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The Thames River is the main river flowing through the city of London.
The Thames River is almost synonymous with the city of London. It is one of the most important rivers flowing through southern England. It also passes through Windsor, Oxford and Reading. The area around West London and Oxford is known as the Thames valley.
River Thames in the ancient past
The River Thames has been a witness to many a historical event. The most apt description of the river is probably the one given by MP John Burns when he referred to the river as ‘Liquid History’. A glance into the historical past of the river gives one an idea about its origin. It was once a tributary of the River Rhine. About 10,000 years ago, during the Ice Age, the Thames altered its course and steered towards the Chiltern Hill. Over the period of the next 3000 years, the river began flowing through its present course.
In the ancient times, the tribes that made their settlements on the banks of the River Thames used it for their sustenance. It was the center of economic activities like fishing, trade, milling and farming. Gradually feuds originated between the different tribes for establishing control over the waterway. In the later years, castles and forts were built on the river banks as it served a position of great strategic importance.
Over the years, the river bank was used for the
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construction of several grand structures including palaces and monasteries. The impressive line up of buildings on the river bank led to it been called a “string of pearls”. The 18th century saw tremendous development of trade and economic activities in Europe. London was at the center of this and became one of the busiest ports in the whole of England. At the time of Industrial Revolution, the system of canals in London was connected to that of southern England. By a similar system, Thames was connected to the Midlands and the North of England.
Course of the River Thames
The River Thames offers something or the other for everyone. The region of the Upper Thames is perfect for enjoying the scenic beauty of the river. The river then flows through Lechlade up till Eynsford and is the home to birds like ducks, kingfishers and mammals.
As it flows through the Oxford region, the river attains a greater speed and is mostly used for cruising. It flows through places like Richmond, Kew, Chiswick, Putney, Kingston and Hampton Court. Several of the monumental structures in the British capital are located beside the Thames River. These include London Bridge, Westminster Bridge, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and St. Paul's Cathedral. The river Thames and its banks is thus one of the premier tourist attractions in the city.
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