Royal Swan Upping
Type:Ceremony
Windsor, Berkshire
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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.
Swan Upping will begin on Monday 13th July 2026; the observation points for the annual census and health check of swans and cygnets on the River Thames are as follows:
Monday 13th July 2026
Sunbury 09.00 - Departure point
Shepperton Lock 10.15
Penton Hook Lock 12.30
Romney Lock 17.30
Tuesday 14th July 2026
Eton Bridge 08.30 - Departure point
Boveney Lock 09.15
Boulters Lock 12.30
Cookham Bridge 13.30
Marlow Lock 17.30
Wednesday 15th July 2026
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 16th July 2026
Sonning-on-Thames
(09.00 - Departure point)
Caversham Lock 10.15
Mapledurham Lock 12.30
Goring Lock 17.00
Moulsford 18.00
Friday 17th July 2026
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
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Free admission | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
| 2026 Royal Swan Upping (13 July 2026 - 17 July 2026) |
|---|
* Swan upping takes place in the third week of July
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