Sandford Lock
Unnamed Road, Sandford-on-Thames, Oxford, OX4 4YD, GB
Rating: 4.6 ★ (178 ratings)
Details
Sandford Lock boasts the deepest fall of all locks on the River Thames, a significant 2.69 metres, making it a striking feature for any river traveller or towpath walker. Originally one of the first three pound locks built on the Thames around 1630, its current structure largely dates from a rebuild in 1972, though some large granite blocks from the earlier lock remain on the lockside. Adjacent to the lock, the infamous Sandford Lasher, a treacherous weir pool, holds a more sombre history, noted by Jerome K. Jerome in "Three Men in a Boat" and marked by an obelisk commemorating those who tragically drowned there. The area around the lock offers a serene escape, with the gentle flow of the Thames and lush riverbanks creating a calming atmosphere perfect for leisurely walks or simply watching the boats navigate the impressive drop.
Easily accessible by road on the outskirts of Oxford, Sandford Lock is a popular spot, conveniently located next to the King's Arms pub, a favoured stop for walkers and boaters alike. The lock serves as an excellent starting or endpoint for riverside walks along the Thames Path, with routes leading towards Iffley Meadows and the college boathouses of Oxford, or downstream through more rural scenery. Keen anglers can find designated fishing spots around the lock and weir, with day tickets available for certain areas. For those looking to arrive by water, Salters Steamers make scheduled stops at the lock during the main season, allowing for easy embarkation or disembarkation to explore this historic and picturesque section of the river.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hours; Thursday: Open 24 hours; Friday: Open 24 hours; Saturday: Open 24 hours; Sunday: Open 24 hours
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