Cleeve Lock

Cleeve Lock is a navigation lock on the River Thames in Oxfordshire, controlling water level changes of roughly 1 meter. The lock structure is approximately 41 meters long and 5 meters wide, operated by a hydraulic system to manage river flow.

The lock was originally built in 1787 and underwent major reconstruction in 1874 to handle increased river traffic. This modernization improved operational efficiency and set new standards for Thames navigation.

The lock appears in Jerome K. Jerome's novel 'Three Men in a Boat', connecting the river to English literature and riverside leisure culture. This literary connection has made the site familiar to generations of readers exploring the Thames by boat.

The lock sits at the start of the longest stretch of non-tidal river and offers good views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors should know that the area gets busier during boating season, so visiting early in the day provides a more relaxed experience.

Until 1869, a single lock keeper managed both Cleeve Lock and the nearby Goring Lock. This remarkable arrangement reveals how lean operations were run on the Thames during the 19th century.

Location: Oxfordshire

GPS coordinates: 51.53190,-1.13641

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:06