Penton Hook Lock on the River Thames

In the 1700s the Thames at Penton Hook swung suddenly south in a short loop, the river course almost completing a full circle before continuing its way downstream.

In those days, there was no lock here, which meant that when the river flowed fast, such as during a flood, the water rushed against the outside of the first bend in the river and burst its banks. The powerful currents frequently broke across the 'neck' of the loop, causing many problems for boaters and local residents alike.

Penton Hook Lock was opened in 1815. After the lock was built the farmer retained his right to graze cattle on the Hook, so he drove them across the gates, or they had to swim across the river.

The balance beams on the gates were removed during the 1909 rebuild, as they were too heavy for the new gates. The lock was only out of use for six weeks during this work.

In prehistoric times there was a ford at nearby Laleham, used possibly by the residents of Laleham Abbey, which owned a mill on the Thames here in the 14th century. The ford fell into disuse and a ferry took its place. You can still see the remains of the road and path, which led down to the river on both banks.

Did you know?

A few yards upstream is the minuscule Truss's Island, named after a former Clerk of Works with the City Commissioners of the River Thames.

Contact details

Telephone: +44 (0)1784 452657
Postcode: TW18 2JA

Find out more about the Penton Hook Lock facilities.