Swan Upping is the annual census of the swan population on certain stretches of the Thames. This historic ceremony dates from the twelfth century when the Crown claimed ownership of all swans, and they were regarded as a delicacy at banquets.
Nowadays the cygnets are weighed and measured to obtain estimates of growth rates and the birds are examined for any sign of injury. More info is at www.royalswan.co.uk
You can still catch them as they depart from Marlow on Wednesday 17th July 2013, noting the schedule below. There should be plenty of swans to inspect in Higginson Park!
- Marlow Bridge 09.00 – Departure point
- Hurley Lock 10.30
- Hambleden Lock 12.00
Here’s our gallery:
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