Clifton Lock
Telephone: 01865 407821
Postcode: OX14 3EH
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 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.
Lock keeper
The attractive Lock House, built in 1929, is home to Lock Keeper Larry Bracewell and Bonnie, the 'Towpath Terrier'. They moved to the lock in 2006. Larry began his lock career as a relief keeper at Culham, Clifton, and Day's locks before becoming resident at Clifton.
Previously, Larry was the National Rivers Association (NRA) Patrol Officer for the Lower Thames. Before that, Larry had a 26-year career as a cavalry soldier. He has been involved with boats all his life, particularly offshore sailing, and is a RYA yachtsman.
An interesting fact
Legend has it that St Michael & All Angels Church at Clifton Hampden was originally built on an ancient volcano blow-hole.
Location and facilities
For a map and a list of all the facilities at the lock visit...
> Location and facilities at Clifton Lock