Exploring Spring Grove Isleworth
Saturday 9th September : Time: 2.30 p.m.
Meet: Forecourt, Isleworth Railway Station, London Road, TW7 4BX
Buses: 237, 117, 235, H37, E8
Parking: limited parking in side roads, pay-and-display at Railway station.
Although retaining its rural character until the early 20thC development was underway by the 1830s. Centred around Spring Grove House, home of Sir Joseph Banks, botanist and explorer, the 1850-60s vision was for a grand Victorian suburb its villas designed by John Taylor Jnr inclining to an Italian influence. Today’s wider variety of architecture includes a former college by John Norton & P E Massey and a swathe of quirky arts and crafts semi-detached properties, while the Crown Court was fashioned from a hostel for paraplegics built 1948, now with a 1990s addition.
Explore Hidden Isleworth
Saturday 16th September : Time: 2.30 p.m.
Meet: Isleworth Ward Memorial junction Twickenham Road/South Street, TW7 6DL
Nearest stations: St. Margarets and Isleworth then H37 bus
Buses: 267, H22, 481, H37
A circular guided tour of around 90 minutes exploring a variety of architecture from a community venue built as a Library and Reading room that has a Thomas Crapper manhole cover giving a clue to its age, to a similar date former Police Station. Also discover Isleworth’s pottery manufactory site beside the Thames while contrasting grand 18thC properties, one designed by Edward Blore, and including a one-time home of artist Vincent Van Gogh, as well as almshouses endowed 1885 still providing accommodation for two couples.
