Built in 1782 New Haw Lock Cottage stands proudly. This charming lock-keeper’s cottage has witnessed centuries of history. It’s situated on the River Wey Navigation. The cottage played a vital role in the waterway’s operation.
Imagine the lock-keeper’s life here. He controlled the passage of barges along the canal. His cottage was a vital hub. He oversaw the smooth flow of goods and trade. This quiet existence was disrupted in 1982. A gas explosion and fire devastated the cottage. It required extensive rebuilding. Steel strengthening beams were added above the ground floor windows.
Despite this trauma New Haw Lock Cottage survived. It retains much of its original character. Its walls whisper stories of passing boats and bustling activity. Remarkably this very cottage served as a film set. It appeared as Mr Bedford’s Cherry Cottage. This was in the 1964 film First Men in the Moon. This science fiction classic was loosely based on H G Wells’s novel. The author lived near Woking. Woking Heath inspired his War of the Worlds.
Observe the cottage’s architecture. The brickwork and slate roof tell a tale. The sturdy construction reflects its purpose. It was built to withstand the elements. It had to endure the constant presence of water. The cottage’s resilience is a testament to its craftsmanship. The original half-height timber walls once stood. They eventually gave way to modern safety regulations.
Today New Haw Lock Cottage remains a local landmark. It is a Grade II listed building. It represents a bygone era. It stands as a symbol of the importance of the Wey Navigation. It embodies the quiet perseverance of a structure that survived disaster. A visit here is a journey through time. It’s a chance to connect with a piece of living history. You will appreciate its quiet dignity and enduring presence.