River Rapids
Catch the River Rapids X40 to Oxford, Wallingford or Reading, and enjoy the terrific trip along the Thames.
Our Go-Anywhere family tickets cost just £20 and allow you to hop on and off anywhere along the route for the entire day! Go-Anywhere tickets are available from your driver, or on our mobile app.
With the River Rapids buses, you can explore the delights that South Oxfordshire has to offer, and below we've included some of the fabulous destinations along the route.
You can also check out the Good Journey website for some amazing car-free days out ideas with the River Rapids.
View the River Rapids timetable and route map.
Here are some ideas on things to do along the River Rapids route:
Destination: Wallingford
A small market town in South Oxfordshire, perhaps best known as a well-used filming location for Midsomer Murders and the preserved ‘Bunk Line’ railway linking Wallingford with the mainline at Cholsey.
Hop off the X40 at Wallingford Market Place for most attractions.
Cholsey & Wallingford Railway
Take a ride in a 1950’s carriage pulled by a Heritage diesel locomotive through beautiful South Oxfordshire countryside.
www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com
Castle & Gardens
Scenic, charming and medieval - the Wallingford castle grounds are the perfect spot for a picnic with family and friends.
Enter for free and climb to the top for great views across the Thames!
Corn Exchange
This charming, volunteer-run entertaining venue offers a great range of drama, art, music and the latest cinema releases in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere
www.cornexchange.org.uk
Agatha Christie
Agatha Christie, the famous crime writer, lived in Wallingford for over 40 years. Enjoy a 5 mile circular walk, taking you places linked to her life.
www.wallingfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/visitors
River Relaxation
Enjoy a meal in a local pub by the river, a picnic in the meadows, a coffee from one of the many local cafes or hire a boat to explore the river and the Oxfordshire countryside.
Walking in Wallingford
Whether it be along the river or around the ruins of the castle, there is plenty to explore on foot.
Wallingford Museum
Open throughout the summer, the museum offers the chance to experience sights and sounds throughout history.
www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk
Midsomer Murders
Fans of Midsomer Murders (often filmed in Wallingford) can walk in the footsteps of the main actors and find out more about iconic filming locations.
www.wallingfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/visitors
Destination: Oxford
The bustling heart of Oxfordshire, woven with universities and colleges and a popular spot for films and television shows. Explore the rich history of our city on foot with the Walking Tours, or enjoy a ride on the frequent open top tour buses which run throughout the year.
Hop off the X40 on Oxford’s High Street for the open top bus, university colleges and meadows or hop off at Westgate for Oxford’s Westgate Shopping Centre or Castle.
Walking in Oxford
Oxford has plenty to explore, from the numerous colleges, to the Botanic Gardens, and the riverside meadows. Why not join one of the City Sightseeing Guided Walking Tours, or even hop on the open-top bus tour?
www.citysightseeingoxford.com
Theatres in Oxford
Oxford theatres offer a great range of live performances. Whether you’re seeking drama, musicals, comedy, lectures or poetry, Oxford has much to offer. There’s something for everyone!
www.oxfordplayhouse.com www.sheldonian.ox.ac.uk
Covered Market
Explore the historic Covered Market just off the High Street with over 60 independent and unique shops.
www.oxford-coveredmarket.co.uk
Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is the world’s first university museum. Since its first building was completed in 1683, it has grown considerably and now boasts some of the world’s finest art and archaeological collections.
www.ashmolean.org
Oxford Castle Unlocked
A fun family destination located close to the city centre. Kids will have a great time on a guided tour of the castle. There are a number of restaurants located in the Oxford Castle Quarter, perfect for lunch or dinner.
www.oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk
Carfax Tower
The Carfax Tower is all that remains of the 13th century St. Martins Church. The Church was the official city church of Oxford from 1122. Upon climbing the 99 steps to the top, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Oxford’s skyline.
www.citysightseeingoxford.com/carfax-tower
Westgate Shopping
Oxford has a lot to offer in terms of shopping, with more than 100 shops inside the Westgate Shopping Centre. X40 services stop right outside!
www.westgateoxford.co.uk
Destination: Reading
The largest town in England, an important commercial centre on the confluence of the River Kennet and Thames. With plenty to see, shop and eat, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Hop off the X40 at Reading Station.
Oracle Shopping Centre
‘Shop ’til you drop’ at the Oracle Shopping Centre, with over 80 stylish shops to choose from!
www.theoracle.com
Reading Museum
The museum, suitable for all ages, is located inside the beautiful Victorian Town Hall in the centre of reading. Visitors get the opportunity to discover Reading the ages and learn about local history.
www.readingmuseum.org.uk
Reading Abbey Quarter
Step inside the Reading Abbey Quarter to learn about its fascinating 900 years of history
Destination: Caversham
Just the other side of the river from Reading, home to meadows and marinas alongside the river.
Walking in Caversham
Caversham has plenty to explore on foot, from the riverside meadows to the independent shops and cafes in the village centre.
Destination: Dorchester
A charming, historic small village which sits at the confluence of the River Thame and River Thames Hop off the X40 at Dorchester Bypass, just a 10 minute walk from the village centre.
Dorchester Abbey
Thought to be one of the earliest Christian sites in Britain, Dorchester Abbey sits atop the site of a 7th century cathedral.
The Abbey also plays host to many concerts and performances throughout the year!
www.dorchester-abbey.org.uk/whats-on
Walking in Dorchester
Enjoy a walk around the nearby Wittenham Clumps, the highest point for miles around, and enjoy fabulous views across the Thames.
Just a 30 minute walk from Dorchester’s charming village centre.