Clifton Lock on the River Thames

Clifton Lock - or Clifton Hampden Lock as it's also known - was first talked about way back in 1793, and discussions continued in 1811. But it wasn't until 1822 that this lock was constructed.

Originally, the River Thames flowed in a loop towards Long Wittenham village but it was decided to dig a new, more direct, cut to by-pass the longer route. So today's lock, a hydraulic pound type operated electrically, looks very much like it did when it was built nearly 200 years ago, but without the heavy oak beams used to operate the lock manually.

Did you know?

Legend has it that St Michael & All Angels Church at Clifton Hampden was originally built on an ancient volcano blow-hole.

Contact details

Telephone: +44 (0)1865 407821
Postcode: OX14 3EH

Find out more about the Clifton Lock facilities.