Remember Folly Eyot? It is now D’Oyly Carte Island. This small private island sits in the River Thames. It’s near Weybridge. Let’s explore its unique story.
Richard D’Oyly Carte bought the island around 1890. He was quite the impresario. Carte produced Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic operas. He founded the Savoy Theatre. He even established the Royal English Opera House. D’Oyly Carte Island got its name from him.
Carte planned a special annex to his Savoy Hotel on the island. It would be accessible only by boat. However, local magistrates denied him a liquor license. So, Carte built Eyot House instead. The 13-bedroom mansion became one of his residences. Eyot House was completed in 1898.
Gilbert and Sullivan were among the famous guests. Imagine them discussing their next comic opera. They enjoyed the island’s seclusion.
Carte had a macabre sense of humor. He kept a crocodile on D’Oyly Carte Island. The crocodile reportedly escaped twice. Picture that a crocodile roaming free in Surrey.
After Carte died in 1901 his widow sold the island. Over the years, D’Oyly Carte Island had different owners. It was a hotel in the 1940s. Later it was converted into rental flats. It eventually became a private house again.
By 2019, Eyot House had lost its Victorian grandeur. The abandoned house was sold in 2021. Andy Hill purchased the mansion. He is currently restoring the property. Hill plans to host events there. He even wants to produce a Gilbert and Sullivan opera.
Eyot House features a large garden. Carte and his wife helped design it. Trees surround the house. The facade incorporates fairytale elements. Look for gargoyle and crocodile carvings.
A footbridge provides access to D’Oyly Carte Island. It was built in 1964. Before that, a chain ferry was used. The island also has moorings for small boats.
D’Oyly Carte Island has a rich history. It reflects the life and work of Richard D’Oyly Carte. From Folly Eyot to a cultural hub, the island continues to evolve.