Writ in Water
A serene art installation in Runnymede, offering a unique reflective experience amidst historical meadows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience total silence
Writ in Water
Best Time
Experience total silence
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene art installation in Runnymede, offering a unique reflective experience amidst historical meadows.
"An absolutely stunning place; a mesmerising work of art."
🤫 Seek Solitude
Visit on a weekday or off-season for a truly meditative experience with minimal crowds.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry is free, but be prepared for parking charges in the designated areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Reflecting Pool
The central art installation
A mesmerizing work of art where text is reflected in water, creating a tranquil and meditative space.
Magna Carta Meadows
Surrounding Runnymede
Explore the historic meadows where the Magna Carta was sealed, offering scenic walks and a connection to history.
Riverside Walks
Along the River Thames
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Thames, with opportunities for boat trips and dog-friendly outings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dear Norther Surrey! A writer from Finland looking for help – Could anyone near Magna Carta have a word?
🤫 Seek Solitude
Visit on a weekday or off-season for a truly meditative experience with minimal crowds.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry is free, but be prepared for parking charges in the designated areas.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friend along for the walk; dogs are welcome and can even enjoy special treats!
🛥️ Consider a Boat Trip
Take a cruise up the river for a different perspective and a stop at the pleasure grounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Seek Solitude
Visit on a weekday or off-season for a truly meditative experience with minimal crowds.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry is free, but be prepared for parking charges in the designated areas.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friend along for the walk; dogs are welcome and can even enjoy special treats!
🛥️ Consider a Boat Trip
Take a cruise up the river for a different perspective and a stop at the pleasure grounds.
📸 Capture the Art
The reflective text makes for unique and artistic photos, especially during calm weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Writ in Water is lauded as a beautiful, aesthetic, and meditative art installation, offering a peaceful escape in the historic Runnymede meadows. Visitors appreciate its unique design and the tranquil atmosphere, especially when experienced without crowds. While parking has a fee, the free entry and the opportunity for scenic walks and historical exploration make it a highly recommended hidden gem. +1
"A lovly walk in the cold fresh sunshine , so lovly to see this place, love looking at words reflecting off the water"
julie o sullivan
"Very good for a peaceful walk in a lovely weather. Quite and atheistic"
Michael J
"The place is a hidden gem in Runnymede close to Egham. From outside it looks like a WW2 shelter but when walking inside it’s a beautiful piece of art. You can sit for few minutes and read the reflection of the text and enjoy the atmosphere. Highly recommended."
Roobik Eskandari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Writ in Water is located in Englefield Green, Egham TW20 0YU. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. It's also accessible via public transport, with local bus routes serving the area.
Yes, parking is available near Writ in Water, but it is a paid service.
Absolutely! It's part of the beautiful Runnymede meadows, perfect for a scenic walk.
Driving is convenient, but trains to Egham station are also an option, followed by a short bus ride or taxi.
Yes, local bus services operate in the Egham area, providing access to Runnymede. Check local timetables for specific routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Writ in Water art installation itself is free.
Writ in Water is typically open seven days a week, but it's best to check for any seasonal variations or specific event closures.
The meadows of Runnymede are generally free to access, but parking fees do apply.
Tickets for the cruise boat can usually be bought directly on the boat. Trips run hourly and can drop you off at the pleasure grounds.
Yes, you can easily spend 15-30 minutes reflecting at the installation, or longer if you explore the surrounding meadows.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light. Calm weather is crucial for clear reflections.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national trust areas and near historical sites. It's best to check local regulations.
Focus on the reflective text, the interplay of light and water, and the serene atmosphere.
It can get busy, especially on weekends. Visiting during off-peak hours will give you more space for photography.
Tripods are usually permitted in public spaces, but be mindful of other visitors, especially during busy times.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
It's a contemporary art installation in Runnymede, featuring text reflected in a pool, designed for quiet contemplation.
Explore the historic Magna Carta meadows, enjoy riverside walks, visit the nearby boathouse cafe, or take a boat trip.
Yes, it's described as a hidden gem perfect for a quiet and aesthetic walk, especially in good weather.
You can spend a short time reflecting (15-30 mins) or extend your visit by exploring the surrounding historical sites and nature.
There's a boathouse cafe nearby offering refreshments and facilities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with a boat trip on the Thames, which is often a hit with younger visitors. The boathouse cafe nearby provides a convenient spot for snacks and facilities. While the art installation itself is about quiet reflection, the broader Runnymede area offers plenty of space for active play and discovery.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Contemplatives
This is a place to disconnect and recharge. Bring a book, enjoy the silence, and let the art and history of Runnymede inspire you. The lack of crowds during weekdays makes it perfect for those who appreciate solitude and a deeper connection with their surroundings.
🐶 Dog Owners
Many visitors mention bringing their dogs, and some even note that doggy ice cream is available on boat trips. This makes it a truly enjoyable outing for both you and your furry friend, combining scenic beauty with pet-friendly amenities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Reflection: Understanding Writ in Water
The artwork is intentionally designed to be a place of peace, often described as a 'hidden gem' by visitors. Its minimalist design, resembling a WW2 shelter from the outside, belies the serene beauty within. The experience is amplified when the water is still, allowing for clear reflections and a meditative atmosphere. Many visitors find it a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle, offering a moment of calm and introspection.
While the art itself is free to experience, the surrounding area offers further exploration. The Magna Carta meadows are steeped in history, and a walk along the River Thames provides scenic views. Combining a visit to Writ in Water with these activities can create a fulfilling day out, blending art, history, and nature.
Exploring Runnymede: History and Nature
Beyond its historical context, Runnymede is a beautiful natural landscape. The River Thames flows through the meadows, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and picturesque views. For those with dogs, it's an ideal spot for a run and play. The presence of a boathouse cafe nearby adds to the convenience, providing refreshments and a place to rest.
Visitors can also opt for a boat trip on the Thames, which offers a different perspective of the landscape and can include a stop at the pleasure grounds. This blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational activities makes Runnymede a compelling destination for a day trip, with Writ in Water serving as a unique artistic focal point within this rich environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit