Red Lion Lawn is a curious spot in Henley-on-Thames that many people pass by without noticing. Just below the bridge it was once part of the hotel opposite but is now owned by the council. There are plenty of old photos being published on Facebook sites and the like that show this area as the epitome of fashionable Henley at the turn of the last century. Dressed up for the occasion, customers could take afternoon tea at river level. Waiters and waitresses in traditional dress, laden with trays, would dodge the carriages and traffic to serve at tables with the ever-popular river view.
It has now evolved into a secluded little spot which is often deserted. Although there is no lawn, there are plenty of seats, a raised decked area and a characterful snug shelter with tiled roof. On the downstream side is “Ama of the Thames”, a mermaid sculpture by Amaryllis Bataille who was sponsored to produce sculptures for 20 world wide waterside locations. Ama is the name given to Japanese women pearl divers, known as “ladies of the sea”. I wonder how many notice the rose between her feet? What is its significance?
But Ama is not the only mermaid here! The remarkable Henley Mermaids have two plaques that may be hidden from many people since they are somewhat tucked away here. The Mermaids gathered here after a long swim to protest against river pollution. After descending the steps take a glance back to the right hand side and the names Laura Reineke, Jo Robb, Fiona Print, Susan Barry and Joan Fennelly are recorded as swimming in places further from their usual Henley area activities. One plaque indicates their accomplishment of swimming the English Channel in relay on 22nd July 2020 and the other of the Bristol Channel on 17th September 2022.
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