Benson Lock, Lock and footbridge on River Thames in Oxfordshire, England
Benson Lock is a masonry lock with a footbridge spanning the River Thames in Oxfordshire. The structure regulates water levels to enable boats to pass through safely.
The original lock was built in 1788 by the Thames Navigation Commission as an oak structure. The current masonry version replaced it in 1870.
The lock draws people who enjoy watching boats navigate through the water while walking along the river path. It remains a natural gathering spot where visitors pause to observe the rhythm of river traffic.
The lock is accessible from the A4074 road, with limited parking available on nearby streets. Walking along the Thames Path provides the most enjoyable approach to the site.
This location marks the longest stretch between successive locks on the River Thames, spanning about 10 kilometers to the next one. This considerable distance makes it a significant waypoint for extended river journeys.
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