Eel Pie Island is a private island accessible only via a footbridge, and it has many stories to tell. The island got its name from the pies baked using locally caught eels and served by the island’s residents to passing river traders. This trend didn’t last, but the name stayed.
Now, it’s a mysterious place home to artists and creatives. It only opens to visitors for a select few dates throughout the year. Typically, these dates fall around June or July and in December, opening for two weekends at a time. This year’s Summer Open Studios took place on June 28-29 and July 5-6, and we’re raring to visit them again later this year.
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.
The history of Eel Pie Island
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 club was forced to close because the owners couldn’t afford the repairs it desperately needed. 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 unfortunately 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 home to 26 artists’ studios that open to the public twice 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.
These events are a chance for visitors to talk to the artists and buy or commission new artworks. But mostly, let’s be honest, it’s a chance for a good (and respectful!) nosey around.
Keep an eye on the website for future open dates when they’re announced.
đź“Ť You’ll find Eel Pie Island at the Twickenham Embankment, Middlesex, TW1 3DY.
🚇 The nearest station is Twickenham.