Shiplake Lock
Telephone: 0118 940 3350
Postcode: RG9 3NA
Way back in the 1400s, a flash lock operated here at Shiplake, probably in conjunction with a mill. It was first built as a pound lock in 1773 by the Thames Navigation Commissioners. It was made of fir wood with grassy banks. This didn't last long and it was rebuilt in oak 14 years on and again in masonry nearly 100 years later in 1874.
Lock keeper
Shiplake Lock is operated by Geoff Horsnell, a river enthusiast for many years. Geoff worked in the City of London for 30 years before turning his hand to lock keeping. He says of his lock, 'It's magical here. The river sustains an amazing amount of wildlife. I also enjoy the daily banter with boaters passing through the lock.'
An interesting fact
The village of Lower Shiplake was the childhood home of the author George Orwell who was brought up in a house called Roselawn.
Location and facilities
For a map and a list of all the facilities at the lock visit...
> Location and facilities at Shiplake Lock