Royal Swan Upping

About

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 Queen'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 Queen'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.

This year a reduced Swan Upping departing from Eton and finishing at Moulsford will commence provided there are no Government restrictions in place in respect of Covid-19.

Where to watch the Swan Upping ceremony

Please note, all times given are approximate:

Tuesday 20th July 2021
Eton Bridge 08.30 - Departure point
Boveney Lock 09.15
Boulters Lock 12.30
Cookham Bridge 13.15
Marlow Lock 17.30

Wednesday 21st July 2021
Marlow Bridge 09.00 - Departure point
Hurley Lock 10.30
Hambleden Lock 12.15
Henley Bridge 13.00
Marsh Lock 15.15
Shiplake Lock 17.00
Sonning Bridge 18.00

Thursday 22nd July 2021
Sonning-on-Thames 08.45 - Departure point
Caversham Lock 10.15
Mapledurham Lock 12.30
Goring Lock 16.15
Moulsford 17.15