Riverside Wanders Between Henley-on-Thames and Aston

We lived in Henley-On-Thames for a brief period from May to November 2020. As with every new town we moved to, I was on a mission to discover the best dog walks and playgrounds.

One of my favourite dog and toddler walking routes was the walk between Henley-on-Thames and Aston. A gentle footpath winding alongside the Thames, framed by wildflowers, open fields, and the occasional boat slipping by on the water.

Curiosity, Cows & Giggles

Almost every time we walked this stretch, we’d pass fields dotted with grazing cows. They’d lift their heads slowly as we approached, calm and unbothered. But for Lily and Kira, this was the highlight.

Lily would wave excitedly, calling, “Hello, cows!”
Kira, tail wagging, would tiptoe closer, always respectful, always curious.

We never got too close, of course, but it became a ritual: a moment of wide-eyed wonder, of quiet introductions between species, of simple joy at seeing animals so peacefully living their lives.

The Best Spot on the River

About halfway to Aston, we found our special spot, a gently sloping riverbank next to a bench, where the dogs could leap into the water, and Lily could stand in the mud beside them in her wellies.

Kira would bound in without hesitation, her coat glistening as she swam wide circles. Lily would step carefully into the shallows, picking out smooth stones and throwing them back in, watching the ripples stretch across the surface.

There was laughter, splashing, and endless games involving sticks and stones and imaginary river creatures. It wasn’t anything extraordinary. But at the same time, it absolutely was.

The Kind of Walk That Stays With You 💛

This riverside trail became our little haven, where nature offered up beauty without asking anything in return, and where Lily could grow her love for the outdoors with muddy boots and happy dogs by her side.