Oliver's Island

Oliver's Island is a small wooded island in the River Thames between Kew and Strand-on-the-Green in Hounslow, London. The site provides habitat for herons, cormorants, and Canada geese and is managed by the Port of London Authority.

The island gained a tollbooth structure in the late 1700s to control river traffic and collect navigation fees. It later became a protected natural space that local communities worked to preserve.

The place holds meaning for local people who have worked to protect it from development over many years. Residents see it as a natural space worth preserving within the city.

The island is easily visible from Strand-on-the-Green and offers good views of the Thames. The best time to visit or photograph is early morning or late afternoon when light is favorable and bird activity is higher.

Local folklore speaks of a secret tunnel that supposedly linked the island to the Bull's Head pub on shore. While no evidence supports this tale, it remains part of neighborhood lore and is still shared today.

GPS coordinates: 51.48500,-0.28111

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:06