Cookham Lock
Cookham, Bourne End SL6 9SR, United Kingdom
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About This Campsite
Cookham Lock Campsite
Welcome to Cookham Lock, a unique camping site nestled along the scenic Thames. Known for its tranquil setting and abundant wildlife, this spot offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Due to its remote location with no access for cars and caravans, it is particularly suited for walkers and canoeists. Grill facilities are available but must be used off the grass, and the basic amenities like showers and toilets, though not luxurious, serve their purpose adequately.
Important Considerations:
- Access and Booking: It is essential to pre-book your camping spot as per the latest policies from the Environment Agency. Spontaneous stays are unfortunately not allowed anymore, so ensure all arrangements are made beforehand.
- Location: Due to its isolation, make sure to plan your journey carefully as it is a distance from the nearest road, making it ideal for those traveling by foot or water.
- Atmosphere: The lock area is beautifully maintained with seasonal plants providing a welcoming atmosphere. The lock keeper is known to be knowledgeable and helpful, offering insights into the local area and points of interest.
Overall Thoughts:
Cookham Lock offers an enticing escape into nature with its peaceful environment and lack of vehicular interference. However, it is currently closed for public access in line with Environment Agency’s policy. Should it reopen, it promises to be a worthwhile visit for those looking to enjoy a quiet camping experience along the Thames. Remember to respect booking requirements to ensure a pleasant visit.
Photos
Photos provided by Google
Reviews
Reviews provided by Google
Pawel Zawadzki
04/22/2019
Great campsite in very quiet spot. No access for cars and caravans makes it so special. Reasonable prices and friendly lock keeper. Grill allowed but must be kept off the grass. Showers and toilets could have been better but still acceptable. Definitely will go back.
Andrew Crosby
08/16/2024
The campsite is now closed and there is no access to the site. This is an Environment Agency policy for Thames lock sites .
Jonathan Westlake
06/30/2019
Lovely little camping spot. Loads of wildlife at night. Shower and loo basic, but absolutely fine. Best suited for walkers/canoeists as quite a distance from the road.
lorraine wilson
07/16/2018
Lovely setting! Great for camping! Friendly Lock-Keeper very helpful and gave us plenty of knowledge on local places of interest. Lock looked lovely with seasonal potted plants. We look forward to returning next year. :)
Gareth Craddock
07/05/2018
We were on a rowing trip along the Thames and arrived here about 1830 on a Sunday evening. There were no signs/information and no one was around but it was evident where the campsite area was so we moored out of the way and unloaded our stuff from the boat to camp for the night. About 8pm the lock keeper appeared in a very grumpy mood and said we couldn't stay as we hadn't booked in advanced. This was despite the campsite not having a single other person on. He then asked us to move on repeating that we should have booked through the website. Having paddled a long way in 30 degree heat that day already and about to cook dinner we were not keen move on from an actual campsite! He finally relented and left us but evidently did not want us there and said he wanted the campsite closed down. Between our crew we have camped at many campsites over the years and 99% of them are completely fine for you to set up and sort out payment etc... the next morning. If not, it is made clear. The official environment agency website, other Web/guide book information, and information on the ground does not anywhere mention the requirement to pre-book. The next morning he was in a slightly better mood but it was a bitter end to the previous day and he was certainly the least friendly lock keeper we met on the Thames. The location is fantastic and worthy of 5 stars but unfortunately it was ruined for us. If you are going to do something completely different to the vast majority of campsites, then make it clear. We do hope it continues to operate and is not shut down by him. I guess though a large quango like the EA are not a subject to the same commercial pressures and this site is a minor secondary concern. If the lock keeper reads this; I hope you appreciate the litter pick we did when we arrived.