Runnymede
Historic meadow on the River Thames where the Magna Carta was sealed, offering memorials, riverside walks, and picnic spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Runnymede
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic meadow on the River Thames where the Magna Carta was sealed, offering memorials, riverside walks, and picnic spots.
"A peaceful riverside spot steeped in history, perfect for picnics and reflection."
🚗 Parking Fees
Free for National Trust members, otherwise hourly charges apply. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Riverside Strolls
Enjoy walks along the Thames path and watch the boats go by. :boat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Magna Carta Memorial
Near the cafe
A solemn monument commemorating the sealing of the Magna Carta in 1215, a cornerstone of liberty.
JFK Memorial
Overlooking the Thames
A poignant tribute to President John F. Kennedy, gifted by the American Bar Association.
Riverside Walks & Picnics
Along the River Thames
Enjoy serene walks by the Thames, watch boats, and have a delightful picnic in this peaceful meadow.
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Planning Your Visit
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Beyond the Magna Carta
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Free for National Trust members, otherwise hourly charges apply. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Riverside Strolls
Enjoy walks along the Thames path and watch the boats go by. :boat:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Ideal spot for a picnic with beautiful views. Bring your own food! :sandwich:
🏛️ Historical Context
Scan QR codes for recordings to deepen your understanding of the Magna Carta. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Free for National Trust members, otherwise hourly charges apply. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Riverside Strolls
Enjoy walks along the Thames path and watch the boats go by. :boat:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Ideal spot for a picnic with beautiful views. Bring your own food! :sandwich:
🏛️ Historical Context
Scan QR codes for recordings to deepen your understanding of the Magna Carta. :iphone:
☕ Cafe Amenities
A National Trust cafe offers refreshments and toilets. Dog-friendly too! :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Runnymede for its peaceful riverside setting, historical significance, and suitability for family outings and picnics. The free entry and dog-friendly nature are also highlighted as positives. Some feel the historical interpretation could be deeper, but the memorials and natural beauty are generally well-received.
"An unusual, but interesting, collection of art works and memorials set into wild flower meadow and woodland but plenty of interpretation to put it into context. Engaging children's activities at Bank Holidays. Importantly a (small) NT tearoom and toilet"
Ian Jenkinson
"A lovely place to visit, we were lucky that there were some activities going on by the cafe. Plenty of parking and a lovely little cafe for drinks/ice cream that went down well. Very peaceful setting."
Donna Douglas
"This is where the Magna Carta was signed in 1215, and currently contains a few modern memorials, walking paths, and a cafe. It has some good information, but feel a little more history around the text of the document, how it came to be and what happened afterword would've been useful. There were a couple of signs, but given its significance could've gone a little deeper.
Facilities: The site is dog friendly, including the cafe. Toilets at the cafe are adequate.
Cost: Free to enter, though there is a cost for parking if not a National Trust member."
Becky T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Runnymede is accessible by car, with parking available (free for National Trust members). It's also reachable by bus from nearby towns like Egham. For those with longer layovers between Gatwick and Heathrow, it's a viable stopover point via public transport.
Yes, Runnymede is located a short distance from historic Windsor, making it convenient to combine visits.
While driving is common, public transport options exist, including buses from Egham. It's a good option for those looking to avoid central London traffic.
The postcode for Runnymede is TW20 0AG.
Yes, there is parking available at Runnymede. It is free for National Trust members; otherwise, an hourly fee applies.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Runnymede itself is free for everyone. However, parking charges apply if you are not a National Trust member.
No, tickets are not required for entry to Runnymede as it is a free public space.
Runnymede is an outdoor site and generally accessible during daylight hours. The National Trust cafe has specific operating times, typically 10 am to 4 pm.
Most of the area at Runnymede is suitable for wheelchair users, though the JFK memorial area may have some accessibility limitations.
Yes, Runnymede is a dog-friendly site, including the cafe area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Runnymede, you can see the Magna Carta Memorial, the JFK Memorial, enjoy riverside walks, have picnics, and explore modern art installations. There are also information boards and QR codes for historical context.
Runnymede is historically significant as the site where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215, a foundational document for constitutional law. 
Yes, engaging children's activities are often available, particularly during Bank Holidays. The paddling pool is also open daily from 10 am to 4 pm during summer months.
Boat trips are available on the River Thames next to the car park at Runnymede, though these are chargeable.
Facilities include a National Trust cafe, toilets, and ample parking.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a National Trust tea room and cafe located near the car park, offering drinks and ice cream.
Absolutely! Runnymede is a perfect spot for a picnic, with plenty of space and scenic views along the river.
The nearest dining options are typically found in the nearby town of Egham or at hotels like The Runnymede on Thames.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic Magna Carta Memorial, the serene JFK Memorial, and the picturesque views along the River Thames. The open meadow also offers great landscape shots.
Yes, the riverside setting and open meadow provide lovely opportunities for landscape photography, especially during golden hour.
Photography is generally permitted at the memorials for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful demeanor.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The paddling pool, open daily from 10 am to 4 pm during summer, is a big hit with younger children. Look out for special children's activities often held during Bank Holidays. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, though a cafe is available. 🚶♀️ History Buffs & Day-Trippers
The free entry and parking for National Trust members make it an accessible and rewarding outing.🌳 Nature Lovers & Picnickers
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Thames Path, observe the local wildlife, and simply relax amidst the natural beauty of the water meadow. The open fields and riverside access provide a refreshing escape.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magna Carta: A Cornerstone of Liberty
+1 While the original document is housed elsewhere, Runnymede commemorates this pivotal moment with a solemn memorial. Visitors can learn more about the Magna Carta's context and significance through interpretive boards and QR codes scattered across the site.
Exploring Runnymede's Riverside Charm
Watching the boats glide by on the river is a calming experience, and the open space makes it an ideal location for a family picnic. The Thames Path runs through Runnymede, offering walkers a chance to extend their journey and explore more of the riverside. The area is also known for its wildflower meadows and woodland, providing a pleasant environment for birdwatching and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
It’s a place where history meets nature, offering a refreshing break from urban life.Modern Tributes and Artistic Installations
Additionally, the site hosts various art installations that complement the historical narrative and natural landscape. These contemporary pieces add another dimension to the visitor experience, encouraging reflection and dialogue.
+1 The blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and modern art makes Runnymede a uniquely layered destination.
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