Royal Swan Upping

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Swan Upping is the annual census of the swan population on stretches of the Thames in the counties of Middlesex, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. This historic ceremony dates from the twelfth century, when the Crown claimed ownership of all mute swans.

The King's Swan Marker and the accompanying Swan Uppers of the Vintners' and Dyers' Livery Companies use six traditional Thames rowing skiffs in their five-day journey upstream to Abingdon.

By tradition, scarlet uniforms are worn by The King's Swan Marker and Swan Uppers, and each boat flies the appropriate flag and pennant.

Swan upping takes place during the third week in July.

Where to watch the Swan Upping ceremony

Swan Upping will begin on Monday 14th July 2025; the observation points for the annual census and health check of swans and cygnets on the River Thames are as follows:

Monday 14th July 2025
Sunbury 09.00 - Departure point
Shepperton Lock 10.15
Penton Hook Lock 12.30
Romney Lock 17.30
 
Tuesday 15th July 2025
Eton Bridge 08.30 - Departure point
Boveney Lock 09.15
Boulters Lock 12.30
Cookham Bridge 13.30
Marlow Lock 17.30
 
Wednesday 16th July 2025
Marlow Bridge 09.00 - Departure point
Hurley Lock 10.30
Hambleden Lock 12.00
Henley Town 13.15
Marsh Lock 15.30
Shiplake Lock 17.00
Sonning Bridge 18.00
 
Thursday 17th July 2025
Sonning-on-Thames
(09.00 - Departure point)
Caversham Lock 10.15
Mapledurham Lock 12.30
Goring Lock 17.00
Moulsford 18.00
 
Friday 18th July 2025
Moulsford 09.00 - Departure point
Benson Lock 10.00
Clifton Hampden Bridge 13.00
Culham Lock 16.15
Abingdon Bridge 17.00

Local schools seeking further information about Swan Upping should contact the Swan Marker’s office on 01628 523030 or email info@royalswan.co.uk