The artists, craftsmen and designers who work from the Eel Pie Artists' Studios are to throw open their doors this weekend for a rare opportunity to celebrate and demonstrate their work.

In the 1960s, Eel Pie Island, Twickenham, was at the heart of a musical revolution as bands from the Rolling Stones to the Who and Pink Floyd performed some of their very earliest gigs.

Today, it is magnet for craftsmen and the arts with a collection of artists who create much-admired work from bespoke pieces of jewellery to fine art, ceramics, glass work, sculpture, cartoons and more.

The island is private and visitors are normally not allowed, however twice a year, usually in early July and early December, the studios are opened up to the public.

A spokesman for the event this coming weekend – December 4-5 – said: "Today, the island is home to the only working boatyard on the tidal Thames and river craft of all types come here for maintenance.

"It recovered from a devastating fire in 1996 and the bohemian quarter containing a variety of artist studios continues to thrive here.

"This determinedly quirky fragment of creative London flourishes mid-river, at a time when such character is fading from the immaculate corporate city.

"Thanks to the graciousness of the private residents who live on the island, we will open up our studios to the public so that you can view inside a working studio and browse, purchase or commission unique works of art."

Among the studios opening their doors will be Mill & Way, which is a sponsor of Twickenham Nub News, the bespoke jewellery business founded by Abi Hollaway and Natalie Cole. The team chose Eel Pie Island over other options such as Wimbledon and Kingston.

Mill & Way will be opening up their workshop in the boat yard area to give the community a real insight into how their jewellery is made and the level of love and care that goes into making personalised, high end pieces.

The studios will be open 11.00 am - 5.00 pm both days. Covid precautions will be in place. Be aware that high tide is due at 2pm on Saturday and at 3pm on Sunday, so visitors may need wellies to access the riverside and reach the island.

Visit the website here.