Ray Mill Island: A Serene Escape in Maidenhead
Discover the tranquil beauty of Ray Mill Island, a stunning country park in Maidenhead perfect for picnics, nature walks, and family fun.
Nestled along the banks of the River Thames, Ray Mill Island offers a tranquil escape for tourists and locals alike. This picturesque country park is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its lush greenery, delightful wildlife, and scenic river views, it's an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. Whether you're looking to spend a quiet afternoon or engage in outdoor activities, Ray Mill Island has something for everyone.
A brief summary to Ray Mill Island
- Boulters Lock, Ray Mead Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 8PE, GB
- +441628685757
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and the best light for photography.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal by the river while watching the boats pass by.
- Don't forget to bring your binoculars if you're a birdwatching enthusiast; there are plenty of species to spot!
- Check the local events calendar for seasonal activities, as there are often fun events happening throughout the year.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are plenty of trails to explore, and the terrain can be uneven in some areas.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, use your GPS to navigate to Boulters Lock, Ray Mead Rd, Maidenhead SL6 8PE. From the M4 motorway, take the exit for Maidenhead (Junction 8/9) and follow the A308(M) towards Maidenhead. Continue on the A4 and then take the A4094 towards the river. Look for signs for Boulters Lock. There is parking available nearby, but there may be a fee, so check local signage for details.
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Public Transportation
To reach Ray Mill Island using public transport, start by taking a train to Maidenhead Station from your nearest station. Trains run frequently from London Paddington and other nearby towns. Once you arrive at Maidenhead Station, exit the station and look for bus services that go towards the town centre or Boulters Lock. Bus routes such as the 5 or 15 may take you towards your destination. Alternatively, you can walk from the station to Boulters Lock, which is approximately a 20-minute walk (1 mile). Follow signs toward the river, and you will arrive at Ray Mill Island.
Discover more about Ray Mill Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maidenhead Railway Bridge
1.5 km
A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.
Virgin Experience Days
4.8 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Burning Bush
7.8 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Sydney Camm Memorial
7.9 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
8.4 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
8.4 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
The Curfew Tower
8.4 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Queen Victoria Statue
8.6 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
8.6 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
8.6 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
King Edward III Tower
8.7 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
8.7 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
8.7 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
Ancient well
8.8 km
A humble medieval water source steeped in Windsor's royal heritage and local legend.
Soldier's Statue
8.8 km
A solemn tribute to Irish Guardsmen, this statue in Windsor honors military service amidst a rich historic townscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Boulters Lock
0.2 km
Historic Thames lock and serene riverside gardens offering scenic boat watching, wildlife, and a vibrant pub atmosphere in Maidenhead.
Maidenhead Heritage Centre
2.0 km
Explore Maidenhead’s rich local history and wartime aviation legacy at the welcoming Heritage Centre on Park Street.
Grenfell Park
2.5 km
A historic community park in Maidenhead with playgrounds, sports courts, outdoor gym, café, and scenic green spaces for all ages.
Cliveden House
2.7 km
A storied Italianate mansion overlooking the Thames, where centuries of glamour and intrigue unfold across 376 acres of magnificent gardens.
The Stanley Spencer Gallery
2.9 km
Discover the world’s largest collection of Stanley Spencer’s art in the charming village that inspired his visionary works.
National Trust - Cliveden
3.1 km
Explore Cliveden’s majestic gardens, historic house, and woodlands on a grand Thames Valley estate rich in heritage and natural beauty.
Braywick Nature Centre
3.2 km
Discover Braywick Nature Centre, a peaceful haven blending heritage, wildlife, and immersive environmental learning in the heart of Maidenhead.
River Thames
3.2 km
Discover the River Thames, London’s historic and scenic river weaving through iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural life.
Dorney Wetlands
3.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich wildlife of Dorney Wetlands, a serene nature reserve near Windsor perfect for peaceful walks and birdwatching.
Dorney Court
4.1 km
Discover Dorney Court’s enchanting Tudor manor, stunning gardens, and elegant event spaces—an idyllic estate blending historic charm with modern luxury.
Cock Marsh
4.6 km
Discover Cock Marsh, a tranquil riverside nature reserve blending rare wildlife habitats with ancient Bronze Age burial mounds in scenic Berkshire.
Odds Farm Park
5.4 km
Discover hands-on animal encounters, outdoor adventures, and giant indoor play at Odds Farm Park, a family favorite near High Wycombe.
Marlow Lock
6.1 km
Historic lock and weir on the River Thames offering scenic riverside walks and a glimpse into centuries of river navigation heritage.
History on Wheels Motor Museum
6.2 km
Explore a unique collection of vintage military and civilian vehicles with rich wartime stories near Windsor Castle.
Higginson Park
6.5 km
A vibrant riverside park in Marlow offering family fun, leisure sports, scenic river views, and year-round community events.
Essential places to dine
The Cliveden Dining Room
2.7 km
Experience refined British fine dining in the historic grandeur of Cliveden House, set amidst breathtaking gardens near London.
The Waterside Inn
2.9 km
Experience timeless French haute cuisine and riverside elegance at The Waterside Inn, Bray’s iconic three-Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel.
The Hinds Head
3.0 km
A Michelin-starred British pub in Bray blending traditional charm with Heston Blumenthal’s innovative culinary artistry.
The Fat Duck
3.0 km
Experience a groundbreaking, theatrical tasting journey at The Fat Duck, where culinary science meets nostalgic storytelling in a historic Bray inn.
The Greene Oak
6.6 km
A charming Windsor gastropub blending traditional British pub warmth with seasonal, market-fresh cuisine and stylish dining.
The Ivy Marlow Garden
6.6 km
Elegant British dining with Art Deco charm and a diverse menu on Marlow's historic High Street, perfect for special occasions and leisurely meals.
GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
6.7 km
South African-inspired dining with stunning marina views at Windsor Racecourse Marina, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
Vanilla Pod
6.8 km
Cozy Anglo-French dining in historic Marlow, blending refined flavors with literary heritage and exceptional service.
The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse
6.9 km
Experience luxury dining with panoramic racecourse views at The Castle Restaurant, where thrilling horse racing meets elegant cuisine in Windsor.
King & Lamb Restaurant
7.9 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house setting with superb roasts, vegan options, and a tranquil garden atmosphere.
Test Kitchen Food
7.9 km
Innovative, fresh, and vibrant dining at Windsor’s Test Kitchen Food in a unique brewery tap setting.
Gurkha Royale Restaurant & Bar
8.0 km
Authentic Himalayan, Indian, and Oriental flavors served in a vibrant, welcoming Windsor venue with exceptional service and a lively atmosphere.
Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse
8.2 km
Elegant modern British dining and boutique lodging in the heart of historic Eton, just steps from Windsor Castle.
Côte Windsor
8.2 km
Classic French brasserie dining with stunning riverside views of Windsor Castle in a lively, modern setting.
Browns Windsor
8.3 km
Classic British brasserie charm with contemporary dining on Windsor’s scenic Promenade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
2.1 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
Gifts Box
8.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gifts Box, the charming gift shop in Windsor, perfect for your memorable keepsakes.
Jigsaw
8.4 km
Discover timeless style and quality craftsmanship at Jigsaw, Windsor's boutique for elegant ladies' fashion and unique statement pieces.
Windsor Yards
8.4 km
A vibrant shopping destination blending modern retail with Windsor’s historic charm and community spirit.
Purple Gifts
8.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Oliver Bonas
8.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Oliver Bonas, nestled in the heart of Windsor Yards Shopping Centre.
H&M
8.4 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for men, women, and children in the heart of historic Windsor’s King Edward Court.
Wellington 1895 Antiques Windsor
8.4 km
Centuries of curated treasures in Windsor's most distinguished antique shop.
Piara
8.4 km
Explore Windsor's charm at Piara Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
Middle Ward Shop
8.4 km
Royal souvenirs and gifts within Windsor Castle's historic Middle Ward.
Whistles
8.4 km
Upscale ladies’ fashion boutique set within the historic charm of Windsor Royal Station, blending contemporary style with Victorian elegance.
Craft Coop Windsor
8.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry at Craft Coop Windsor, a welcoming hub for community creativity and bespoke treasures.
A P Souvenirs & Gifts
8.4 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at A P Souvenirs & Gifts, your convenient stop near Windsor Castle for memorable keepsakes.
Next
8.5 km
Next Windsor offers stylish, quality fashion and accessories for all ages in a convenient and welcoming shopping environment.
Mint Velvet Windsor
8.5 km
Discover relaxed glamour and timeless women's fashion at Mint Velvet Windsor, your stylish boutique in Windsor Royal Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Boathouse at Boulters Lock
0.2 km
Riverside gastropub on Boulters Lock Island offering seasonal British cuisine, stunning river views, and a warm, stylish atmosphere.
Off The Tap
2.2 km
Lively Maidenhead pub offering craft beers, tasty pub fare, and vibrant events in a welcoming, fun atmosphere.
The Old Brewery
6.6 km
A vibrant Marlow pub with great beers, lively sports screens, and welcoming service for all occasions.
The Oarsman, Marlow
6.8 km
Sophisticated gastropub in Marlow blending seasonal British cuisine, curated wines, and warm hospitality in a stylish setting.
The Botanist Marlow
6.9 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Marlow, alive with seasonal menus, inventive cocktails, and vibrant live music every weekend.
Milaanj at The Beehive Pub & Restaurant
7.6 km
Discover Milaanj at The Beehive: a rustic village pub in White Waltham serving exquisite British-Indian fusion cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Upstairs Windsor
8.4 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
La planchette
8.4 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
All Bar One Windsor
8.4 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
8.4 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
The Royal Windsor
8.4 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
The Piper Art Bar
8.5 km
Discover a vibrant Scottish-themed bar and contemporary art space in the heart of Windsor, offering an extensive whisky selection and eclectic ambiance.
The Queen Victoria
8.5 km
Step into The Queen Victoria for an authentic 18th-century English pub experience with hearty food, real ales, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere in Windsor.
No5 St Leonards Road
8.6 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Sinner Bar
8.6 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boom
8.4 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
8.5 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
8.5 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
8.5 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
Diligence
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
The Venue, Bucks
11.1 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
11.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Binfield Club
13.1 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
13.6 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
3sixty
19.9 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Q Club
20.8 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Reading Lola Lo
21.0 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Popworld - Reading
21.0 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Gun Street Garden
21.0 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Popworld Watford
24.8 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
