Eel Pie Island Museum: A Portal to Twickenham’s Bohemian and Musical Heritage
Discover the vibrant musical and artistic heritage of Eel Pie Island at this intimate museum in Twickenham, celebrating a legendary Thames isle’s unique story.
Located in Twickenham, the Eel Pie Island Museum celebrates the rich and varied history of Eel Pie Island, a small Thames island famed for its vibrant music scene, historic boatyards, and artistic community. The museum offers exhibits on the island’s 1960s rhythm and blues heyday, its role as a creative hub, and its unique river-related heritage, all brought to life by passionate volunteers.
A brief summary to Eel Pie Island Museum
- 1-3 Richmond Rd, Twickenham, TW1 3AB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit Thursday to Sunday between 12 pm and 5:30 pm; last entry is at 5 pm. Check for occasional closures on big rugby days.
- Combine your visit with Eel Pie Island’s biannual open studio events in summer and winter to experience the island’s artistic community firsthand.
- Book group visits in advance to enjoy exclusive access, guided tours, and refreshments for a deeper dive into the island’s history.
- Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for some walking if you plan to explore Twickenham’s embankment and the island’s surroundings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Twickenham station from central London, with journey times typically between 25 to 40 minutes. From the station, it is a 12 to 15-minute walk to the museum on Richmond Road. The walk is mostly flat and accessible. Train fares vary but generally range from £5 to £10 for a single ticket.
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Bus Service
Several local bus routes serve Twickenham town center, including routes 33, 281, and R68. Bus travel times vary from 30 to 60 minutes depending on origin and traffic. The bus stop is a short walk from the museum. Single fares typically cost £2 to £4.
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Car and Parking
Visitors driving to Twickenham can find public parking near Richmond Road. Parking fees apply, usually around £2 to £4 per hour. Note that parking availability can be limited on weekends and during rugby events. The museum is a short walk from parking areas.
Eel Pie Island Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Eel Pie Island Museum
A Storied Island in the Thames
Eel Pie Island, nestled in the River Thames near Twickenham, is steeped in history and cultural significance. Once known as Twickenham Ait, the island’s early use is debated, with some historians suggesting it hosted a monastery and others noting its role as a leisure destination famed for eel pies. In the 19th century, it became a popular resort for steamboat tourists and a hub for rowing, with the Twickenham Rowing Club established in 1860 and still active today. The island’s wooden summer houses and boatyards date back to the early 20th century, many of which remain as workshops and studios for artists and craftsmen.The Musical Epicenter of the 1960s
Eel Pie Island’s fame skyrocketed in the 1950s and 1960s when the Eel Pie Island Hotel became a legendary music venue. Initially hosting traditional jazz gigs, it evolved into a hotspot for rhythm and blues and rock and roll, featuring iconic acts such as The Rolling Stones, The Who, Pink Floyd, and Eric Clapton. The island’s relatively secluded atmosphere allowed for uninhibited self-expression and vibrant youth culture. Despite the hotel’s closure and mysterious fire in 1971, the island’s musical legacy remains a vital part of its identity.The Museum’s Role in Preserving Heritage
Opened in 2018, the Eel Pie Island Museum is a volunteer-led institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the island’s multifaceted history. Located on Richmond Road in Twickenham, the museum houses photographs, memorabilia, and oral histories that capture the island’s journey from a rowing and boat-building center to a bohemian enclave and musical landmark. The museum also offers guided tours and presentations, enriching visitors’ understanding of the island’s cultural and creative significance.Artistic Spirit and Community Today
Today, Eel Pie Island is a thriving artistic community with around 30 studios for sculptors, painters, inventors, and craftspeople, many housed in former boatyards. The island remains private and car-free, accessible primarily during biannual open studio events in summer and winter, when visitors can explore the artists’ workspaces and enjoy the unique atmosphere. The museum complements these events by providing historical context and celebrating the island’s ongoing creative spirit.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers facilities including disabled toilets via a nearby pub. It operates Thursday to Sunday from noon to 5:30 pm, with last entry at 5 pm. Group visits and guided walking tours of Twickenham’s embankment overlooking the island are available by appointment. The museum’s friendly volunteers provide engaging insights, making it a welcoming destination for history buffs, music lovers, and art enthusiasts alike.Legacy and Cultural Impact
Eel Pie Island’s story is one of innovation, creativity, and resilience. From its early days as a rowing hub and leisure spot to its transformation into a cradle of British rhythm and blues, the island has influenced music, art, and local culture profoundly. The museum ensures this legacy endures, connecting past and present through compelling exhibits and community engagement, making it an essential stop for those seeking to understand a unique facet of London’s cultural tapestry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Barmy Arms
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Richmond Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Eel Pie Island
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Orleans House Gallery
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Marble Hill
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Ham House and Garden
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Twickenham Green
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World Rugby Museum & Allianz Stadium Tours
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Strawberry Hill House & Garden
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Kneller Gardens
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Richmond Riverside
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Essential places to dine
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The Bell On The Green - Pub, Bar and Indian Restaurant
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Plaza Premium Lounge London Heathrow (Departures, Terminal 4)
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Harrods
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Louis Vuitton Heathrow T3
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The London Heritage
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the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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LUXX CLUB LONDON
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
