Abingdon Lock

Abingdon Lock is a river lock and footbridge crossing on the Thames in Oxfordshire, England. The structure features a lock chamber with a distinctive silver parasol roof covering the lock-keeper's workspace, along with a pedestrian bridge that spans the waterway.

The lock was constructed in 1790 by the Thames Navigation Commission to improve navigation on a river reach managed by Abingdon Abbey monks since the 10th century. The project built upon centuries of earlier work to manage water flow in this section.

The lock-keeper's residence with its distinctive silver parasol roof has served as a social hub where travelers and boaters gather for refreshments and rest. This tradition of hospitality has made it a natural meeting point along the river for many generations.

You can reach the lock via a track from Abingdon Bridge or by walking along a footpath beside the river through Abbey Meadows. The terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle.

Before the current lock was built, this site featured Swift Ditch, where a pound lock was constructed as early as 1635. The navigation route was then relocated to its present course in 1788, paving the way for today's structure.

Location: Oxfordshire

GPS coordinates: 51.67050,-1.26920

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:47