
Discover more at Runnymede and Ankerwycke
Find out how to get to Runnymede and Ankerwycke, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Walk, picnic or just relax by the river – with its meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and accessible stretches of the Thames, Runnymede is a great place to reconnect with nature. The site of the historic signing of the Magna Carta is also home to poignant memorials and arresting artworks reflecting on democracy and freedom. Across the river at Ankerwycke, you’ll discover the remains of a Benedictine priory and the oldest tree in the National Trust’s care.
With flower-filled meadows, lush wetlands, ancient woodlands and historic parkland – plus views worth the climb – the countryside at Runnymede is the perfect place to get back to nature.
The Anglo-Saxon ‘Runemede’ means ‘meeting meadow’. For centuries known as a place for people to come together, today these meadows remain a pretty, open space for countryside walks. On a summer's day, look out for a dazzling array of wildflowers, buzzing with insects, birds and other wildlife.
Over 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons in these very fields. It was here he signed the Magna Carta, seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy.
In this spirit, Runnymede is home to several memorials recognising the ongoing struggle for liberty.
This monument to the historic signing of the Magna Carta was designed by Sir Edward Maufe and erected in 1957 by the American Bar Association in appreciation of the Magna Carta’s role in founding the rule of law.
This newly resurfaced stretch of the Thames Path is now fully accessible for all visitors. It's a great place to walk, cycle or simply relax on a riverside bench with a book or a picnic.
There's plenty for wildlife fans to enjoy, too – look out for kingfishers, ducks, geese and swans, and a host of different butterflies.
As you walk around Runnymede, you’ll come across a number of artworks by world renowned and award-winning artists.
Set in the heart of this historic landscape, this architectural artwork by Mark Wallinger and Studio Octopi reflects upon the founding principles of democracy and provides visitors with a space for quiet contemplation.
On the opposite bank of the Thames is Ankerwycke, whose ancient woodland, fields and ponds are steeped in history.
This gnarled and ancient tree is the oldest cared for by the National Trust and is thought to have stood here for as long as 2,500 years.
As well as being a valuable habitat for invertebrates, the yew is said to be the spot where King Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn.
Look out too for the clootie boards where visitors hang strips of cloth carrying prayers.
Ankerwycke is home to the ruins of St Mary’s Priory, a Benedictine nunnery built during the reign of Henry II and dedicated to St Mary Magdalene.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the surviving building fell into disrepair, and today only a few walls remain.
There’s plenty of wildlife to look out for at Ankerwycke. Listen for the loud, laughing calls of the green woodpeckers, or see if you can spot them feeding on insects in the woods.
Emerald and large red dragonflies are often visible darting between the ponds. And in spring, the ground is carpeted with snowdrops, thought to have been planted here in Victorian times.
There are limited parking spaces at Ankerwyke. If the car park is full, please come back when it's quieter.
Note that access is always required along Magna Carta Lane, for emergency vehicles and residents.
Find out how to get to Runnymede and Ankerwycke, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Twelve intricately carved bronze chairs celebrate the endurance of Magna Carta at Runnymede. Discover the artwork and its inspiration here.
Reflect upon the history of Runnymede inside this immersive architectural installation, which celebrates the sealing of Magna Carta at Runnymede over 800 years ago.
Learn about the historic sealing of the Magna Carta, a medieval priory, an ancient tree where Henry VIII wooed Anne Boleyn – and the site of a 1930s nightclub.
Delve into the history and significance of Runnymede’s varied landscape in this immersive audio tour.
Stay refreshed with hot and cold drinks, light meals, snacks and cakes in the Magna Carta tea-room at Runnymede.
Runnymede and Ankerwycke is a three pawprint rated place. Enjoy riverside walks and open countryside on a dog walk at Runnymede and Ankerwycke. Find out where dogs can explore and read the Canine Code.
Discover far-reaching views, quiet woodlands and an ancient Roman road at Finchampstead Ridges – a cluster of hidden gems nestled in the countryside of Berkshire.
Explore the wide array of countryside settings around Surrey, from tranquil waterways to landscaped parkland, and plenty of hills to climb.