Cookham to Marlow via the Thames Path
Cookham, Berkshire
The Cookham to Marlow section of the Thames Path is one of the finest linear walks in Berkshire - ancient meadow, wooded bluffs, and a continuous ribbon of river that keeps dogs interested for the whole route. The walk begins on Cookham Moor and threads out onto Cock Marsh, a National Trust SSSI where cattle graze from April through to November; keep your dog on a lead or under very close control when livestock are present, and stick to the paths through the wetland margins to protect the ground-nesting birds. Beyond Winter Hill the river bends south toward Bourne End, and it is here that you reach the Bounty - a pub accessible only on foot or by boat, with no road to it at all, which gives the whole stretch a satisfyingly remote feel despite being so close to the commuter belt.
The path into Marlow runs through quieter riverside meadow where the walking feels more relaxed once you are clear of the NT commons. Underfoot it is a mix of compacted path, grass, and some tarmac as you approach the town - manageable year-round, though the meadow sections hold mud from October through to March. The Thames itself offers numerous informal access points for dogs who want a paddle, and the river along this stretch runs clean and non-tidal.
Seasonal notes: April to November - cattle graze on Cock Marsh (NT). Dogs must be on leads or under very close control when livestock present. March to July - ground-nesting birds in SSSI wetland sections. Keep to paths.
Safety note: The Thames Path near Cookham diverts away from the riverbank near Cliveden (private towpath section). This diversion takes walkers briefly onto roads.
Dog waste bins: No bins on the rural Thames Path section between Cookham and Marlow. Carry waste bags - bins available in Cookham village and Marlow town.
Dog-friendly stops: The Bounty (Cockmarsh, near Bourne End) - accessible only on foot or by boat. Dogs welcome inside on lead. Doggy menu, water bowls, dog chews. Riverside seating. The White Oak (Cookham, SL6 9QE) - dogs welcome in bar. Free treats.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs go off-lead on Cock Marsh?
Dogs must be kept on a short lead or under very close control on the National Trust commons at Cock Marsh and Cookham Moor. Cattle graze from approximately April to November, and the area is a SSSI with ground-nesting birds from March to July.
How do I get back from Marlow to Cookham?
You can walk back the same route along the Thames Path, or take the train from Marlow station to Maidenhead (GWR, approximately 20 minutes) and connect to the Elizabeth line. Check the timetable at gwr.com before your visit.
Can dogs swim in the Thames on this walk?
Yes. This section of the Thames is above Teddington Lock and non-tidal. There are multiple informal grassy bank access points where dogs can paddle safely. Avoid letting dogs drink from standing sections of the river.
Plan this walk with live weather and dog-safe route info