Egham is a town steeped in history, predating 670 AD when the monastery Chertsey Abbey was founded. Undoubtedly, it is most famous for being the site where the Magna Carta was signed in 1215, taking place at the nearby Runnymede meadows and starting the country on the route to democracy. Today, visitors can find memorials commemorating this momentous signing.
Within the charmingly rustic town sits St John’s Church, a grade I-listed building dating back to the 13th-century, allowing visitors and locals alike to feel a unique juxtaposition of old and new. For those interested in architecture, a stroll through the Royal Hollow University campus is a must, particularly to get a glimpse of the magnificent Victorian-era Gothic Founders building.
As a commuter town, Egham is home to plenty of London ex-pats and city-dwellers looking for a slice of the countryside. On a sunny day in town, there is no better spot for some country air than the Virginia Water Lake, a tranquil area ideal for picnics, walking and boating. For a woodland walk, stroll up to Savill Garden and take in the picturesque scenery. After a busy day of sightseeing, walking and working up an appetite, head to one of the many places to eat in Egham to cap off the day. If you’re after a hearty serving of traditional British cuisine, you’re in luck as there are plenty of pubs and gastropubs in the area, or for something a bit different, why not treat yourself to a luxury afternoon tea at one of the many tea rooms nearby.