".....then comes Sunbury Weir with the river surging over it, and creating the pleasing variety of sound which falling water always makes. Be cautious in high-water times to keep near the towing path, as the draught of water is very strong, and has caused more than one accident. "

Henry Taunt 1885

Just below Shepperton Lock and past the ferry (now run by boat chandlers Nauticalia) is D'Oyly Carte Island, former home of the Gilbert and Sullivan producer, who also built the Savoy Hotel in London. He decided in 1896 to convert the island into a rural retreat for his clients, only to be thwarted by local magiustrates, who refused to grant him an alcohol licence.

Graham Diprose 2007

See Taunt's image on its original map.

The text above are sample extracts from the book; entries for each location are more extensive.

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