Museums on the Thames
River and Rowing Museum, Oxfordshire
Situated in the town of Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire, the museum beautifully depicts aspects of the water sports practiced on the Thames. It encompasses three major galleries based on separate themes : the sport of rowing, Henley-on-Thames and the non-tidal section of the river. The latter is the most sizeable and comprehensive and offers visitors a chance to become acquainted with the sceneries, wildlife and navigation of the Thames. It also comprises a section on art inspired by the river, mainly paintings and literature. They also learn facts about the bridges, artificial locks and other developments of the river, as well as their management and importance.
Design Museum, London
This innovative museum is located in the central area of the city and is representative for modern designing in a range of fields, from advertising to architecture and fashion. Opened in 1989, it is said to have pioneered such exhibitions in Europe, and has since received critical acclaim. Everything from graphic design to shoes and video games has been approached, in a diverse, modern display combining talent, creativity and the latest technology. Its position by the Thames gives it further appeal in terms of tourism. Also, the first floor comprises an eating venue which offers picturesque views of the river and the Tower Bridge, located nearby.
Kew Bridge Steam Museum
Built by the Thames, near the Kew Bridge in West London, in Brentford, the museum exhibits the evolution of steam engines through the demonstration of various water pumping engines at work, plus a variety of other interesting features which guarantee an interesting and educative experience. In fact, visitors get the chance to ride on London’s last and only steam railway on certain Sundays. Moreover, there is ample documentation on London’s water supply and its long evolution since the basic system introduced by the Roman occupation, up to present day.