Culham Lock
Telephone: 01235 522061
Postcode: OX14 4NE
Domesday in the 11th century recorded a mill on the Thames at nearby Sutton Courtenay, where the river originally meandered. However, in those days the lock (probably a flash weir) was difficult to negotiate by boat due to the shallow river - and the tolls were said to be the highest on the Thames, making it unpopular with merchants using the river.
Eventually, in 1809, a new deeper Culham Cut - and a new pound lock - were excavated and both were welcomed by all who used them if only because the tolls were not so high.
Lock keeper
The lock keeper here has been resident since 1980. If you also add on the 14 years spent as summer assistant and relief lock keeper, he is the longest-serving lock keeper on the Thames.
An interesting fact
Culham is a 'shrunken village' - that is, it's much smaller today than its original size. It is a mystery why this happened. Suggestions include the Black Death and poor harvests following wet summers in the 14th century.
Location and facilities
For a map and a list of all the facilities at the lock visit...
> Location and facilities at Culham Lock