Pinkhill Lock on the River Thames

The manual beam pound lock at Pinkhill was built in 1791, and it looks today just as it did in the 18th century, when merchants' barges were a common sight, travelling to and from London. The arrival of the railways caused a decline in river traffic. These days, pleasure boats are the main craft to use this part of the River Thames.

On the weir stream used to be a paddle and rymer weir but this was demolished in 1932 to make way for a Buck weir (using gates that rise vertically on upright runners both sides), which lasted until the new electrically 0perated radial weir was installed in 1998.

Did you know?

In 1935, Amy Johnson, the legendary pilot, flew a biplane from here, signing autographs for fans. She charged half a crown (two shillings and sixpence in old money) a time!

What the Independent says in its article '50 best sites under canvas'

For anyone dreaming of a Swallows and Amazons experience, this campsite comes pretty close. Its five pitches (plus loo and shower) are set within a small copse on an island on the Thames. To get there, you'll have to walk, cycle or paddle in.
Eynsham, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX29 4JH (01865 881452). Pitches from £10.50 per night for two
PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO VEHICULAR ACCESS

FACILITIES

pitches
5 (0 hard standing). No electric hook-ups.

on site
Loos: 1 Unisex. Showers: 1 Unisex (free).Other facilities: No. Stuff for children: No.Recycling: No. Dogs: On leads. Fires: Open fires; BBQs off grass. Other: The site is for walkers, cyclists and rowers/paddlers only. Campers must arrive during the lock-keeper’s duty hours: April (9am–5pm), May (till 6:30pm), June to August (till 7pm), September (till 6pm).

Currently closed until further notice.

Contact details

Telephone: +44 (0)3708 506 506
Postcode: OX29 4JH

Find out more about the Pinkhill Lock facilities.

Image credit: http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1643398