Pharaoh's Island, River island in Thames, Surrey, England
Pharaoh's Island is a residential river island in the Thames near Surrey, home to around 23 houses arranged in close quarters. The space measures approximately 280 meters long and 60 meters wide, creating a compact and tightly-knit community.
The island was originally known as Dog Ait before the British Treasury purchased it as a gift to Admiral Nelson following his 1798 naval victory at the Battle of the Nile. This royal gesture shaped the location's identity and Egyptian theme for centuries to come.
The residents named their homes after Egyptian places, creating a distinct identity linked to Admiral Nelson's naval victory. Walking through the island, you encounter these geographical references woven into everyday life.
Access to the island is by boat only, as no bridges connect it to the mainland and entry is carefully managed. Visitors should understand that resident privacy is protected and exploration may be limited to designated areas.
The island served as a filming location for several movies, including director John Boorman's Hope and Glory in 1987 and Queen and Country in 2014. This hidden connection to British cinema production is something most visitors never know about.
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