Bell Weir Lock on the River Thames

This lock is named after its very first lock keeper, Charles Bell, who was employed by the Thames Navigation Commissioners in 1917.

He earned a good wage of £4 per month, but for this he had to provide his own residence. He already owned a house close by, so he had no problems. Charles fought in the first World War but sadly, he didn't return. His wife was believed to have taken over the job.

Despite its proximity to Heathrow Airport, Bell Weir attracts a good selection of wildlife. Regularly seen are woodpeckers, parakeets, kingfishers, sparrowhawks and kestrels, plus the occasional buzzard. On the ground are foxes, badgers and muntjac deer.

Several years ago a rare bald eagle was sighted here. At the same time an Irish landowner had lost one and discovered it was the same bird! He travelled to Bell Weir, caught the bird and took it home to Ireland.

The Runnymede On Thames is located on the riverbank alongside Bell Weir Lock. Perfect for a short break or for relaxed dining. Aptly named its Lock Bar & Kitchen offer an informal atmosphere and great food that can be enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the weir. Find out more about Bell Weir Lock and the hotel.

French Brothers calls at Sunbury Lock with its Runnymede to Hampton Court Service during the summer months (please check availability).

Did you know?

The lock keeper once found a bunch of papers in a bag of rubbish bobbing in the river by the lock. Retrieving them, the papers turned out to be a full set of floor plans for the Bank of England. How they got there was a mystery. Police collected them very soon after!

Contact details

Telephone: +44 (0)3708 506 506
Postcode: TW20 0AA

Find out more about the Bell Weir Lock facilities.