[1] It has three main themes represented by major permanent galleries, the non-tidal River Thames, the international sport of rowing and the local town of Henley-on-Thames.

The Museum has rights to use the original images by Shepard, who explored the meadows and willow-fringed river around nearby Pangbourne in search of settings for these illustrations.

The exhibition follows the original storyline, using theatrical lighting and sound techniques to take visitors on a journey through the world of The Wind in the Willows.

The gallery offers visitors a range of perspectives, looking at the river as an inspiration for the arts, as a natural habitat for wildlife and as both a source of pleasure and a means of trade.

In a mix of music, art, photography, original objects, boats and oral testimony the gallery takes the visitor on a journey from the source at Kemble to the Thames Barrier.

Inside the gallery, the story of international rowing is presented, allowing the visitor to experience the sport and understand what it is like to compete on the water.

On display are many objects no previously shown in public, film footage showing races, and a range of interactive exhibits of general interest.

Sections include exhibits on the following: The Henley Gallery tells the story of the town of Henley-on-Thames, built by the river.

Henley was established in the 12th century when its location by the river made it convenient as an inland port for shipping timber, grain, and firewood to the rapidly growing city of London.

Boats, stagecoaches, railway engines and motors have in turn brought goods and people to the town for business and pleasure.

Established in 1839, and gaining a royal patron in 1851, the Regatta brings together leading international oarsmen and women and is considered to be part of the English social calendar.