Clare Balding heads to the waterways of the River Thames, which stretches over 200 miles from Gloucestershire to Essex. She explores the freshwater Thames, from its humble beginning and on as it meanders through beautiful countryside teeming with wildlife, grand estates and inspiring landscapes. Clare also discovers the 'dreaming spires' of Oxford, and landscapes that inspired Kenneth Grahame's Wind in the Willows.

Clare visits Bolton Abbey, Harewood House, and Wetherby for a serenade from a brass band.

Clare Balding takes in Tintern Abbey, Symonds Yat, Hay-on-Wye, and nature en route.

From Newcastle, Clare travels to beautiful villages, Roman ruins and riverside retreats.