The spectacle of the tradition of Swan Upping travels through Henley-on-Thames on Wednesday 17th July 2024 reaching Henley Bridge at 1.15pm.

The flotilla’s timings after setting off from Marlow Bridge at 09:00 are as follows:

• Marlow Bridge – Departure point 09:00
• Hurley Lock – 10:30
• Hambleden Lock – 12:00
• Henley Town – 13:15
• Marsh Lock – 15:30
• Shiplake Lock – 17:00
• Sonning Bridge – 18:00

Swan Upping is the annual census of the swan population on a particular stretch of the River Thames, and has changed from a mostly ceremonial event to an important element of wildlife conservation.

A flotilla of traditional Thames rowing skiffs, manned by Swan Uppers in scarlet rowing shirts and headed by The Kings’ Swan Marker, David Barber, wearing a hat with a white swan’s feather, row their way steadily up the Thames. “All up! they cry as a family of swans and cygnets is spotted, and the Swan Uppers carefully position their boats around the swans, lift them from the water and check their health. The Swan Marker’s iconic five-day journey upriver has been an annual ceremony for hundreds of years, and today it has two clear goals, conservation and education.

Swan Upping plays an important role in the conservation of the mute swan and involves the King’s Swan Warden collecting data, assessing the health of young cygnets and examining them for any injuries. Cygnets are extremely vulnerable at this early stage in their development and Swan Upping affords an opportunity to help both adults and cygnets that might otherwise go untreated.

The Royal Swan Uppers, who wear the scarlet uniform of His Majesty The King, travel in traditional rowing skiffs together with Swan Uppers from the Vintners’ and Dyers’ livery companies. Many schools are invited to meet the Swan Uppers on their journey up river. The children involved may have the opportunity to view cygnets at close quarters and ask questions about swans, the boats used and The King’s ownership of mute swans. The participation of school children is a positive element of Swan Upping and their enthusiasm for wildlife is always to be encouraged.