“Temple Island is situated a mile and a half downstream of the picturesque market town of Henley, on one of the most beautiful reaches of the River Thames. Located amidst rolling water meadows and surrounded by wooded hills, it marks the Start of the famous Henley Royal Regatta Course.
The Temple itself is a delightful folly, designed by James Wyatt as a fishing lodge for Fawley Court, the Christopher Wren mansion on the Henley Reach, from which the Temple completed a charming prospect through an avenue of trees.
The Temple was built in 1771, its interior being based on designs which had just been discovered at Pompeii. This work, now beautifully restored, is the first example in England of the form of ornamentation which came to be known as the Etruscan Style.
The Etruscan Room is of fine proportions and commands magnificent views of the Thames. During the heyday of the Summer Season in Victorian times, the Island and the Temple were used as a vantage point from which members of the Leander Club watched the Regatta.
Today this elegant and exclusive venue is available for hire, both during Royal Regatta Week and throughout the year. It offers a unique setting for entertaining, whether for corporate hospitality, wedding receptions or for private parties. It also provides a secure location for confidential meetings, and an idyllic venue for presentations and promotions.
The Temple offers accommodation for up to 40 guests at a formal luncheon or candlelit dinner. With the addition of an elegant canopy, up to 120 people can enjoy an al fresco party on the riverside lawns surrounding the building.
The Temple contains fully equipped catering facilities, and clients are able to select from a panel of approved caterers, all with extensive experience in staging outdoor functions. The building is also provided with ample cloakrooms.
The Island is approached by boat, of which there is a wide range available to suit the client’s choice of style and size. Whatever the choice, the journey by water adds enchantment to a memorable occasion.
Full details and advice in planning your function are available from Katrina Robinson or Edward Warner at:
Henley Royal Regatta Headquarters
Henley-on-Thames
Oxfordshire, RG9 2LY
Telephone: 01491 572153
Facsimile: 01491 575509
email: temple@hrr.co.uk”
