Shepperton Lock on the River Thames

In the early 1800s it was becoming obvious that there was a definite need to improve the Thames navigation at Shepperton. River craft were stuck in the shallows, sometimes for days at a time. There were also worries about flooding, especially after heavy rains. So, some form of lock was required, and in 1813 the City of London Corporation built a timber pound lock here.

The wooden lock lasted for 86 years, when a new stone lock was built alongside the original. Today the lock is very similar to that built in 1899, although the oak beams have been removed and hydraulic operation installed.

Did you know?

The famous D'oyly Carte Island once housed the composers Gilbert and Sullivan. It is said that the song Willow Tit Willow from The Mikado was written here.

Contact details

Telephone: +44 (0)1932 221840
Postcode: TW17 9LJ

Find out more about the Shepperton Lock facilities.