Classic Dutch Barge | Bourne End Marina, Cookham
Enjoy a self drive boating holiday aboard our classic Dutch Barge on the picturesque River Thames. Magpies and Butterflies has been lovingly restored to make our boat into a ‘country cottage on the water’ but with lots of technology including WIFI and ipad pro’s. It’s a quirky escape for those in need of something a bit different. Being on the water and surrounded by nature is not only relaxing but good for the soul! In a picturesque part of Berkshire, there are many walks, pubs, restaurants and art galleries to enjoy when you choose somewhere to moor.
Your trip will start from either Bourne End marina or from the Cookham towpath. From there you can head upstream to Marlow, Henley and the beautiful Sonning. For longer trips, you could even make it to Oxford! Downstream you can visit Bray (with its amazing restaurants,The Waterside Inn, The Fat Duck and The Hinds Head), Windsor and onwards past Shepperton to Walton and Hampton Court. You can go as far as Teddington lock, but no further as then the river becomes tidal.
The boat is suitable for a maximum of 4 people. It has a front double cabin and second twin cabin. It’s complete with galley kitchen, shower and WC, living space and wheelhouse. As you step aboard onto the wheelhouse, there is a seating area and a cabin leading down to the second bedroom. This room has twin beds. In the main saloon, there is seating for 4, a dining table, a cosy wood burner, a small galley kitchen with two gas hobs, fridge and a Nespresso coffee machine with milk frother. There is also a bathroom which has a shower and toilet. The boat is centrally heated using a special system that’s thermostatically controlled.
Key Attractions
Cliveden Gardens
Cliveden Gardens stands on a high wooded plateau overlooking the River Thames. The name “Cliveden” (formerly Cliffdden or Clyyeden) means “valley among cliffs”.
The gardens is a treat for active families, with plenty to do on the land plus family boat hire and scenic public cruises available April through October.
Other highlights include the endless gorgeous landscaping to explore including topiary, statuary, the splendid Long Garden and the floral Parterre. There are also formal gardens with ancient tree linings, plus riverside walks and woodland trails.
For more information on Cliveden Gardens, click on the link here
The Stanley Spencer Gallery
The Stanley Spencer Gallery is situated in the heart of Cookham, the picturesque ‘village in heaven’ where Spencer was born and painted for most of his life. Established in 1962, the building was transformed over 10 years ago into a magnificent modern art museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Spencer paintings, drawings, personal letters, photographs, press cuttings and books.
The Spencer Spencer Gallery is unique, being the only gallery in Britain devoted exclusively to an artist in the village where he was born and spent most of his life.
To learn more about The Stanley Spencer Gallery, click the link here
Marlow Bridge
Marlow Bridge is a road traffic and foot bridge over the River Thames in England between the town of Marlow, Buckinghamshire and the village of Bisham in Berkshire. It crosses the Thames just upstream of Marlow Lock, on the reach to Temple Lock. The bridge is a Grade I listed building.
Nearby restaurants & pubs
The Kings Arms
The Kings Arms is a premium pub, bar and restaurant ideally situated in the heart of the picturesque town of Cookham. The perfect destination for brunch, lunch and dinner. Offering the ultimate setting to relax, dine and mingle in the optimum style and comfort. With a delightful outdoor space, you’ll be able to soak up the sunshine with a refreshing cocktail and tuck into a delicious selection of light bites.
For more information on The Kings Arms, click on the link here
Bel & The Dragon
Bel and The Dragon Cookham is only a short stroll from the Thames path. This country in combines 600 years of history with the best in modern cuisine. Bel and The Dragon has recently undergone significant renovations work. The large terrace and outside seating area offers a great place to relax on a lazy summer afternoon.
For more information on Bel and The Dragon, click on the link here
