300 (value departures in 2026) or $2,700 (regular departures in 2026), in addition to the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability.
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The 8-guest Magna Carta barge cruises England's River Thames at a meandering pace that ensures her guests don't miss the royal palaces, quaint riverside towns and astounding countryside. Originally built in the 1930’s, today she is a classy and spacious floating country hotel boasting a combination of traditional and modern features and an inviting onboard ambiance.
Magna Carta Barge Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Magna Carta review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Magna Carta barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Magna Carta River Thames barge with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Magna Carta canal boat in England if you are seeking a stylish and refined England barge with a small guest count, doting crew and gastronomic delights. This hotel barge cruises some of the prettiest stretches of the Royal River Thames, accessing small art galleries, stately homes and beautiful gardens which larger riverboats can't reach. Along the way, Magna Carta's guests may enjoy walking and biking along an ever-present recreational path. This canal boat in England is also an ideal ship for private charter cruises, with theme options such as golf, theater, tennis and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary.
Common Areas Aboard Magna Carta
This England barge's fine mahogany, teak and oak woods create a charming old-world atmosphere, which is complemented by modern amenities such as under-floor heating. Her large saloon and dining area invite guests to relax among stylish sofas and coffee tables (evocative of period furniture) that sit beside picture windows. Outside, two forward sun decks—an upper and a lower—feature a hot tub and lounge chairs for relaxing, as well as a table ready to set the entire passenger complement for an al fresco meal.
Dining Aboard Magna Carta
The full passenger complement of eight are welcome to indulge at the single dining table, with open seating. Mealtimes are casual, complemented by food and wine pairings from the master chef that offer epicurean delights not soon forgotten. Cuisine is focused on traditional British fare, with international favorites as well. Many allergies and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Most meals offer a set menu. Breakfast may feature a full English cooked meal or continental-style options such as fresh breads, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light 2-course meal with colorful salads, pasta dishes and cold meats, accompanied by hot soup or an entree and dessert. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, complemented by fine wines and followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea and milk are included with all meals, as is a well-stocked bar open 24 hours. The bar offers wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
Activities Aboard Magna Carta
The Magna Carta barge meets its on-land minibus for transfers and excursions that aren't within walking distance of her mooring. The ship welcomes guests to remain on board during excursions as desired, or guests may choose to walk or ride a bike both during excursions or while the England barge cruises. This River Thames barge carries four mountain bikes on board. Additional bicycles, including children’s bikes, can be arranged with advanced notice and at additional cost. Bicycles are available almost anytime, to cycle the towpath alongside the Magna Carta barge while it leisurely cruises the River Thames, or while the England barge is stationary. Onboard entertainment options include a small library of books and maps, a collection of board games, binoculars for birding, a stereo system with CDs and guest iPod connectivity and WiFi access via personal devices (WiFi is subject to availability in remote locations). The open bridge welcomes guests to chat with the captain about the ship and the River Thames.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Magna Carta
The Magna Carta barge offers accommodation for eight guests in four suites, each individually temperature controlled with air conditioning and under-floor central heating plus en suite facilities. Choose between two twin beds or one double bed in the Henry VIII, Shakespeare and Winston Churchill suites, or select the double-bed-only Christopher Wren suite. Each suite’s fully tiled bathroom offers a shower, sink, toilet, heated towel rack, 110v shaver socket, towels, toiletries, hair dryer, bathrobes and an air extractor fan. Each suite also offers four opening windows, a safe, writing desk and chair, bedside table with reading lamps and 2 USB charging ports, and a television with built-in DVD and CD player, all wrapped in hardwood walls and wainscoting. Aside from ensuite bathrooms, this canal boat in England is wired for 240 volts with standard UK 3-pin plugs.
Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect
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Expert Review: What It’s Like on a European Barge Cruise
Bagpipes, whiskey, falcons, towpaths and lochs greeted AdventureSmith’s Lisa as she explored Scotland via a 12-guest barge. Learn all about the European barge cruise experience in this detailed review.
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