Eel Pie Island Museum
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Eel Pie Island Museum

4.8
·135 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Eel Pie Island, a historic Thames island famed for its 60s music scene and vibrant artist community.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

July & December weekends

Artist open studios

CrowdMedium
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Eel Pie Island Museum

Eel Pie Island Museum

Best Time

July & December weekends

Artist open studios

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Eel Pie Island, a historic Thames island famed for its 60s music scene and vibrant artist community.

4.8
(135 reviews)

"A pilgrimage site for music lovers, offering a unique vibe described as 'more like California than the UK'."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Museum Location Note

The museum isn't on the island itself, but a short walk away in Twickenham. :world_map:

🚶‍♀️ Island Access

No cars or bikes on the island! Prepare to walk everything in. :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Eel Pie Club's Legacy

The Eel Pie Club's Legacy

Eel Pie Island Museum

Explore exhibits detailing the legendary Eel Pie Club, a launchpad for iconic bands like The Rolling Stones.

Artist Open Studios

Artist Open Studios

Eel Pie Island

Experience the vibrant creative community during biannual open studio events, showcasing local artists.

Island's Unique Atmosphere

Island's Unique Atmosphere

Eel Pie Island

Wander the car-free island, feeling a unique vibe described as 'more like California than the UK'.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Access & Hours

Eel Pie Island Museum is a short walk from Twickenham town center, but the island itself has no motor vehicles. Plan your visit around museum opening times, as access to the island is often best enjoyed during open studio events.

Music History Hub

This museum is a treasure trove for music lovers, especially fans of 60s rock, jazz, and blues. Discover the island's pivotal role in British music history and its connection to legendary artists.

Best Times

When
July & December weekends
Why
Artist open studios
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter museum visits
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

brb manifesting a future here 🎨 #london #londontiktok #thames #londontravel #eelpieisland #fyp #artinlondon #londonart #openday #openstudios #cottagecore #accidentallywesanderson #freethingstodoinlondon #twickenham #londonhiddengems #londonsecretspots
@lesserknownlondon
5.5K likes • 45.6K views

🎯 Museum Location Note

The museum isn't on the island itself, but a short walk away in Twickenham. :world_map:

🚶‍♀️ Island Access

No cars or bikes on the island! Prepare to walk everything in. :athletic_shoe:

Today’s walk started at the Eel Pie Island Museum and took me all the way to Richmond Bridge. I passed Lebanon Court and the famous “grumpy hedge,” then continued by The Crown pub, Marble Hill, and St Stephen’s Church. From there, I wandered through the quiet streets of Cambridge Park, admiring its beautiful houses, before rejoining Cresswell Road and reaching the bridge — a lovely route full of l...
twickenham_community
5 likes • 106 views
🏝️ Eel Pie Island is an easily accessible island (by footbridge) on the River Thames, located in Twickenham, near Richmond Park 🦌 🥁The island played a key role in the development of British music due to all the music studios there in the 1900s. The island still hosts open studios twice a year, usually in July and December 🎶 🎸There’s actually around 180 Islands altogether on the River Thames wh...
londonxploring
274 likes • 19.1K views

🎶 Music History Deep Dive

Chat with knowledgeable volunteers for fascinating stories about the island's music scene. :microphone:

☕ Friendly Welcome

Expect a warm reception and perhaps even a cuppa from the staff. :tea:

Have you ever been to Eel Pie Island in Twickenham London? 🎺🎼😎🎨👩‍🎨 Once a famous venue for jazz and blues in the 1960s, now home to a vibrant & diverse group of artists and creatives as well as a few boatyards! I popped by last weekend on a drizzly Saturday for their open studios and it definitely cheered me up on a grey day! This biannual event is a great opportunity to explore the island, wh...
jennymuncaster
74 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Museum Location Note

The museum isn't on the island itself, but a short walk away in Twickenham. :world_map:

🚶‍♀️ Island Access

No cars or bikes on the island! Prepare to walk everything in. :athletic_shoe:

🎶 Music History Deep Dive

Chat with knowledgeable volunteers for fascinating stories about the island's music scene. :microphone:

☕ Friendly Welcome

Expect a warm reception and perhaps even a cuppa from the staff. :tea:

🖼️ Art & Culture

Discover a diverse group of artists and creatives living and working on the island. :art:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(135 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Eel Pie Island Museum's rich musical history and the island's unique, tranquil atmosphere. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteer staff are frequently praised for bringing the stories to life. While small, the museum is packed with fascinating exhibits, making it a worthwhile destination for music and history buffs.

"This is a fantastic museum telling the story of one of London's, historically significant, music venues.
On my visit I met and talked at length to Michele Whitby (curator) and her assistant. Made to feel so welcome, lovely cuppa, and I'll definitely be back.
Make a pilgrimage to this museum and the Twickenham pubs. You won't regret it!"

Anthony Jones

"Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Some unique exhibits and a cool vibe (man). Not to be missed."

Martin

"Very nice spot with so much concentration of music history in it. Definitely worth visiting. It's not easy to explore everything, so I'll come back a few more times. Nice guides and lovely atmosphere."

Gleb Zhuravlev

What People Like

Rich music history
Friendly, knowledgeable staff
Unique island atmosphere

What People Dislike

Museum is small
Island access requires walking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Eel Pie Island Museum is located in Twickenham, a short walk from the town center and Twickenham train station. You can reach the island itself via a footbridge from the mainland. :train: :walking:

Yes, Twickenham is well-served by public transport, including regular train services and buses. The museum is a short walk from the station. :bus: :train:

No, motor vehicles, bicycles, and motorcycles are not allowed on Eel Pie Island. Access is by footbridge only. Parking is available in Twickenham town center. :noentrysign: :car:

The island is best explored on foot. Be prepared to walk everything in, as there are no vehicles allowed. :athletic_shoe: :walking:

No, the Eel Pie Island Museum is not located on the island itself, but a short 5-minute walk up the road in Twickenham. :round_pushpin:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum typically opens on specific days, often coinciding with artist open studio events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening hours. :clock:

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially for special events like artist open studios, to ensure entry. :ticket:

Admission fees may apply, and it's advisable to check the museum's official channels for current pricing. Donations are often appreciated. :moneywithwings:

Artist open studios usually take place twice a year, typically in July and December. These events offer a great opportunity to visit the island and see artists at work. :art: :calendar:

Access to Eel Pie Island via the footbridge is generally free, but it's always good to confirm local regulations. :moneywithwings:

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The museum showcases the rich history of Eel Pie Island, focusing on its significant role in British music, particularly the 1960s jazz and blues scene, and its community of artists. :musical_note: :art:

Eel Pie Island is famous for its historical music venues, especially the Eel Pie Club, which hosted legendary bands, and its ongoing community of artists and creatives. :guitar: :studio_microphone:

The museum often has enthusiastic volunteer staff who can provide insightful information and share first-hand knowledge about the island's history. :speaking_head:

Visitors describe the island as having a unique, relaxed atmosphere, with some even comparing it to California. It's a car-free haven with a strong artistic presence. :relaxed: :california:

Allow at least an hour or more to fully explore the museum and soak in the history. If visiting during open studios, you might want to dedicate half a day. :stopwatch:

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the charming island cottages, the footbridge, the Thames river views, and the unique artistic installations during open studio events. :camerawithflash: :bridgeatnight:

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff before taking extensive photos inside to ensure you're respecting any restrictions. :iphone:

The views from the footbridge looking towards the island and along the Thames are particularly picturesque. The island itself offers many quaint corners. :camera:

Many visitors enjoy capturing the 'cottagecore' aesthetic, the 'accidentally Wes Anderson' vibes, and the general charm of this hidden London gem. :sparkles: :housewithgarden:

Drone usage is often restricted in residential and sensitive areas. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone. :noflysymbol:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Eel Pie Island offers a unique adventure for families. The car-free nature of the island makes it a safe space for children to explore. Pack a picnic and enjoy the riverside views. The Eel Pie Island Museum provides engaging exhibits that can spark curiosity about music and local history, though younger children might need some context to fully appreciate the rock and roll heritage. TikTokInstagram

Consider timing your visit with the artist open studio events (usually July and December). This can be a fun way for kids to see different types of art and crafts being made. The novelty of walking over the footbridge and exploring a car-free island is often a hit with younger visitors. :child: :picnicontree:

🎸 Music Enthusiasts

For fans of classic rock, jazz, and blues, Eel Pie Island is a must-visit. The Eel Pie Island Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Eel Pie Club, a legendary venue that launched the careers of many iconic British bands. Dive into the exhibits detailing the island's pivotal role in the 1960s music scene. Instagram+1

Beyond the museum, the island itself resonates with musical history. Imagine the sounds of The Rolling Stones and The Who echoing through the air as you wander its paths. Visiting during the artist open studios can also offer a glimpse into the continued creative spirit of the island, which has always been a breeding ground for talent. :electric_plug: :vinyl:

🎨 Art Lovers

Eel Pie Island is a vibrant hub for artists. The island is home to a diverse community of creatives who open their studios to the public during special open studio events, typically held in July and December. This is a fantastic opportunity to see a wide range of art, from painting and sculpture to crafts, and even meet the artists themselves. Instagram+1

Even outside of open studio times, the island has an artistic ambiance. The Eel Pie Island Museum also touches upon the island's history as a creative enclave. Exploring the island's unique architecture and riverside setting provides a picturesque backdrop for appreciating art and photography. :paintbrush: :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Musical Heartbeat of Eel Pie Island

Eel Pie Island holds a legendary place in the annals of British music history. In the 1960s, the Eel Pie Club on the island became a pivotal venue for emerging jazz, blues, and rock musicians. Bands like The Rolling Stones, The Who, and Rod Stewart cut their teeth performing here, with many going on to achieve global fame. The museum vividly recounts these stories, showcasing memorabilia and anecdotes that bring this vibrant era back to life. It’s a pilgrimage site for anyone interested in the roots of modern British rock music. Instagram+2

Beyond the famous names, the island fostered a unique creative spirit. The Eel Pie Island Museum itself is a testament to this, run by passionate volunteers who share their deep knowledge and enthusiasm. They often share personal stories and insights that you won't find in history books, making the experience incredibly engaging. Visitors often mention the friendly staff and the welcoming atmosphere, making it feel like a personal tour. Reddit

While the iconic music venue is long gone, the island continues to be a hub for creativity. It now hosts a diverse community of artists and craftspeople who open their studios biannually, usually in July and December. This offers a fantastic opportunity to see contemporary art and crafts in a unique setting, continuing the island's legacy of artistic expression. Instagram+1

Navigating Eel Pie Island: Access and Island Life

Accessing Eel Pie Island is part of its unique charm. The island is connected to the mainland by a footbridge, and importantly, no motor vehicles, bicycles, or motorcycles are allowed on the island. This car-free environment contributes to its tranquil atmosphere. Visitors are advised to park in Twickenham town center and walk to the island. Instagram

This restriction means that any deliveries or removals must be done by boat or by trolley from the bridge. This logistical quirk adds to the island's distinct character and sense of community. The absence of traffic noise allows for a more immersive experience of the natural surroundings and the quiet residential life. Instagram

The Eel Pie Island Museum itself is conveniently located a short walk from the island, in Twickenham. This means you can explore the museum's historical exhibits first and then venture onto the island to experience its present-day atmosphere. Planning your visit around the museum's opening hours and the biannual artist open studio events will maximize your experience. Reddit

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