Pharaoh's Island

Pharaoh's Island, Middlesex, also known as Thorn Island, is a small and historically significant island located in the River Thames, England. With an area of approximately 3.4 acres, it is situated near Shepperton Lock and falls within the borough of Spelthorne.

The island derives its name from an influential incident that occurred in 1822, when the Egyptian ruler Muhammad Ali Pasha presented it to the British government as a gesture of goodwill. However, the island's ownership was later transferred to the Admiralty, and it became a part of the Shepperton Lock Hospital for Infectious Diseases. It served as a quarantine facility for sailors and travelers coming from regions affected by infectious diseases.

Pharaoh's Island is renowned for its unique architecture, featuring a Victorian style hospital building and a chapel. The hospital building was constructed in 1870 and has distinctive red brickwork, with a central tower and a clock face. The chapel, located adjacent to the hospital, exhibits Gothic Revival architecture and adds to the island's historical charm.

Today, Pharaoh's Island is privately owned and is a residential area, consisting of a handful of privately owned houses and cottages. The island offers a tranquil and picturesque environment, with its beautifully maintained gardens and views of the River Thames. Access to the island is by boat only, adding to its secluded and exclusive ambiance.

Pharaoh's Island, Middlesex, with its rich history and idyllic setting, continues to be a unique and sought-after location, attracting residents and visitors alike.