River Thames

The River Thames is a major river in southern England. A river is a natural flow of water that moves across land toward the sea. The Thames travels from its source in the Cotswold Hills to the North Sea. A source is the place where a river begins. The river is well known because it flows through London, the capital city of the United Kingdom.

People have lived along the River Thames for thousands of years. Early groups built simple homes near its banks. A bank is the land on the side of a river. The river provided fresh water for drinking, washing, and farming. Farming is the growing of crops and raising of animals. It also offered fish for food and a route for travel. A route is a path used to move from one place to another.

Over time, the Thames became important for trade. Trade is the buying and selling of goods. Boats carried goods such as grain, cloth, and tools along the river. As towns grew, bridges were built across the Thames. A bridge is a structure that allows people and vehicles to cross over water. Some famous bridges in London include Tower Bridge and London Bridge. These bridges helped connect different parts of the city and made travel easier.

The Thames also played a role in protecting settlements. A settlement is a place where people build homes and live together. During the Roman period, a large settlement grew where London stands today. Because the river allowed ships to travel inland, it became a center for trade and leadership. Later, kings and queens built important buildings, including palaces, along the river.

The river supports many forms of wildlife. Wildlife means animals and plants that live in a place naturally. Birds, fish, and water plants depend on the river for food and shelter. In some areas, special protections help keep the water cleaner and safer for animals. The Thames is also used for recreation. Recreation is activity done for enjoyment, such as boating, walking, or rowing.

Today, the River Thames remains an important part of daily life in southern England. Boats of many types travel along it, from small rowing boats to large passenger boats. Parks and paths follow the river, giving people a place to walk, cycle, and enjoy the outdoors. Because the Thames flows through many towns before reaching the sea, it continues to shape the history, culture, and environment of the region.