Magna Carta Memorial — Attraction in Borough of Runnymede

Visiting Runnymede is a powerful and peaceful experience for anyone interested in the roots of liberty and the rule of law. This is the very spot where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215, and today it’s a beautifully maintained and thoughtfully curated site.

The Magna Carta Memorial, erected by the American Bar Association, is an elegant domed structure that pays tribute to the enduring legacy of the charter. It’s simple yet moving, and highlights how far-reaching the document’s impact has been – especially in shaping modern democratic principles.

One of the highlights is The Jurors, a striking modern art installation by Hew Locke, which features 12 bronze chairs representing themes of justice and human rights. It encourages quiet reflection and conversation – a fitting tribute to the ideals the Magna Carta embodies.

There’s also a touching John F. Kennedy Memorial, set apart in a peaceful wooded glade. The journey up to it, via a winding path and symbolic steps, adds to its contemplative atmosphere.

The landscape itself – Runnymede Meadows by the River Thames – is tranquil and inspiring. With open fields, commemorative trees, and well-marked walking trails, it’s ideal for an unhurried visit. The National Trust has done an excellent job maintaining the site and providing information without overwhelming the natural setting.

This isn’t a flashy attraction, but that’s precisely the point. Runnymede invites you to slow down and reflect on the origins of rights and freedoms many of us take for granted. A must-visit for history lovers, law students, and anyone who appreciates the quiet...

A few miles outside of Egham is the national trust site that sits just off of the main road. You have the choice of two separate car parks on the left or right, both of which are free for national trust members. The car park on the left is next to the tea room, serving hot drinks and snacks at a reasonable price. The car park on the right is next to the river, On first inspection, there is a large field which you can walk around in, however, following the path to the back of it, will lead you further into the wooded area, which upon walking up the top of the hill via the steps accesses the John F Kennedy memorial. Further along at the bottom of the field is the Magna Carta which you can walk up to and read about some of the history. From here you either have the choice of walking further up the hill, or diverging off to the air force memorial which is a large building listing the names of all that served the air force. The walk to the air force memorial takes you via a hill with a decent view of the surrounding area. Walking further takes you via the wooded area with multiple pathways. Dotted along the route also were signs giving fascinating facts about local insect life. A nice area that I would recommend for those looking to do a short to...

Runnymede. All the memorials are well worth a visit. Currently there are wicker figures, a display of inscribed chairs and several information boards. Allow at least 3 hours to enjoy and see everything and wear sensible shoes as some places are uneven and some areas are a bit steep. Be prepared for a walk to cover everything. Take your own picnic and drinks as the cafe is just a small counter, quite expensive, doesn't have much choice and the toasted sandwiches we had fell to pieces when we tried to eat them. Or take a knife & fork to eat the toasted sandwiches with as you are not offered cutlery and they cannot be easily eaten without. There are plenty of staff at the cafe but the male staff members all deserve a special mention as they were all lovely. They were welcoming, helpful and friendly. The cafe is dog friendly and has free water and dog biscuits. They also sell dog sorbet. The car park is free for National Trust members but accepts cash or Just Park for...