Join Clare Balding for a tranquil journey along Britain’s most iconic waterway, the River Thames. From its humble beginnings in Gloucestershire to its sprawling estuary in Essex, the Thames has shaped history, inspired literature, and provided a lifeline for countless communities.
Balding traces the river’s freshwater origins, meandering through the picturesque countryside. Along the way, she takes in the “dreaming spires” of Oxford, explores the landscapes that gave birth to Kenneth Grahame’s “The Wind in the Willows,” and marvels at the grandeur of Cliveden estate and Windsor Castle. It’s a journey through history, nature, and the heart of England.
But it’s not just about the landmarks. Balding also examines the river’s diverse wildlife, from the birds that grace its banks to the fish that swim in its depths.
“Tales from the Riverbank” Season 1 Episode 3 airs Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 8:00 PM on Channel 5.
