Old Map of the River Thames

Carington Bowles’s New Map of the River Thames, originally produced in the 18th century, affords a stunning rendition of the most important and historically significant river in England. The old map covers the full course of the River Thames, stretching from its source in Gloucestershire near Torleton all the way to its mouth at the North Sea. This map was crafted by Bowles, a well known cartographer, and engraved by John Ellis. It was an invaluable resource for river navigation and a vital reference for travellers, merchants, and boatmen during the period. The map meticulously traces the entire course of the river through the towns including Lechlade, Oxford, Abingdon, Wallingford, Reading, Henley, Maidenhead, Windsor, and the City of London, before finally flowing into the sea. Most notable are its depictions of various geographical landmarks and features along the river’s length. These include numerous locks, wears, and bridges along with their respective tolls, which were payable at each. Tolls and Distances: Bowles’s map also features a table of all the locks, wears, and bridges. This was particularly useful for those using the river for transport, as it allowed them to calculate both the distances and costs associated with traveling along the river. Distances between landmarks were measured by water, offering an accurate and accessible means of planning trips. In addition to the general river features, Bowles’s old River Thames map includes important navigational data such as sandbars, shoals, and soundings in the estuary. This was essential for understanding the river’s flow and the potential hazards that could be encountered, especially in the tidal sections closer to the river’s mouth. Such details would have been indispensable for the safe navigation of ships and boats, particularly as the river widened toward its entrance into the sea.