Benn's Island

Benn's Island is a small private river island in the Thames above Molesey Lock, featuring a raised clubhouse structure. This building is supported by deep foundation pilings that lift it above water level.

The island was once known as Church Eyot or Kember's Eyot before taking its current name around 1700. This name comes from a family that operated a boatyard on the site until the mid-20th century.

Hampton Sailing Club has made the island a meeting point for sailing enthusiasts over many decades. The site shapes riverbank life with boats and sailing gear that enliven the waterfront.

The island is accessible only through a manually operated pedestrian chain ferry at the downstream end, which connects to Benn's Alley on the northern bank. The narrow channel and limited access mean visitors should plan ahead before arrival.

The water between the island and the bank remains shallow, allowing only small boats to navigate carefully. These water depths shape how the place is used and create a calm contrast to the wider river section.