London has an exclusive private island — now, it’s opening to the public

When you think of the River Thames, you might conjure up images of the South Bank, Uber Boats whipping along the waves, and pebble beaches.

But there’s one little-known part of London’s river that’s still relatively hidden, and that’s Eel Pie Island.

Even the most hardcore of Londoners might never have heard of it, and for good reason: it’s completely private.

It first got its unique name as one particularly iconic dish, the eel pie, was dished out here. It was served during the 18th and 19th centuries, and because it was fairly cheap, it became an accessible, low-cost food.

Before the humble eel pie came about, though, the 8.9-acre spot was simply known as the Twickenham Ait, which is an old word for island.

If you’ve ever been curious to see what lies beyond its waters, this weekend and next, this exclusive isle will be opening its doors to us regular folk. Here’s everything you need to know.

How to visit Eel Pie Island this weekend

While the rest of the year sees the elusive Eel Pie Island shrouded in mystery, on July 4, July 5, July 11, and July 12, things will be different.

You won’t need to be invited in by one of the island’s 120-strong population. Instead, all you’ll need to do is grab your free ticket and head on across the River Thames, over the fittingly named Eel Pie Bridge.

You’ll be allotted two hours as part of the Eel Pie Island Artists event, which is mostly intended for non-Eel Piers to connect with the local art scene, chatting to local creators and perusing work.

On each day, the slots run across the following times:

• 11am-1pm
• 1pm-3pm
• 3pm-5pm.

The history of Eel Pie Island

Still can’t get this unique London spot off your mind? We’ve got a few more fun facts for you. Back in the 1960s, the island was home to a major music hall in the form of the Eel Pie Island Hotel.

This wasn’t any old venue, either: from 1956 onwards, the hotel hosted more than 900 gigs, including performances from the likes of the Rolling Stones, who enjoyed a five-month residency there.

With a huge dancefloor and a sizeable bar, it became the place to be for young people who not only wanted to have a boogie but also wanted to see change.

And so, from then onwards, Eel Pie Island became the centre of a hippie movement, as after it shut down in 1969, it became home to the UK’s largest commune. Sadly, it burnt down in 1971, but to this day, many will attest to the influence this tiny gem had on London during the 1960s.

Eel Pie Island isn’t the only private spot across London.

At the tail end of last year, Hallsmead Ait, a charming triangular island nestled in one of the Thames’ most serene spots by Shiplake Lock, went up for sale. Except, being up for auction, it only fetched £99,470.

Spanning a modest 4.75 acres of woodland, Hallsmead Ait isn’t just a pretty patch of green; it comes with its own landing pontoon.

Situated near Henley-on-Thames, the island has long been admired by passers-by and boaters alike for its unspoilt charm.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing [email protected]

MORE: Thousands line streets for joyous London Pride Parade 2026

MORE: Egyptian fans clash with police in London after World Cup victory

MORE: The London ‘mega walks’ that’ll give you shopping discounts for your steps