Top Reasons to Go to the Thames Valley

Windsor Castle: The mystique of eight successive royal houses of the British monarchy permeates Windsor and its famous castle, where a fraction of the current Queen's vast wealth is displayed.

Mapledurham House: This is the house that inspired Toad Hall from The Wind in the Willows; you can picnic here on the grounds and drink in the views.

Oxford: While scholars' noses are buried in their books, you get to sightsee among Oxford University's ancient stone buildings and memorable museums.

Blenheim Palace: The only British historic home to be named a World Heritage Site has magnificent baroque architecture, stunning parkland, and remembrances of Winston Churchill.

Boating on the Thames: Life is slower on the river, and renting a boat or taking a cruise is an ideal way to see verdant riverside pastures and villages. Windsor, Marlow, Henley, and Oxford are good options.