Information About Goring, The Thames
Previous stop: Moulsford
Alternative Location: 
Things to do in Goring
Back to topWhy do we recommend stopping here?
This is a pretty village and boating centre set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In prehistoric times this was the site of an important ford across the river, linking the Icknield Way and the Ridgeway. Goring is often considered a ‘twin’ with nearby Streatley because they are linked by a river bridge and in the early 19th century, Streatley was the larger and more important village because it was on the turnpike road to Reading.
What is there to see?
The Norman Church at Goring has a bell dating from 1290, one of the oldest in England.
Is this place famous for anything?
A painting of Goring Mill and Church is one of a group of unfinished scenes of landscapes painted in 1805, by Turner. The original can be seen as part of the permanent collection at Tate Britain, Millbank, London.
Do any famous people live here?
At Cleeve lock, the river island adjoining the weir walkway is apparently owned by Pete Townshend of the famous group, The Who
Insider Information
When Goring Lock was rebuilt by the Thames Conservancy in 1921 it had a pair of middle gates to save water and enable river craft to travel faster through the lock. The middle gates were later removed but you can still see the recesses where the gates were installed. Cleeve Lock, just upstream of Goring has the smallest drop of any lock on the Thames at just 0.69 of a metre
Is there a tourist office?
The information office is located in the community centre in Station Road. The 'Goring Gap News', published monthly, is another good source of information and is available to purchase in local newsagents.
Is there a golf course here or nearby?
Goring & Streatley Golf Club, Rectory Road, Streatley-On-Thames, Berkshire, RG8 9QA Tel: 01491 873 229
Eating and Drinking in Goring
Back to topBest places to drink an aperitif?
The 'Miller of Mansfield', Goring High Street
Atmosphere: Traditional real ales - also bar food.
Budget restaurant
The Miller of Mansfield
Address: High Street, Goring on Thames RG8 9AW
Atmosphere: a Grade II listed coaching inn in the heart of Goring-on-Thames with a good selection of bar meals. This pub/hotel has recently been refurbished and features open, wood-burning fireplaces comfy antique club chairs and a newly constructed bar made out of 400 year old oak panelling.
Cuisine: Good quality pub meals in a variety of styles from around the world. 3 course table de hote menu @£17 + a la carte and very good value bar menu.
Contact Details: Tel:+ 44 (0)1491 872 829
Moderately priced restaurant
The Swan
Atmosphere: Award winning pub/restaurant, offering modern european cuisine plus their very popular Sunday lunches.
Contact Details: Tel: +44 (0) 1491 878800 www.swanatstreatley.co.uk
Upmarket restaurant
The Leatherne Bottel, Goring on Thames
Address: Goring on Thames, RG8 0HS
Atmosphere: Regular award winner, this restaurant offers fine food in a beautiful setting. 3 course set menu from £24 per head + a la carte. Sunday lunch from £28.50 per head
Contact Details: Tel:+44 (0)1491 872667
Shopping in Goring
Back to topSupermarket
Westholme Stores (Convenience Store)
24-26 Wallingford Rd, Goring
Supermarket
Somerfield
6-7 The Square, Pangbourne (5 miles further along the river)
What other shops are there??
A couple of small shops but nothing of any note
Practicalities at Goring
Back to topMooring
Just below the lock there is a long stretch of mooring which stretches all the way to the bend, and includes a grassed area as well as all the concrete tow path. There is also mooring space just above the railway bridge, on the same side as Gatehampton Farm Shop and the caravan site.
Can I get water here?
Water is available at Goring Lock and Cleeve Lock
Are there any public waste bins here?
Refuse disposal facilities available by Goring Bridge
Is there a bank?
Lloyds TSB Bank, High St, Goring, RG8 9AT
Is there an ATM?
Yes
Is there a post office?
at McColls, High Street, Goring
Is there a doctor?
Red Cross Road Surgery, Red Cross Road. Tel: 01491 872372
Is there a dentist?
Dr Helen Green, The Boat House, High St, Goring. Tel: 01491 872394
Is there a pharmacy?
Lloyds Pharmacy, High St, Goring, Reading, Berkshire, RG8 9AT
Is there a taxi company here?
M&S Car Hire, Tel: 01491 873253, Apple Cars, Tel: 01491 826161
