IT’S not the usual type of boat you see sailing down the Thames. In fact we got a few strange looks while enjoying our relaxing trip down the river on a sunny summer’s afternoon.

It took me a while to work out why everyone we passed on the riverbank did a double take, and then I was reminded that we were actually sailing past in a hot tub.

Yes, that’s right, a hot tub – or HotTug as they are known.

And just to make it a little more conspicuous, just in case you hadn’t noticed, it is bright yellow with a rubber duck attached to the front.

So it was no wonder it caught the eye of passers-by and fellow sailors.

It was like being a celebrity for an hour with everybody we passed pointing and waving and even shouting things to us.

This is the only HotTug in the UK and it is the property of The Runnymede-on-Thames Hotel in Egham.

Powered by a small electric engine, with a tub of water heated by a wood-burning stove to a blissful 38 degrees, the canaryyellow craft is both novel and fun.

Once booked in and the water is at its correct temperature the staff help you into the HotTug and give you a quick lesson in how it works.

It’s really pretty simple and in next to no time we were heading down the river just the two of us, and after sussing out the steering we were soon able to sit back, relax and enjoy the trip.

The hotel makes the most of its riverside location and not only do the restaurant and conference rooms open out to provide river views but the hotel also offers boat hire too, for those not wanting to get wet!

It is perfect for families too.

Nearby attractions Legoland, Chessington and Thorpe Park are a big draw but children can also feed the ducks on the river, enjoy a splash in the indoor or outdoor swimming pools and feast on the innovative ducklings dinners.

The leftbank restaurant overlooking the river offers buffet food throughout the day with one of the best breakfasts I’ve seen.

With a choice of everything from a full English with all the trimmings, to smoked salmon, fresh fruit, pastries and a variety of continental options.

If only we hadn’t eaten so much the previous night in the lock bar and kitchen restaurant we would have really made the most of the lovely food on offer.

Situated very close to Heathrow this would make a great stop off before or after a holiday and a trip in the HotTug is the perfect way to unwind in style.

  • Prices for weekend stays at the Runnymede-on-Thames start from £169 per room per night based on two sharing a standard double on a B&B basis.
  • Website: therunnymede.co.uk
    Tel: 01784 220600
    Email: info@runnymede hotel.com
    The HotTug is available for use by a maximum of six guests* of the Runnymede-on-Thames hotel as a selfdrive boat, a self-drive hot tub, or as a floating hot tub on the hotel’s mooring.
    HotTug is priced at £90 for an hour on weekdays, and £120 an hour at weekends, subject to availability.
    For hire by adults and children aged 12 years and above accompanied by adults.
    A map, bottles of water and waterproof bags for mobile phones are provided.
    Each hire of the HotTug is restricted to one hour.
    *For adults and children aged 12 years and above accompanied by adults