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Parks #3 in Virginia Water

Runnymede Pleasure Ground

4.5 · 2,415 reviews
Relaxed, recreational riverside park.
Runnymede Pleasure Ground, Windsor Rd, Egham TW20 0AE, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The grounds are situated within the historic meadow where King John signed the Magna Carta in 1215.

2

The park provides one of the few designated public slipways for launching small boats onto this stretch of the Thames.

3

It is distinct from, but adjacent to, the Magna Carta Memorial and the JFK Memorial, which are managed by the National Trust.

4

The park features a traditional Victorian-style bandstand used for seasonal public performances.

5

The area is prone to seasonal flooding due to its low-lying position directly adjacent to the River Thames.

Overview

Runnymede Pleasure Ground is a riverside park situated on the banks of the River Thames near Egham. The site provides public access to a managed stretch of the riverbank, featuring open green space, a children's play area, and a cafe. It serves as a recreational access point to the broader Runnymede meadow landscape, where the Magna Carta was historically sealed in 1215. The grounds are maintained by the Runnymede Borough Council and provide amenities including public restrooms and formal picnic areas. The park is geographically distinct from the National Trust-managed memorial sites located further along the same road, though they share the same historical context. It is a common destination for river-based leisure activities and family outings.

Photo spot

The riverbank view looking towards the wooded slopes of Cooper's Hill.

Insider tips

Bring waterproof footwear if visiting during winter or spring, as the meadow can become boggy after rainfall.

Park in the designated long-stay area to avoid congestion during peak summer weekends.

Check local river levels online before visiting if heavy rain has occurred, as flood warnings can lead to temporary closures.

What to avoid

Attempting to park on the verge of the main Windsor Road, which is strictly prohibited and frequently patrolled; visiting during high-flood periods.

Good to know

The park may close or restrict access to certain meadows during periods of high river flooding.

Etiquette

Keep dogs under control, especially near the river edge; follow 'Leave No Trace' principles for litter; designated zones for BBQs must be respected.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in late spring or early autumn to avoid heavy crowds and family weekend traffic.
Address
Runnymede Pleasure Ground, Windsor Rd, Egham TW20 0AE, United Kingdom
51.442, -0.551
Get directions
Details
AmenitiesChildren's play area, public cafe, boat slipway, and picnic benches.
LandscapeFlat, riverside meadowland with mature trees and maintained grass.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in late spring or early autumn to avoid heavy crowds and family weekend traffic..

The riverbank view looking towards the wooded slopes of Cooper's Hill.

Close by you'll find National Trust - Runnymede, Windsor Castle, Thorpe Park.