Leptis Magna Ruins Virginia Water
Ancient Roman ruins from Leptis Magna, Libya, now a unique historical sight nestled by the scenic Virginia Water Lake in Surrey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enhances the beauty of the lake
Leptis Magna Ruins Virginia Water
Best Time
Enhances the beauty of the lake
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Roman ruins from Leptis Magna, Libya, now a unique historical sight nestled by the scenic Virginia Water Lake in Surrey.
"A fascinating piece of ancient Rome unexpectedly found in the English countryside, offering unique photo ops."
Check Gate Access
Gates to the ruins are often closed. Manage expectations for close-up viewing. :informationdeskperson:
Cashless Parking
Virginia Water car parks are cashless. Be prepared for card payment and potentially high fees. :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Leptis Magna Ruins
Virginia Water Lake
Ancient Roman columns and stones, originally from Leptis Magna in Libya, now a unique sight in Surrey.
Virginia Water Lake Walk
Virginia Water Lake
A scenic 4-mile loop around the lake, offering beautiful views and a refreshing outdoor experience.
Cascade
Virginia Water Lake
An 18th-century water feature, adding to the historical charm of the Virginia Water pleasure grounds.
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Planning Your Visit
Access to the Ruins
Parking and Lake Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Gate Access
Gates to the ruins are often closed. Manage expectations for close-up viewing. +1 :informationdeskperson:
Cashless Parking
Virginia Water car parks are cashless. Be prepared for card payment and potentially high fees. :parking:
Read Up on History
Learn about Leptis Magna's journey to England for a richer visit. :books:
Photogenic Spot
The ruins offer unique photo opportunities, even from a distance. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Gate Access
Gates to the ruins are often closed. Manage expectations for close-up viewing. +1 :informationdeskperson:
Cashless Parking
Virginia Water car parks are cashless. Be prepared for card payment and potentially high fees. :parking:
Read Up on History
Learn about Leptis Magna's journey to England for a richer visit. :books:
Photogenic Spot
The ruins offer unique photo opportunities, even from a distance. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Lake Walk
The ruins are a point of interest on a lovely 4-mile walk around Virginia Water Lake. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Leptis Magna Ruins a fascinating and unexpected historical find within the beautiful setting of Virginia Water Lake. While many appreciate the unique photo opportunities and the historical intrigue, a common point of disappointment is the restricted access, with gates often closed, preventing close-up viewing and reading of information. The surrounding lake walk is consistently praised for its beauty and amenities.
"Fascinating Roman ruins originally from the Roman city of Leptis Magna, now situated in an easily accessible Surrey park. Unfortunately the gates have been closed for a few years, so it hasn't been possible to get up close and read the information boards. Nonetheless, the ruins are an unexpected sight at the edge of Virginia Water, making for some interesting photo opportunities."
Andrew Thomas
"A little piece of the Carthaginian (now Libyan) city of Leptis Magna now in Virginia Water. While these ruins are stunning, you can’t always get as close as you might like. Very photogenic though. Well worth reading up on the history of Leptis Magna and how a small piece made its way to England."
Paul Hill
"Nothing much to see here. its separated by fences not allowing public to access as they are fragile."
Ajay Raj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Leptis Magna Ruins are located within the grounds of Virginia Water Lake in Surrey, UK. You can reach Virginia Water by car, with several car parks available around the lake, though note they are cashless and can be expensive. Public transport options include train to Virginia Water station, followed by a walk or local bus.
Yes, there are multiple car parks around Virginia Water Lake. The largest is on the east side. Be aware that these car parks are cashless and can charge a significant fee for parking, even for short visits.
Virginia Water train station is a short distance from the lake. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the lake's edge where the ruins are situated.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific ticket required to see the Leptis Magna Ruins themselves, as they are part of the public Virginia Water Lake grounds. However, you will need to pay for parking if arriving by car.
While the grounds of Virginia Water Lake are generally accessible, the specific area of the Leptis Magna Ruins has been gated off for several years, limiting close-up access and the ability to read information boards. +1
Virginia Water Lake is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, access to specific areas like the Leptis Magna Ruins may be restricted by gates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Unfortunately, due to the fragile nature of the ruins, they are often behind fences or gates, preventing visitors from getting very close. +1 This means you might not be able to read the information boards up close.
Virginia Water Lake offers a beautiful 4-mile walking path, scenic views, a cascade, and opportunities for photography. There are also cafes and food vans around the lake.
The walk around Virginia Water Lake is generally considered easy to moderate, with a mostly flat path. It's a popular spot for joggers and walkers.
Yes, there are cafes, ice cream trucks, and food vans dotted around the lake, as well as restrooms available for visitors.
Absolutely! The Leptis Magna Ruins, even from a distance, provide a unique and photogenic backdrop, especially with the natural setting of Virginia Water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
The Leptis Magna Ruins add a unique historical element to the natural beauty, making it a more engaging walk. 📸 Photographers
The wider Virginia Water Lake area also offers plenty of scenic shots, from reflections on the water to the cascade and surrounding greenery. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Leptis Magna in Surrey
They were transported to England in the early 19th century, intended for a grand estate, but ultimately ended up at Virginia Water. +1This relocation makes them a unique historical artifact, offering a tangible link to the Roman Empire's vast reach. While they may not be in their original context, their presence in Surrey sparks curiosity about ancient trade, imperial ambitions, and the movement of historical objects.
Despite the current restrictions on close access, the visual impact of these weathered stones against the backdrop of Virginia Water remains compelling. They serve as a quiet reminder of a distant past, an unexpected piece of North African history nestled within a popular English park.
Experiencing Virginia Water Lake
On a sunny day, the lake is particularly stunning, reflecting the sky and surrounding greenery.
Beyond the natural beauty, the lake area is equipped with amenities to enhance the visitor experience. You'll find cafes, ice cream vendors, and food trucks offering refreshments, making it easy to spend a few hours or even a full day here.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit