When summer arrives in the Thames Valley, the days stretch longer, the pace slows, and life spills outdoors. There’s no better way to enjoy it than with a riverside picnic or a slow amble to a country pub. If you’re seeking a peaceful, quintessentially English escape, Dorchester-on-Thames offers the perfect starting point – and The White Hart Hotel is ideally placed to make the most of it.
The Thames Valley: Idyllic by Nature
Set against the gentle curves of the River Thames, South Oxfordshire’s landscape invites you to take your time. From open meadows and shaded riverbanks to historic bridges and market towns, the region is perfectly suited to slow travel.
Picnicking along the Thames isn’t just scenic – it’s woven into the area’s identity. Add a bottle of something local, some fresh local produce, and a blanket, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect summer afternoon.
Best Picnic Spots Near Dorchester-on-Thames
Whether you’re walking, cycling or driving, there are plenty of spots within easy reach of The White Hart Hotel for a laid-back lunch under the sun:
1. Dorchester Meadows
Just a short stroll from the hotel, the riverside meadows behind Dorchester Abbey are a local favourite. The open fields, grazing cows and riverside paths create an atmosphere of timeless calm.
2. Days Lock & Little Wittenham
This tranquil spot just across the bridge offers grassy banks and views of Wittenham Clumps. It’s ideal for picnics with a view and a quick paddle in the shallows.
3. Shillingford Bridge
A few miles west, this stretch of the Thames is popular with wild swimmers and walkers. It’s a peaceful place for a riverside picnic away from the crowds.
All of these spots are easily reachable by foot or bike from The White Hart Hotel.
Pairing Your Picnic with a Proper Pub Stop
If a basket isn’t your thing, or you’re ready for a cold pint or glass of wine after your riverside wander, there are several outstanding pubs nearby that combine great food with a relaxed outdoor setting.
- The Chequers at Burcot – Set in a 400-year-old building with a lovely garden
- The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse in Moulsford – Riverside dining with a traditional feel
- The Plough Inn, Long Wittenham – Family-friendly pub with beer garden charm
Back at The White Hart, guests can also enjoy drinks and food in the courtyard on warmer days – ideal if you’d rather stay close to your room after a long afternoon in the sun.
Build Your Own Summer Picnic
Staying at The White Hart makes picnic planning easy. Start your day with a generous breakfast, then collect snacks and drinks from nearby farm shops or cafés. Alternatively, ask reception for recommendations or help putting together a picnic – the team is happy to assist.
Look out for:
- Oxfordshire cheeses
- Local sourdough and chutneys
- Strawberries, raspberries and orchard fruit
- English sparkling wine or craft beer from nearby breweries
With shaded spots along the river and plenty of open green space, you won’t be short on options.
A Perfect Base for Lazy Summer Days
The White Hart Hotel offers not only comfortable, character-filled rooms, but the kind of warm hospitality that fits perfectly with a summer escape. After a day by the river or in the pub garden, you’ll return to crisp sheets, a deep bath, and perhaps a nightcap in the bar.
Dorchester-on-Thames is also close to charming market towns like Wallingford and Abingdon, making it easy to extend your summer break with light exploration, local shopping and heritage sightseeing.