Blake's Lock

Blake's Lock is a manually operated lock on the River Kennet in Reading, featuring traditional wooden beams. The structure manages water flow and allows vessels to navigate the river.

The lock originated in the 13th century as Brokenburglok, when Reading Abbey's Abbot charged a toll for passing vessels. The structure has undergone repairs and modifications over the centuries.

The Riverside Museum next to the lock displays a medieval mill wheel and Romani heritage items. The collection reflects the area's craft traditions and the diverse communities that have lived here.

The lock sits near the Riverside Museum and is easily reached on foot from Reading's town center. Visitors can watch the lock's operation from the riverbank and explore the surrounding paths.

The lock stands as one of the few Environment Agency-controlled structures located outside the main river system, operating on the Kennet instead. This distinctive placement makes it an interesting example of water management in a tributary system.