22 July 2026

Barrus is proud to support one of Britain’s oldest and most iconic traditions by providing marine engines for the annual Swan Upping on the River Thames.

Swan Upping is the historic annual census of the mute swan population on the River Thames. Dating back to the 12th century, the five-day event sees teams from the King’s Swan Marker, alongside representatives from the Vintners’ Company and Dyers’ Company, travel by boat from Sunbury Lock in Middlesex to Abingdon Bridge in Oxfordshire to count, check the health of, and record young swans, known as cygnets.

As a long-established UK company founded in 1917 and based in Bicester, Oxfordshire, Barrus Ltd has almost 110 years’ experience operating across the marine, outdoor, industrial and customer support sectors. Its heritage in marine power and its role as the UK’s leading importer and distributor of marine engines, engine-powered equipment, garden tools, and accessories make its support for Swan Upping a natural fit with the event’s reliance on dependable boat engines and equipment.

Reliable marine power is essential to ensuring the Swan Upping boats can safely navigate this significant stretch of the River Thames throughout the event. By supplying marine outboard engines, Barrus is helping the Swan Upping teams carry out their survey safely and efficiently. At the same time, they gather valuable information to support the ongoing protection of the mute swan population.

The Mercury engines supplied by Barrus, comprising two 25hp engines and one 15hp engine, provide dependable propulsion for the vessels involved in the event, enabling the teams to focus on their vital role in monitoring and caring for the swan population.

Supporting Swan Upping reflects Barrus’ long-standing commitment to British boating heritage and to the organisations working to protect and preserve the River Thames and its wildlife. Through its network of authorised dealers and partnerships with leading global brands, Barrus continues to support customers with high-quality products, technical expertise and after-sales service across its markets.

Swan Upping is a remarkable combination of British heritage and wildlife conservation. We are proud to support the event by providing outboard engines, to ensure the teams can carry out their important work safely and reliably. It is a privilege to contribute to such a unique Thames tradition and support the people dedicated to protecting its wildlife. Barrus is proud to play a small but important role in helping preserve this historic event, ensuring Swan Upping can continue for generations to come.

Graham Knox CEO at Barrus