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Information About Cookham, The Thames
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Things to do in Cookham
Back to topWhy do we recommend stopping here?
This ancient village was thought to have been inhabited by the Romans and was developed by the Saxons in the 7th & 8th centuries There are many well preserved old buildings from the 17th century and good pubs and restaurants. The Thames Path passes through the village and it is a favourite place for tourists and walkers.
What is there to see?
One of England's oldest licensed houses, the Bel and Dragon, was reputedly built in 1417 and is a grade II listed building. Cromwell Cottages at Cookham Dean are thought to have had Roundhead soldiers billeted there during the English Civil War. Studio House, now looking anything but modern, was shown at the Ideal Home Exhibition in the 30's in a style known as "ultra modern". Holy Trinity Church, a short walk from the riverside moorings, has a square Perpendicular Tower holding eight bells and is unusual in that it displays both a clock and a sundial. Bisham Abbey (now home to the National Sports Centre) was founded in the 12th century and was part of the divorce settlement for Henry VIII's fourth wife, Anne of Cleves.
What can I visit?
The Stanley Spencer Gallery in the former Methodist chapel has been transformed into a stunning exhibition space with the help of the Heritage Lottery Fund and houses over 100 of the artists paintings. There are several good brasses in the church, which is mostly 13th century. Take a walk upstream of the moorings towards Cock Marsh and Winter Hill, which offers a great view over the Thames Valley.
Is this place famous for anything?
The lock at Cookham is unique in that it is the only one on the River Thames that has fully operational middle gates.
Do any famous people live here?
Cookham is closely associated with the artist Sir Stanley Spencer, who lived in the village until his death in 1959. Several of his paintings - notably 'The Resurrection, Cookham' - were set in the village. His grave can be seen in the churchyard.
Insider Information
The colourful Swan Upping Ceremony takes place at Cookham during the third week of July. This is the time when the Royal Swankeeper catches all new cygnets and assigns ownership.
Is there a market day?
No
Is there a public swimming pool?
No
Is there a golf course here or nearby?
Winter Hill Golf Club. Grange Lane, Cookham, Maidenhead, Berkshire. Tel: 01628 527613.
Shopping in Cookham
Back to topSupermarket
Spar
130 Cookham Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 7HR.
Supermarket
Budgens Stores
Cliveden View Shopping Centre, Cookham, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 9RD
Supermarket 3
The nearest bigger supermarkets are Somerfield Supermarket and the Co-op at Bourne End, approx 1.5 miles before Cookham. A larger range of shops is available at Maidenhead. Also at Cookham Lock, there is a small shop which is open weekends and most school holidays, selling basic provisions.
What other shops are there??
Antiques and boutiques
Practicalities at Cookham
Back to topMooring
There is a long stretch of moorings above the bridge. The first section has a line of trees edging the footpath, which can make mooring difficult, but the ones by the meadow are more open, though with less depth in places. An overnight mooring fee is charged. The village itself is only a short walk away. There are also moorings on both sides of the river at Bourne End, one outside the Moorings pub, (only for customers at the pub) and the other near the Upper Thames Sailing Club.
Can I get water here?
At Cookham Lock
Are there any 220v points to plug the boat into?
No
Are there any waste pump facilities here?
No
Are there any public waste bins here?
Yes, at Cookham lock
Are there toilet/shower facilities here?
Yes, at Cookham lock
Is there a bank?
Lloyds TSB, 2 The Parade, Bourne End, SL8 5TA Barclays, 61-63 The Parade, Bourne End, SL8 5SB
Is there an ATM?
Yes
Is there a post office?
Yes, Lower Rd, Cookham, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 9EH
Is there a pharmacy?
G&N Brunsden Ltd, The Pharmacy, Lower Rd, Cookham, Maidenhead, SL6 9HF Tel: 01628 521369. Lloyds Pharmacy 1-3 The Parade, Bourne End, SL8 5SA. Tel: 01628 520144
Can I get internet access here?
You can access the internet at Cookham Library at High Road, Cookham Rise, SL6 9JF
