suki ng Whittington Tea Barge is very popular among people in Reading, and after joining their monthly 2-hour river cruise I can see why it has such a good reputation. The whole experience felt very special. The weather was warm and not windy, which made it perfect for cruising along the River Thames. With only 12 people on board, it was calm, friendly, and never crowded — a very personal experience compared to bigger boat trips.
At the time of boarding, I was served the tea set. The handmade scones were fresh and delicious, and the service was good and welcoming throughout. The tea set also included sandwiches, desserts, and a choice of coffee or tea — all well prepared, nicely presented, and filling. It felt like the perfect balance between a traditional English tea and a relaxed river journey.
Afterwards, I went up to the top deck. If the weather is good, I highly recommend sitting outside — the views of the River Thames are absolutely amazing and it is such a peaceful way to spend the afternoon. The whole cruise was very well organised, with enough time to enjoy both the food and the scenery without feeling rushed.
For future visitors, it’s worth knowing that the river cruise only runs once a month and you need to reserve in advance as spaces are limited. On normal weekends, the barge stays in its usual spot on the river and serves a special weekend menu, so you can still enjoy eating on the boat even if there is no cruise that day.
Overall, this was a wonderful and memorable experience — great food, friendly service, and beautiful river views. A lovely way to spend a couple of hours by the water in Reading. Highly recommended!
