Sonning Eye is a distinct hamlet, separated from the village of Sonning in Berkshire by the River Thames. Early man is believed to have settled in the flat expense of fertile water meadows at Sonning Eye, and a number of archaeological finds have been recovered from the district. Aerial surveys have recorded traces of an ancient Anglo Saxon processional way or cursus in the fields to the east of the settlement.
The hamlet includes more than a dozen grade two listed cottages and barns and is designated as a Conservation Area.
Sonning Mill was mentioned in the Domesday Book and today is home to the award winning Mill at Sonning Theatre (www.millatsonning.com). Inclusive tickets provide dinner in the restaurant and professional theatre, with an emphasis on popular thrillers and romantic comedies. There is also a programme of Sunday Jazz performances.
The French Horn Hotel (www.thefrenchhorn.co.uk) offers a sophisticated dining experience overlooking the floodlit river. Luxury rooms include a group of converted mill workers' cottages.
The Flowering Shrub pub serves Fullers ales and is beside the source of a chalk spring, which was once believed to offer a cure for eye ailments. An attractive footpath takes walkers north from the A4155 towards Binfield Heath, and is featured in many walkers' guides. Further paths lead on to Shiplake and the towpath, making an attractive circular walk of approximately 5 miles.
To the west of Sonning Eye, along the river Thames lie several worked out gravel pits. These provide a home to the Reading Sailing Club (www.readingsc.org.uk) and the Isis Water-Ski Club. They are also popular with members of the Reading & District Angling Association.
The nearest church is St Andrew's, Sonning (in which ecclesiastical parish Sonning Eye is located). Here will also be found a pub, Post Office, village store and teashop.
More information can be found on the Parish Council's website : www.eyedunsden.org.
