Culham Lock

Culham Lock is the second deepest lock on the Thames (not counting Teddington) with a rise of 2.41 metres (7ft 11in). It is just 0.28 of a metre shallower than the deepest - Sandford Lock.

On the weir stream is the popular and enchanting Sutton Pools, popular with canoeists, birdwatchers and others. There are some excellent walks through here.

The small village of Culham was once much larger. Originally it lay to the left of the present one and the manor house and church are the only visible remains of a medieval settlement.

Why did the village shrink? It could have been caused by the Black Death, or poor harvests following wet summers in the 14th century or even the change to sheep farming which forced labour away.

Domesday in the 11th century recorded a mill on the Thames at nearby Sutton Courtenay. In those days the flash lock or weir was difficult to negotiate by boat due to the shallows. It was also unpopular with river users because of very high tolls charged here.

Eventually, in 1809, a new deeper Culham Cut - and a new pound lock - were excavated and both were welcomed by all who used them.

Here the Thames is rich with roach, chub and carp, whle above ground the variety of wildlife includes red kites, buzzards and kingfishers.

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