Radcot Lock
Telephone: +44 (0)1367 240676
Postcode: SN7 8JT
Click the link below for a map and a list of facilities at the lock.
Location and facilities for Radcot Lock
Radcot Lock began life as a flash lock in the mid-1700s. Back in 1794, the weir was described thus: 'rude railing stretches across the stream from a group of willows on one side, to a bank with two thatched habitations on the other.' Later records show that the land on which the lock is situated was sold to Christchurch College, Oxford.
In 1892, a new lock construction started as its present location on land bought from Oriel College, Oxford for £300. In 1980 the old house suffered from subsidence, so a new bungalow was built in 1986.
Lock Keeper
Kevin Roberts is the present-day resident lockkeeper and he lives in the lock house with his family. Before this, Kevin worked in the motor trade, but gave this up to join the National Rivers Authority in 1992. His father-in-law and wife's uncle were also lockkeepers. Kevin is a keen boater and in his spare time you may see him out on the river in his own boat.
Did you know?
On his way to Faringdon in 1645, Oliver Cromwell is said to have fought a 'skirmish' at Radcot bridge.