Route News
The flood spot at Ewen has finally dried up. It remained under water until the first week of July. The field before North Meadow is also dry. Which means that North Meadow itself is fully open – although the fritillaries have long gone. It also means the Path is completely flood free.Halfpenny Bridge at Lechlade remains closed to traffic but pedestrian access is unaffected and the Thames Path is open.
The diversion at Swinford Bridge has now ended.
We’ve had reports of giant hogweed growing in the upper sections, particularly around Chimney Meadows. This can cause burns/blisters so take care and, if possible, wear long trousers.
Other diversions currently in place:
The diversion at Benson is set to be in place for a long time, at least for the duration of this year. This diversion is in place because the bridge over the weir is deemed to be unsafe. A boat service ferries walkers across the river to Benson Lock thus avoiding the diversion.
Diversions remain in place around the closed boardwalk upstream from Marsh Lock, Henley. If walking downstream, there seems to be a sign missing: if you get to the fenced off boardwalk leading to Marsh Lock then you’ve missed the turn. There is a path leading to your left about 20 yards before the boardwalk.
A diversion was put in place in June at Temple Lock, just past Hurley. Once again, the bridge has been deemed to be unsafe. So, instead of crossing the river onto the left bank and walking into Marlow, you must follow paths, lanes and then a road on the right bank through Bisham and into Marlow. It’s possible to cross the river at Hambledon Lock and follow paths on the left bank through Medmenham and all the way to Marlow. It’s a little convoluted but avoids walking on the road through Bisham.
At Teddington, structural work is starting on Monday (June 26) on the footbridge. Whilst there is no scheduled closure, it’s quite possible that the bridge may close at short notice for an unspecified period of time. Teddington marks the start of the “dual Thames Path” where a left bank option opens up as well as the right bank. Should the bridge be closed, then you’ll just have to continue on the right bank until the next bridge which is at Richmond.
Further details of all these diversions can be seen on our website. We try to keep this page current so, in the absence of a newsletter, please refer to this. | 
