Meet the Animals of Ray Mill Island, Maidenhead
Hidden behind beautiful Boulters Lock is Ray Mill Island, an island in the Thames where the river forks and either thunders over Boulters Weir or pools in Boulters Lock.
Boulters Lock
Boulters Lock is a picturesque place to watch the lock lift and lower boats as they travel the Thames.
Ray Mill Island and the Thames
Ray Mill Island is surrounded by the Thames. When we visited, the river was swollen and flowing very fast.
This does give a visit an exciting edge but note that there are no barriers along the edge of the river.
Ray Mill Island can also flood so be sure to check the Ray Mill Island website before you visit to make sure it is open.
The Wildlife
Ray Mill island is full of wildlife. Ducks, swans, geese, Canada geese and very cute mandarin ducks all roam confidently, as do the squirrels, which are especially brave on this island and can bite!
Animal Enclosures
In a corner of the island there are animal enclosures, which house guinea pigs, parakeets, finches
also lovebirds and other small birds.
Paths and Sculptures
Scattered around Ray Mill Island are pathways, sculptures, benches and bridges. There is also a series of wooden animals to track down.
Boulters Lock Play Area
There is a small play area for children from 3 to 8 years old, with a wobbly bridge that children can climb and play on.
Riverside Gardens
About a ten minute walk down the road is Riverside Gardens Play Area, which has a zip wire, sand pit, cafe and mini golf, as well as the usual play equipment.
Sail the Thames
Next to Riverside Gardens is Maidenhead Promenade, where you can catch a boat to Windsor at certain times of the year. There are also boats to rent nearby and walks up and down the Thames Path.
Visit the Ray Mill Island and Boulters Lock website
Further Information
Nearest Town: Maidenhead
County: Berkshire
Nearest Postcode: SL6 8PE
Opens: Daily but the island can close if the River Thames is high.
Cost: Free
Where to Eat: There is a seasonal cafe on Ray Mill Island and you walk past the Boathouse Restaurant on the way in.
Facilities: Picnic area, toilets, accessible toilets, seasonal cafe, ice cream and snacks.
How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly.
Parking: Boulters Lock car park (SL6 8JN), which is a short walk away.
Cost of Parking: From 50p for three hours.
Wildlife You Might See: Guinea pigs, parakeets, finches, lovebirds and other small birds. Also ducks, swans, coots, moorhens and geese.
Information Written: March 2017
Ratings
Our visit to Ray Mill Island and Boulters Lock and Play Area in Maidenhead is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.
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