In 1873 Thomas Tagg opened a hotel here and the island became known as Taggs Island, and was surrounded by luxurious houseboats. There were many famous residents, including J.M.Barrie author of Peter Pan, and eventually the Island was owned by Fred Karno. Karno was the showman and impresario credited with discovering Charlie Chaplin, and Laurel and Hardy. In 1913 he built a magnificent hotel on the island which he named The Karsino and the Island has retained its 'showbiz' links to this day.

Mike Foster has compiled an excellent history of the stretch of river from Hampton Court to Sunbury lock which includes Taggs Island - HERE and HERE

There is a superb website with a very detailed history of Molesey and the River Thames that includes a chapter on Taggs Island at www.moleseyhistory.co.uk. The whole site is full of wonderful information on the area and well worth a visit.

Dave Raven, an island resident of 25 years has a brief history HERE