Thames meander

Thames meander refers to a long-distance journey over all or part of the River Thames in England. Walking the Thames Path is itself a meander, but the term usually applies to journeys using other methods such as rowing, running, or Swimming.

A Thames meander can be a social expedition over a few days. However more specific meanders are competitive events, or record breaking attempts. Means of propulsion include swimming and running and propelling virtually every type of small craft that floats on water. Meanders are often associated with charity sponsorship. The normal start of a meander for craft is Halfpenny Bridge, Lechlade. The finish is often Teddington Lock but other points in London are used. A “Giant meander” for craft goes all the way to Gravesend Pier. The Thames Meander run begins at Reading, Berkshire.

Examples of Meanders

* Polar explorer and endurance swimmer Lewis Pugh became the first person ever to swim the length of the Thames. His journey started on 17th July 2006 close to the source of the river in Gloucestershire and ended 147 miles later in London. Pugh undertook the challenge to raise awareness of climate change.

* The record row by an individual from Lechlade to Gravesend was set by Malcolm Knight in a skiff at 43 hours 40 minutes 56 seconds in April 2005 [http://www.dittons.org.uk/records/singlemeander/index.php]

* The Thames Meander 54 mile race is an annual cross country running event that takes place every February [http://www.thamesmeander.com]

"Follow a water-based meander by stepping through the locks, starting with St John's Lock"

"Follow a land-based meander along the Thames Path, starting at Water Eaton House Bridge"

See also

* Meander, a bend in a sinuous watercourse.