Runnymede Pleasure Ground - Image 1
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Runnymede Meadow

4.5
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic riverside meadow offering scenic walks, picnics, and a connection to the Magna Carta.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Runnymede Pleasure Ground - Image 1

Runnymede Meadow

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic riverside meadow offering scenic walks, picnics, and a connection to the Magna Carta.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Lovely walk along the river in the sun, and a nice cup of coffee from the cafe there."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Secure Your Parking Spot

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the car park fills up. Remember it locks at 8 PM! :car:

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic by the river. Plenty of space for everyone! :picnic_table:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverside Stroll

Riverside Stroll

Along the River Thames

Enjoy a relaxing walk by the Thames, taking in scenic views and the gentle flow of the river.

Magna Carta Memorial

Magna Carta Memorial

Near the river

A significant historical site commemorating the Magna Carta, offering a moment of reflection.

Queen Elizabeth II Statue

Queen Elizabeth II Statue

On the meadow

A poignant tribute to the late Queen, adding a touch of royal presence to the landscape.

Children's Playground

Children's Playground

Near the cafe

A fun and safe space for kids to play, complete with ice cream and drinks nearby.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Runnymede Meadow is popular, especially on sunny weekends. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the tranquility before crowds build. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere. Be aware that the car park locks at 8 PM, so plan your departure accordingly.

Parking and Amenities

All-day parking is available for a fee (cash or card accepted), but note the 8 PM lock-out time. The meadow offers a cafe, toilets, and a children's playground. An ice cream van often visits around lunchtime, adding to the family-friendly appeal.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Perfect for picnics & river activities
Crowd
High
When
Late spring/early summer
Why
Pleasant weather, blooming nature
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Writ in Water is a circular building, emerging from the hillside at the base of Cooper’s Hill. The meadow it sits within is flanked by the River Thames on one side, and an ox-bow lake on the other. Responding to this feature of the landscape, Writ in Water takes its name from the inscription on John Keats’ gravestone, which reads: ‘Here lies one whose name was writ in water’. An exterior doorway ...
hollytreenity
0 likes • 4K views

🚗 Secure Your Parking Spot

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the car park fills up. Remember it locks at 8 PM! :car:

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic by the river. Plenty of space for everyone! :picnic_table:

Historic meadow in Runnymede. Interesting facts of Magna Carta and the laws.
vandana_venu_shyam
12 likes • 186 views
Join us this May to enjoy the meadow at Runnymede. Pick up a spotters sheet from our tea room, make and launch seed bombs every Saturday and come on a guided walk with one of our habitat monitor volunteers. See website for more details. #NoMowMay #meadowwonders #wildflowers #pollinators
runnymedent
34 likes • 597 views

🚶‍♀️ River Walk Essentials

Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the riverside paths and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

🍦 Treat Yourself

Look out for the ice cream van or grab a refreshment from the cafe/pavilion. :icecream:

Explore the history at Runnymede, Berkshire ✨ From the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 to memorials honoring JFK and fallen WWII airmen, this riverside meadow is packed with powerful stories. Wander through: • The Magna Carta Memorial • JFK Memorial • The Jurors art installation • Air Forces Memorial • Cooper’s Hill Woods Perfect for peaceful walks by the river ❤️ #Runnymede #Berkshire #Magn...
casabygrace
15 likes • 386 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Secure Your Parking Spot

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the car park fills up. Remember it locks at 8 PM! :car:

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic by the river. Plenty of space for everyone! :picnic_table:

🚶‍♀️ River Walk Essentials

Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the riverside paths and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

🍦 Treat Yourself

Look out for the ice cream van or grab a refreshment from the cafe/pavilion. :icecream:

🛥️ Boat Trip Adventure

Consider a French Brothers boat trip from Runnymede for a different perspective of the river. :ferry:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Runnymede Meadow for its beautiful riverside location, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. The historical significance of the Magna Carta site and the presence of family-friendly amenities like a playground and cafe are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally well-loved, some note the car park's strict 8 PM closing time.

"Lovely walk along the river in the sun, and a nice cup of coffee from the cafe there. I was there for the half way point of the 100km charity walk, a great place to stop. Some beautiful properties along side the river and some nice pubs a mile or so east along the river. Various Runnymeade / Magna Carta sights within easy walking. Car parking all day for £7 but is locked at 8pm so don't get caught out or you'll be stuck until the following day."

D. M.C

"Great place for visiting for a walk on your own, a couple (date), or family with kids. There is plenty of parking, and the parking is payable(cash or card), though I will add a photo of the prices.
The canal runs by, so it's very relaxing for a walk or just have some food and chill. There is a place to buy food, however, I did not visit so don't know what's like. Also, there was an ice cream van that turned up around lunchtime. The pavilion where the kids playground is selling ice cream and drinks."

Bogomil Rashkov

"Lovely park by the Thames River near Egham and the Magna Carta.
Perfect for picnics, kayaking, paddleboarding, rowing, jogging, etc. Huge car park. Toilets. Cafe. Play area. Lots of trees for shade. Ice cream van (including doggy ice cream)
Wheelchair and dog friendly.... very popular on hot & sunny weekends & holidays.
I love it there. Very friendly & family vibe"

EVE Cowell

What People Like

Beautiful riverside setting
Picnic and relaxation spot
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Car park locks at 8 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Runnymede Meadow is accessible by car, with a large car park available. It's also reachable by public transport, though services might be less frequent. Check local bus routes for options.

Yes, there is a large car park available for all-day parking. Payment is accepted via cash or card. Be mindful of the 8 PM closing time to avoid being locked in. Reddit

Cycling is a great way to reach Runnymede Meadow, especially if you're coming from nearby towns. There are often cycle racks available, though it's wise to bring your own lock.

The meadow is generally wheelchair friendly, with paved paths along the river. The open space allows for easy navigation for those with mobility aids. Reddit

The nearest train stations are Egham and Virginia Water. From these stations, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Runnymede Meadow.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to access Runnymede Meadow itself. However, parking does incur a charge, typically around £7 for all-day parking. Reddit

Runnymede Meadow is an open public space and is generally accessible during daylight hours. The car park, however, has specific opening and closing times, locking at 8 PM. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for entry to Runnymede Meadow. It's a public park. Parking fees are paid on arrival.

Yes, dogs are very welcome at Runnymede Meadow. It's a great place for them to explore, and there are even doggy ice creams available! Reddit

Facilities include a cafe, public toilets, a children's playground, and ample space for picnics. An ice cream van often visits during peak times. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy picnics, walking, jogging, kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowing. It's also a great spot for relaxing by the river and visiting historical sites like the Magna Carta Memorial. Reddit

Absolutely! With a playground, open spaces for running, and the river for gentle exploration, it's a fantastic family destination. The cafe and ice cream van are also big hits with kids. Reddit

Yes, the River Thames at Runnymede is suitable for kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowing. Ensure you have the appropriate equipment and safety measures in place. Reddit

Runnymede is historically significant as the site where King John of England met his barons and agreed to the Magna Carta in 1215, a foundational document for constitutional law. Reddit

The riverside views, the Magna Carta Memorial, and the Queen Elizabeth II Statue offer excellent photographic opportunities. The open meadow itself is also picturesque, especially during golden hour.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is an onsite cafe that serves food and drinks. It's a convenient spot to grab a bite or a coffee during your visit. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a range of light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a good option for a casual lunch or refreshment. Reddit

The entire meadow is essentially a picnic area! There are no designated picnic tables, but plenty of open grassy space to spread out a blanket and enjoy your own food. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is highly encouraged and a popular activity at Runnymede Meadow. Reddit

Yes, an ice cream van often visits the meadow around lunchtime, and the pavilion also sells ice cream and drinks. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Runnymede Meadow is a fantastic destination for families. The children's playground is a major draw, offering a safe and fun space for kids to burn off energy. Nearby, you'll find a cafe and often an ice cream van, perfect for treating the little ones. Reddit The open grassy areas are ideal for picnics and games, and the gentle riverside is great for supervised exploration. Remember to bring a blanket and some snacks for a perfect family outing. The accessibility also makes it easy for families with strollers or younger children. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful escape, Runnymede Meadow offers a serene environment. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the River Thames, taking in the picturesque scenery and the historical ambiance. Reddit It's an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, reading a book, or simply enjoying the tranquility. The nearby cafe provides a pleasant spot for a coffee or light lunch, and the historical sites offer points of interest without being overwhelming. Consider visiting on a weekday for an even more tranquil experience. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Runnymede Meadow is a dog-friendly paradise! Your canine companions will love the ample space to run and explore the open fields and riverside paths. Reddit It's a great place for them to stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors. Remember to keep them under control near the river and other visitors. The availability of ice cream, including doggy ice cream, is a fun bonus for your furry friend! Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Runnymede

Runnymede Meadow is not just a beautiful riverside spot; it's a place steeped in history. It is most famously known as the site where King John of England met his rebellious barons in 1215 and agreed to the Magna Carta. This charter of rights is considered a cornerstone of constitutional law, influencing legal systems worldwide. Visitors can see the Magna Carta Memorial, a solemn monument commemorating this pivotal event. The meadow also holds more recent historical significance, with the Queen Elizabeth II Statue adding a contemporary touch to the landscape. Reddit

Beyond these key landmarks, the area around Runnymede has been a place of importance for centuries. Its strategic location on the River Thames made it a natural gathering point. The open expanse of the meadow itself evokes a sense of timelessness, allowing visitors to connect with the past while enjoying the present. It’s a place where history feels palpable, making a visit both relaxing and educational. Reddit

Activities and Recreation by the Thames

Runnymede Meadow is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities centered around the River Thames. The wide, calm stretches of the river make it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowing. Many visitors bring their own equipment to enjoy these water sports, taking advantage of the accessible riverbanks. The gentle current makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers looking for a peaceful excursion. Reddit

For those who prefer to stay on land, the meadow provides ample space for picnics, jogging, and leisurely walks. The riverside paths are well-maintained and offer scenic views, making them perfect for a relaxing stroll or a more vigorous run. Families often gather here for picnics, with children enjoying the open space and the nearby playground. The presence of a cafe and an ice cream van further enhances the visitor experience, providing convenient options for refreshments. Reddit

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