The river thames is one of the main rowing areas in england, with activity taking place on the tideway and on the 45 separate lock reaches on the non-tidal section. the river hosts two major rowing events, the boat race and henley royal regatta, and many other regattas and long distance events take place on the river.. Family friendly museum on the river thames in henley, oxfordshire. river, rowing and henley galleries. permanent art gallery of john piper’s works. wind in the willows 3d exhibition is a family favourite! school holiday activities including family fun days and workshops. caf