Kew Bridge Loop (Medium)
8 km·intermediate·medium route·Loop
Upstream through Isleworth and Syon Reach to Kew Bridge. The river makes a big westward bend through Isleworth before turning east to Kew. Pass Isleworth Ait, Syon House, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Tidal strategy: Best paddled on the flood tide (upstream, towards the turn point), turning at high water slack, then riding the ebb back.
Exit Points Along This Route
Richmond Slipway(slipway)
0 kmPublic slipway at Ducks Walk. Good landing.
Isleworth Draw Dock(dock)
1.8 kmHistoric draw dock on north bank at Isleworth. Steps.
Kew Pier Steps(steps)
4 kmSteps near Kew Pier on south bank.
Hazards on This Route
Richmond Lock SillCAUTION
Submerged sill when lock gates open at half tide. Turbulence possible.
Isleworth Ait ShallowsCAUTION
Shallow water on south side of the island at low water. Stick to the main channel.
Kew Railway Bridge PiersCAUTION
Narrow arches. Pass through centre arch. Current acceleration on spring ebbs.