Boulter's Island

Boulter's Island is a river island in the Thames at Maidenhead, positioned at Boulter's Lock with private homes, a restaurant, and a small boatyard featuring a slipway. The site sits between the lock cut and Ray Mill Stream as part of a series of islands along this stretch of the river.

The island came into its current form with the construction of Boulter's Lock in 1829, when George Treacher oversaw the building of a new masonry lock structure. This engineering project fundamentally shaped how the river and island developed together.

The island serves as a private residential retreat within the Thames landscape, shaped by its wealthy inhabitants who have valued riverside living here for generations. Local boaters and walkers recognize it as a distinctive landmark in the river's ecosystem.

You can reach the island via Boulter's Bridge, which crosses over the tail of the lock complex and provides direct access from the riverbank. Parking is available on Ray Mead Road nearby, making the footbridge crossing straightforward to access.

BBC broadcaster Richard Dimbleby made his home here, giving the island a place in British broadcasting history through his residence. This connection to a prominent media figure drew attention to the location during his lifetime.

GPS coordinates: 51.53329,-0.69954

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:08