In 1868 Twickenham was described as a junction station on the Windsor section of the London and South-Western railway, where the Thames Valley branches off. Its ancient name was Twittanham, Twicknam, and Twit'nam, referring to its situation between two streams or brooks that flow into the Thames at either end of the village, which occupies a site on the road from London, through Isleworth to Hampton Court. It has long been considered one of the most beautiful spots in the vicinity of the metropolis, with its romantic scenery, enlivened by the windings of the Thames and embellished with seats and villas.