But the odd name has nothing to do with eel pies, but rather is a reflection of this queer tiny island on the Thames. This was the place where parents grounded their teenage children for coming to, as it was known as an island where “You could see sex rising like steam from a kettle.”
The natural view and the interesting residents of the island fit perfectly with its unusual and off-beat title.As you walk across the footbridge to the “Island”, you feel as if you are in a wonderland separated from normal life in London just a minute away.There’s only one narrow path on this island, so no car or bicycles, just walking.
On both sides of this small path all you can see are green bushes and houses, which are beyond lovely. A house named “Love shack” is definitely one you won’t miss, when you pass by.It's quirky and far removed from your averageLondon home. The residents even had an issue when they wanted to call it love shack, saying that the name was "too promiscuous."
Does a skeleton night-light or an open-mouthed dinosaur stretching its head out of a window sound scary to you? Don’t judge it untill you see the inside of these homes and meet the lovely people that live here. Many legends have lived on this magical small island. In 1960s, many stars had parties here, with band “The Who” turning up on occasion.
Caricaturists Couple Cassini, have lived here for about two years, they loved their house and thought that Eel Pie Island was a magical place for them to live.
There are also other many creative artists based on this island. Gina Elsworthy used to live on a boat on this island, and now has her own small studio named Gina’s Island Mosaic.
If you are tired of urban life and the hustle and bustle of place, then walk around this tiny island on Thames in Twickenham, inspire yourself and inhale the fresh, pure air.
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It’s hard to describe Eel Pie Island in one sentence. When you first hear about it, you might wonder whether is it an island famous for making eel pies?
by Grace Shen
published on: 13 April, 2010
Eel Pie Island
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