Desborough Island, River island in Surrey, England
Desborough Island is an artificial island in the Thames south of Walton-on-Thames, situated between the main river channel and the Desborough Cut. The site features open grasslands, sports grounds, and water treatment facilities spread across its expanse.
The island was created in the 1930s when the Thames Conservancy dug out a channel to improve river navigation and reduce flooding. Excavating the Desborough Cut formed this new landmass and permanently reshaped the river's geography in the area.
The island appeared in Culture Club's 1983 music video for Karma Chameleon, where it stood in for an American river landscape. This pop culture moment gave the place a small spot in music history despite being located in England.
Two bridges from Walton Lane provide access to the grasslands, sports facilities, and nature conservation areas on the island. Some sections may have restricted or seasonal access, so it is worth checking conditions before visiting.
The Desborough Cut shortened the original Thames route by three-quarters of a mile, and as a side effect created this sizable island. This alteration of the river's path was not only important for boat traffic but also permanently reshaped the landscape.
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