The Eel Pie Island Museum has welcomed thousands of visitors from all over the world – some on a trip down memory lane, revisiting the days of their youth, some discovering anew the wealth of fascinating tales this little island has to offer.
The museum is the result of years of research, dedication and passion by the team who turned a semi-derelict space into the vibrant, welcoming celebration of all things ‘Eel Pie’ that you see today.
The history of Eel Pie Island tells a fascinating and varied story. From the role it played in the RnB boom of the 60s to its historical boatyards, maverick characters and pioneering spirit of inventive creativity, these fabulous stories are told in the museum, not just on its walls, but also from the first-hand experience of some of its superb volunteers.
Music Heritage
A phenomenal array of bands, many of which are now household names, graced the stage in the run-down ballroom of the Eel Pie Hotel between 1956 – 1970. Many thousands flocked there to soak up the sonic delights of blues, RnB, and psychedelic rock…finding a freedom to discover themselves whilst dancing to a soundtrack supplied by the Rolling Stones, Jeff Beck, Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton, David Bowie and many more.
Boatyards
Boatyards have been a major part of Eel Pie Island’s landscape for well over a century. With a cast of pioneering characters providing the backbone of resources and knowledge necessary in maintaining the Thames as a working river, the stories behind the island’s boatyards have remained largely untold up until now. From 1893 to the present day the islands boatyards have built and maintained many vessels that float on London’s mighty river.
We will explore the impact the club made on its enthralled attendees, the wider community and even to national political comment this is the incredible history of Eel Pie Island
All this and more will be followed by Christmas Dinner at the Historic Eel Pie Pub
