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| Cottages at Sonning Eye |
On the opposite, north bank to Sonning Village is an islet in the Thames known as Sonning Eye. They're linked by an historic brick-arched bridge. In fact, half-way across the bridge marks the border between the counties of Oxfordshire and Berkshire. The islet is a conservation area with some protected cottages, barns and an 18th century watermill which has been converted into a small dinner theatre.
Sonning Eye is surrounded by a nature reserve and the river backwaters join several lakes (Caversham Lakes) that have been formed by reclaiming unused gravel pits. In particular, there's a training rowing lake named the Redgrave-Pincent Rowing Lake after the Olympian oarsmen, (Sir) Steve Redgrave and (Sir) Matthew Pincent who, of course, are associated with the area where this competitive water sport is strong with annual Regattas taking place in Sonning and Henley. There's also a Marina, a sailing lake and a stretch used for water skiing.
It's also a popular place for birdwatching and walking and during last weekend we wandered around
one of the lakes. We were pleased to find that the banks and paths were accessible as they have been flooded in recent months due to the continual rain.
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| a Wild Wood - we didn't see Ratty, Mole or Badger! |
