Hidden Henley

This is the view from Henley bridge of a really busy spot, especially in the summer, the Angel on the Bridge river terrace. Many readers will be here at some time during the new year of 2026. The premises are Grade II listed and date to 1728 but most customers here are too busy enjoying themselves to notice the old flood stone set into the wall which reads: “In the flood of 1809 On the 28^th Jan The Thames rose To the bottom of this Stone”.

There are plenty of curious flood markers on Riverside, on Hobbs’ wall and at locks on the river but this one is especially interesting with its old lettering and to imagine the frightening height of the flood-water rushing past as you look at this stone. The water must have been worryingly close to the top of the bridge arches.

Some reports say that in the past the flooding problem was worsened by the then Thames Conservancy stopping dredging, and earlier still by barges dumping gravel, ashes and rubbish, as well as mill owners purposely allowing meadows to flood to provide a head of water for their businesses. There are many stories concerning floods which date to 1249, 1564, 1668, 1693, 1773-4, 1894, 1947, 2000-1, 2003, 2014, 2021, 2024, amongst others, plus this one of 1809. In posts following this I’ve added additional photos of the scene today, including the “angel” on the other side of the building, as well as flooding pictures I think may surprise you from 2000 of Mill Meadows, Mill Lane, Camps Pool and nearby Sonning backwater bridges.

I’ll be pleased to read any flooding themed stories that you would like to share.