Ray Mill Island - Image 1

Ray Mill Island

Maidenhead, United Kingdom•4.6(1.9k)•City Park, Playground

Explore this riverside island park featuring a children's play area, animal enclosures, and historic Thames weir views perfect for family walks and outdoor activities.

Ray Mill Island is a charming 1.6-hectare riverside park located on the River Thames in Maidenhead, accessible via a pedestrian bridge from Ray Mead Road. The island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and family-friendly facilities that make it an ideal destination for outdoor recreation. The park features dedicated attractions for younger visitors, including a small play area designed for children aged 3-8 years, wooden animal sculptures scattered throughout for imaginative play, and an aviary with guinea pig enclosures. Families can enjoy picnic tables and benches positioned around the island, making it perfect for al fresco dining. A privately-run café, Franca & Sons, provides refreshment options for visitors. Beyond its recreational facilities, Ray Mill Island offers fascinating historical and environmental features. At the northern end sits Boulter's Weir, one of the last remaining weirs on the Thames, which can be viewed as part of a scenic walk. The island's perimeter walk contributes approximately 1,000 steps toward daily fitness goals. Visitors should note that the park may close seasonally (September to April) due to high river levels, and a new addition to the summer experience is boat hire through The Little Green Boat Company, offering a unique way to explore the River Thames.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 07:00 – 20:30
Tuesday: 07:00 – 20:30
Wednesday: 07:00 – 20:30
Thursday: 07:00 – 20:30
Friday: 07:00 – 20:30
Saturday: 07:00 – 20:30
Sunday: 07:00 – 20:30

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

3 years – 8 years

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Franca & Sons

Privately run cafe offering food and refreshments on site

Follow:

Google Reviews

4.6(1.9k reviews)
A
Amna- Elite Escape Travel

Amna- Elite Escape Travel

a month ago

A beautiful and peaceful spot in Maidenhead with lovely riverside views, well-kept gardens, and plenty of wildlife. During my visit, I even spotted a squirrel enjoying the surroundings! The island is clean, relaxing, and perfect for a leisurely walk or simply sitting by the water and watching the world go by. A hidden gem that I would happily visit again.

S
Stacey Hartwell

Stacey Hartwell

3 months ago

Beautiful little spot beside the river. Toilet facilities and ice cream/cafe. Beautiful location for my nieces 3rd birthday party. Dont follow sat nav onto the island, dont cross the bridge, there is no parking there and turnibg around can be tricky!

S
Sandi Wilson

Sandi Wilson

4 months ago

Was a beautiful place to have a picnic with some friends including one using a wheelchair.

M
mark smith

mark smith

8 months ago

Walk through the park and on a sunnier day it would have been a more enjoyable experience.. We just needed to stretch our legs as it was on our route.. And we were very surprised.. nice woodland parkwith pathways and a little zoo with birds and guinea pigs .. Café and toilet facilities if you want to enjoy a cuppa and a snack.. otherwise take your own picnic as there's plenty of places to sit and enjoy the surroundings...

A
a qureshi

a qureshi

a year ago

An awesome family and kids friendly picnic spot. I started coming here in 2004/2005 and it has changed slightly with fresh look A flyover bridge over the river to go to monkey island for a longer walk. Some of the old trees have fallen, hence replaced with new trees now. The water fall is an amazing feature at the end of the day mill island. Ducks, birds and wildlife are another feature, also there’s small aviary where small beautiful birds are kept including doves, finch, parrots etc. There’s small place where you can play tennis, badminton etc too. There’s a small cafe, ice cream parlour as well (opens during the day time only)

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at Ray Mill Island

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Ray Mill Island

Is Ray Mill Island free to visit?

Entry to Ray Mill Island is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Ray Mill Island suitable for?

Ray Mill Island is best for children aged 3 to 8.

Is Ray Mill Island dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Ray Mill Island.

Is there parking at Ray Mill Island?

Ray Mill Island doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Ray Mill Island?

Yes — Franca & Sons is on site at Ray Mill Island. Privately run cafe offering food and refreshments on site

Is Ray Mill Island pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Ray Mill Island is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Ray Mill Island?

Ray Mill Island is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Ray Mill Island by public transport?

Ray Mill Island isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
Kiddy Compass