Windsor to Shepperton

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Section Overview

From the grand setting of Windsor Castle and Home Park, the Thames Path meanders downstream past royal estates, reservoirs, racecourses, aircraft factories and quiet suburban villages. Although surrounded in places by major transport routes (railways, M25, Heathrow Airport), the river itself remains surprisingly peaceful. It’s a flat, easy stretch, with good transport connections at either end.

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Leaving Windsor

From Windsor Bridge, the trail follows the south bank of the Thames through Home Park, part of the royal estate (be aware that the route may be occasionally diverted if the park is closed). You’ll soon pass Datchet, a riverside village with cafés, pubs and train connections. This can be a very useful spot for picking up supplies before heading into a more rural section.

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Runnymede – Birthplace of the Magna Carta

Further downstream you arrive at Runnymede, one of the most historically important stops along the river. This open meadow is where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215. Today it’s managed by the National Trust and dotted with memorials, including the John F. Kennedy Memorial and contemporary artwork The Jurors.

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Staines-upon-Thames

The next major landmark is Staines, an old market town that marks the former boundary between Middlesex and Surrey. The Thames Path crosses Staines Bridge, passing close to shops, cafés and conveniences, a useful refreshment stop at roughly halfway.

From here, the route becomes slightly more suburban, with houseboats, riverside homes and leisure parks along the bank.

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Chertsey Meads and the Thames Islands

Beyond Staines, the route enters Chertsey Meads, an area of open riverside meadow often full of dog-walkers and birdlife. In the distance you may glimpse the old aircraft factory buildings of Brooklands and hear the hum of nearby roads, but the riverbank remains nice and peaceful.

The Thames becomes more braided with channels and small islands here. Navigation becomes busier too, as you’re now firmly in boating territory.

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Arriving at Shepperton

After passing Chertsey Lock, the Thames Path reaches Shepperton Lock, where walkers cross to Old Shepperton, a peaceful village with a traditional green, church, and a selection of riverside pubs such as The Thames Court.

This is the official end of this stage, a quiet and charming spot that feels surprisingly remote given its proximity to London and Heathrow. When you’re ready to set out again, the next section continues for 14 miles towards Richmond.

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