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FERRY
HOUSE
Laleham Reach, Chertsey
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The History...
The original Ferry House, which was tragically destroyed by fire around 1990, was built in the early 18th century, and is believed to have incorporated in its fabric some of the stones and tiles from the ruined Chertsey Abbey.
It came into the hands of an aristocratic family early in its history. The house and river crossing were sold at auction in 1803 to the Earl of Lucan. Then, 66 years later, one of the earl’s descendants, Field Marshal Lord Lucan, passed the property to the boat builder Jack Harris on a 99-year lease.
In the last century the river crossing had an important part to play. Between 1936 and 1972 George Knight, who was the ferryman at the time, took many foot passengers across the river – it is interesting to note that in 1936 the ferry crossing would cost 2d each way! By 1972 most of the ferry passengers were golfers heading for Laleham golf course. Among the more celebrated ferry passengers were Bob Hope and Bing Crosby, both golf fanatics, of course.
Historians are pretty certain why there was a ferry on the property. During Roman times and even before, there was a ford at Laleham. However, as the river was tidal it is thought that before the locks were built a ferry would be needed at high tide.
