Sometimes we find out about something, here at Secret London, and we just think to ourselves, ‘that is so London’. Whether it’s a freaky little museum full of oddities or a restaurant dedicated to cheese, cheese, and more cheese, they capture London’s quirky spirit. And one such spot is Eel Pie Island, a private island in south-west London, which boasts a fascinating history.
The island is currently home to a selection of artists’ studios that open to the public on a handful of weekends a year. These openings are the only opportunity you’ll have to visit the island – unless you happen to know one of the 120-odd residents who live there. And it’s opening up to the public this weekend (July 11-12)!
Eel Pie Island
Eel Pie Island itself got its name from the pies baked using locally caught eels. These were served by the island’s residents to passing river traders. This trend didn’t last, but the name stayed.
The island was once a hub for jazz, blues and rock ‘n’ roll. Many famous artists played in the ballroom at the legendary Eel Pie Island Hotel, including Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton and The Who. In 1963, there was even a period of time when The Rolling Stones were playing at the Eel Pie Island Hotel every week.
Towards the end of the sixties, the venue fell into disrepair and was forced to close. Shortly afterwards, it was taken over by a group of anarchists, and the island quickly became one of the UK’s largest hippie communes.
The hotel then perished in a fire in the early 1970s, and the hippies fled. However, the island maintains its boho vibe and is now home to a number of artists’ studios and unique sights.
Visiting the island
Eel Pie Island is accessible only via a footbridge. It only opens to visitors for a select few dates each year. And one of those sets of dates has already been and gone! Fortunately, another set of entry dates is taking place this weekend on July 11-12, between 11am-5pm each day.
Those who want to explore Eel Pie Island will need to grab a free ticket. This keeps numbers down to ensure a “safe and enjoyable weekend for… visitors and neighbours.” Each ticket provides a 2-hour window for you to explore the island’s sights.
These open days are a chance for visitors to talk to the artists, explore their workspaces, and buy or commission new artworks. But mostly, let’s be honest, it’s a chance for a good (and respectful!) nosey around. Everywhere you look, there’s something new and interesting to spot, amidst Eel Pie Island’s beautiful, albeit quirky, surroundings.
If you miss your chance to visit this summer, keep an eye out for future dates – with the island sometimes opening up for a few days in the cooler months too. And if you’re planning ahead to 2027, keep an eye out for open dates in June or July and in December.
If you’re not available for the open dates each year, or just fancy learning a little bit more about the island, you can also head to the Eel Pie Island Museum on Richmond Road.
Keep an eye on the website for future open dates.
📍 You’ll find Eel Pie Island at the Twickenham Embankment, Middlesex, TW1 3DY.
🚇 The nearest station is Twickenham.
