The River Thames

　　The River Thames is a famous mother river of Britain, located in the southeast of England. It originates from the Cotswold Hills, flows generally eastward through London, and empties into the North Sea at the Nore. With a total length of approximately 338 kilometers, it is the longest river in England, one of the world’s most bustling urban waterways, and an iconic landmark of London.

　　The River Thames runs through the British capital, London, and over ten other cities along its banks, covering a drainage basin of 13,000 square kilometers. Upstream from London, the riverbanks are dotted with numerous scenic spots, such as Eton, Oxford, Henley, and Windsor. Though not as long as some of the world’s major rivers, the Thames flows through the very heart of Britain’s cultural essence—some might even say it nurtured the brilliant civilization of England. As people often say, “Every drop of water in the Thames contains a piece of British history.” This vividly illustrates the irreplaceable place the Thames holds in the hearts of the British people.

　　The Thames Estuary is bustling with commercial shipping, while the upper reaches of the river are famed for their serene beauty and are considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. Since 1856, the annual Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race during Easter and the Royal Henley Regatta in summer have been held on the river.

　　River Thames Must-visit reason: The longest river in England Continent: Europe Country/Region: United Kingdom Province/State: Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Greater London, and Kent Cities: Oxford, London, Reading, Windsor