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Magna Carta Memorial

4.5
·993 reviews·Old Windsor, United Kingdom

Historic Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was sealed, offering a blend of significant history, art, and riverside beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful.

CrowdLow
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Runnymede 1

Magna Carta Memorial

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was sealed, offering a blend of significant history, art, and riverside beauty.

4.5
(993 reviews)

"So beautiful and so much history! A great stop to get out in nature, stretch your legs and learn some history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Advice

The main car park is small; alternative parking is available across the road. :car:

☕ Cafe Costs

The riverside cafe is a bit pricey, but it helps fund the upkeep of this historic site. :moneywithwings:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Magna Carta Memorial

Magna Carta Memorial

Runnymede

The iconic memorial marking the site where the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215.

JFK Monument

JFK Monument

Runnymede

A poignant monument dedicated to President John F. Kennedy, offering scenic views.

Art Installations

Art Installations

Runnymede

Discover magnificent sculptures like The Jurors and Willow Sculptures scattered across the meadows.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for History Buffs

Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the historical significance of Runnymede. Consider the weather for an enjoyable riverside experience.

Embrace the Riverside Charm

The Magna Carta Memorial is part of a larger riverside landscape. Allow time for leisurely walks, exploring art installations, and enjoying the natural beauty.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful.
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Perfect for riverside walks.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Runnymede - Egham, Surrey, England - – home of the Magna Carta, the contemplative Writ in Water, and the solemn JFK Memorial - #Runnymede #MagnaCarta #WritInWater #JFKMemorial #KingJohn #EnglishHistory
lstraubb
139 likes • 1.5K views

🚗 Parking Advice

The main car park is small; alternative parking is available across the road. :car:

☕ Cafe Costs

The riverside cafe is a bit pricey, but it helps fund the upkeep of this historic site. :moneywithwings:

✨Today we’re stepping back into history at the Magna Carta Memorial. As we gather here, take a moment to listen carefully to the powerful words that have shaped freedom and justice for centuries ✨ Please listen - it is beautiful!
steptogether_community
17 likes • 442 views
The Magna Carta Memorial ✅ #magnacarta #optimusprime #autobotsassemble #surrey
akweteyjr
20 likes • 270 views

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Walks

Enjoy a lovely walk along the Thames after exploring the memorials and art. :walking:

📜 Historical Significance

Learn about the 1215 Magna Carta, a foundational document for Western freedom. :scroll:

These large trunks are sections of the Magna Carta Memorial oak tree that fell down back in 2015. We were keen to find a purpose for this magnificent oak and delighted to announce that we will be creating new seating, gates and other items from this wonderful piece of wood as part of our Runnymede Explored project. We have commissioned master carver, Hugh Wedderburn and cabinet maker, @simonkiddfu...
runnymedent
85 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Advice

The main car park is small; alternative parking is available across the road. :car:

☕ Cafe Costs

The riverside cafe is a bit pricey, but it helps fund the upkeep of this historic site. :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Walks

Enjoy a lovely walk along the Thames after exploring the memorials and art. :walking:

📜 Historical Significance

Learn about the 1215 Magna Carta, a foundational document for Western freedom. :scroll:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(993 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Magna Carta Memorial for its profound historical significance and beautiful riverside setting, highlighting the art installations and peaceful atmosphere. While the tearoom is a nice amenity, some find it a bit pricey. The small car park can also be a minor inconvenience.

"We visited here with our family in June, beautiful day and great location we had a picnic in the park then travelled on the boat to view the magma arts site, some amazing art work really worth the trip, boat ride was great take some bread to feed the ducks."

Pheno_Local guide

"This is a Must Visit English Heritage Site from where all of the Western Freedom Documents originate-
The 1215 Magna Carta,
King John's Royal Charter & Promise to The English Barons of England, was signed at Runnymede-

The Willow Art & Kennedy Monument are fantastic as well as The Jurors & Willow Sculptures art installations are magnificent!

They have a lovely Tea Room & Boat Tour as well as a Thames Riverside walking trail :)"

Shelley K Booker

"We went with friends who were visiting and it was a really good day out. Lovely walks around, and plenty to explore. The cafe was perfect for an ice cream, which was enjoyed by the river. Carpark was small, but I think there is alternative parking across the road."

Gemma Boggs

What People Like

Historical significance
Beautiful riverside walks
Art installations

What People Dislike

Expensive cafe
Small car park

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Magna Carta Memorial is located at Runnymede. It's accessible by car, with a small car park on-site and alternative parking nearby. Public transport options might require a bus connection from a local train station.

Yes, there is a car park directly next to the memorial. However, it can be small, so be prepared for potential alternatives across the road if it's full. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Magna Carta Memorial and the surrounding Runnymede meadows is generally free, as it's an outdoor historical site. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep. Reddit

As an outdoor memorial and parkland, the Magna Carta Memorial and Runnymede are typically accessible during daylight hours. The tearoom may have specific operating times.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the Magna Carta Memorial itself, the JFK Monument, and various art installations like 'The Jurors' and 'Willow Sculptures'. Enjoy riverside walks along the Thames and picnic in the meadows. Reddit

Absolutely! Runnymede is a beautiful meadow, making it a perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day. Reddit

Yes, Runnymede features several magnificent art installations, including 'The Jurors' and 'Willow Sculptures', adding a contemporary artistic dimension to the historical site. Reddit

Yes, there are often boat tours available from the Runnymede area, offering a different perspective of the Thames and its surroundings.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a tearoom located by the river, offering refreshments and ice cream. While convenient, it can be a bit expensive. Reddit

Besides the on-site tearoom, there are likely pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages of Egham or Old Windsor for more varied dining experiences.

📸 📸 Photography

The Magna Carta Memorial itself, the JFK Monument with its views, and the various art installations offer great photographic opportunities. The riverside also provides scenic backdrops. Reddit

Yes, the riverside landscape, meadows, and willow trees make it a beautiful location for nature photography, especially during different seasons.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Runnymede offers a great outdoor experience for families. The open meadows are perfect for kids to run around and have a picnic. Reddit The art installations can spark curiosity, and the historical context of the Magna Carta can be introduced in an age-appropriate way. The riverside walk is pleasant, and the tearoom provides a treat like ice cream. Reddit Consider bringing a frisbee or ball for extra fun in the open spaces.

🚶‍♀️ History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, Runnymede is a pilgrimage site. You can stand on the very ground where the Magna Carta was sealed, a document that shaped Western legal traditions. Reddit Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect on the significance of this event. The JFK Monument also adds another layer of historical interest. Reddit

🎨 Art Lovers

The presence of contemporary art installations like 'The Jurors' and 'Willow Sculptures' adds a modern appeal to the historical significance of Runnymede. Reddit These pieces are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, offering a unique blend of art, history, and nature. They provide excellent opportunities for photography and contemplation.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Runnymede

Runnymede is a site of immense historical importance, most famously as the location where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215. This charter is considered a cornerstone of liberty and constitutional law in the Western world, influencing countless subsequent documents and legal systems. The Magna Carta Memorial, a circular temple, stands as a tribute to this pivotal moment in history. Reddit

Beyond the Magna Carta, Runnymede also holds significance for its connection to President John F. Kennedy. The JFK Monument, a granite memorial, was erected in his memory and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area's rich history makes it a compelling destination for anyone interested in the evolution of democracy and freedom. Reddit

Exploring the Art and Nature at Runnymede

The Magna Carta Memorial site is not just about history; it's also a beautiful natural landscape dotted with striking art installations. Visitors often praise the 'The Jurors' sculpture, a series of figures representing the barons who witnessed the sealing of the Magna Carta, and the elegant 'Willow Sculptures'. These contemporary pieces add a unique artistic dimension to the historical setting, creating a visually engaging experience. Reddit

The Thames riverside walking trail offers a chance to connect with nature. The meadows are ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the riverside. On a sunny day, the combination of history, art, and natural beauty makes Runnymede a truly blissful place to visit. Reddit

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