Monkey Island Hotel

Specialties

A centuries-​old retreat hidden in the River Thames, Monkey Island Hotel offers the perfect setting for everything from weddings to weekend getaways to an evening of fine dining.

Accessed only by footbridge or boat and surrounded by elegant gardens, Monkey Island is reminiscent of a secluded paradise, yet is only ten minutes from Windsor and less than an hour’s drive from Central London. Located less than one mile from the centre of Bray, Monkey Island is the ideal location for anyone visiting the local area.

With 26 rooms and our stylish Pavilion Restaurant and Terrace Bar, guests enjoy all of the amenities of a welcoming hotel while being immersed in the island’s intriguing history.

History

Established in 1897.

Historical records of the island date back to the 12^th century, but the history of the hotel begins when Charles Spencer, third Duke of Marlborough, bought the island in 1723. Known for his passion for angling, he built a Fishing Pavilion and a Temple (now the Pavilion and Temple Buildings) so that he could enjoy his new purchase to the full. In 1840 it became a riverside inn and by the beginning of the 20^th century it was so fashionable that King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra used to bring their family for afternoon tea.

Notable people who have visited Monkey Island include: Edward Elgar, H.G. Wells and Rebecca West. More recently, in 1991, Kate and Pippa Middleton were bridesmaids, at a wedding held on the island.

Several theories surround the island’s name. Most popular is that Monkey Island is derived from Andieu de Clermont’s paintings in the Monkey Room. However, the name most probably evolved from Monks’ Eyot, after the monks that resided at Merton Priory who first used the i