Henley has anything but a small town mentality. Known and lauded the world over for its Royal Regatta, it is inundated each summer by international oarsmen and visitors, eager to be a part of one of the great sporting and social events.

The new River and Rowing Museum in its award-winning building is proving to be a magnet for those who want to learn about the history of rowing, the mighty Thames and, of course, the town. Who can forget that marvellous day in November 1998 when Her Majesty the Queen performed the official opening honours.

For more than 150 years Henley has been synonymous with the sport of rowing and for five days of the year it becomes the focus of world attention during the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta.

And throughout the year, those out for a stroll along the towpath can enjoy watching crews in training from both local clubs and the world famous Leander Club which has its headquarters just downstream of the bridge.

Nor does the town's sporting interest stop there. Rugby, football and cricket thrive. The Henley Hawks is one of the top 28 rugby clubs in the country.

And there is so much else to do here, if you just take the time to look for it. Obviously, there is the river; just take a trip downstream, on the water or on the towpath, towards Hambleden Lock, and ahead of you is one of the finest, serene views in England.

For ramblers, the surrounding hills and woodland are criss-crossed with footpaths. With Henley as the hub, a circular walk is an attractive pastime, and one to end with a welcome cup of tea or coffee in one of the town’s many teashops or cafes.

Or why not wander around some of Henley’s ancient streets, past the historic Henley Brewery, the home of Brakspear’s ales? Or combine the old and new by visiting the quaint Kenton Theatre, said to be the fourth oldest in the country, then take in the latest movie at our Regal Cinema. The townsfolk campaigned for ten years for it to be built after the old one was pulled down.

The town has its own symphony orchestra and a choral society. Numerous art galleries show constantly-changing exhibitions. The Henley Festival of Music and Arts in July is an important date in the town's calendar.

As for the shops, there is something for everybody and to suit all pockets - fashion boutiques, some selling clothes by top designers, two premier supermarkets, old-fashioned butcher shops, privately-run bakeries and tea rooms with delicious home-made cakes. One of our traditional butchers, Gabriel Machin, even smokes salmon in his own smokehouse.

Whatever you want, Henley will have it in abundance. Good food in fine restaurants, riverside walks, sports facilities. We even have a nearby stately home, Stonor Park, which belongs to Lord Camoys, the Lord Chamberlain to Her Majesty the Queen.

People can feel pampered when they visit Henley.