Thames Path

The Thames Path is a National Trail that follows the River Thames from its source near Kemble to the Woolwich foot tunnel in south-east London. In the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham it runs along the river’s western bank, using the old towpath between Inglesham and Putney. The route is mostly flat and open, with views across the water to the opposite shore and the city skyline. The towpath here is part of a longer historic route created during the Canal Mania of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The Thames Navigation Commission bought land to build a continuous horse path so barges could be towed upstream to the Thames and Severn Canal. After the railways arrived, horse-drawn traffic declined but the towpath remained in use for walkers. Visitors find a broad, well-maintained gravel path lined with plane trees and benches. It passes under several bridges, including Putney Bridge, and offers glimpses of houseboats moored along the bank. The river is tidal here, so the water level changes with the tides, adding movement to the scene. On the far bank lie Battersea Park and the Battersea Power Station redevelopment, framing the walk with urban landmarks.