The first time I drove past Temple Island, several years ago on the way to Henley-on-Thames, it was early morning and so foggy I could barely see the banks of the river. Headlamp on, driving as slowly as possible, it was beautiful and spooky. The thick bank of fog ended abruptly at the island, a dramatic sight as it loomed into view.
This time, headed towards Henley on a sunny day, the island was more clearly visible. The island’s elegant ornamental temple is a folly, designed by the 18th century English architect James Wyatt and constructed in 1771 to be a fishing lodge.
This is one of the most perfect places on the Thames, with fine views all around, sheep grazing and a perfect place for a picnic.
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