Whether you’re after some time to unwind or prefer to enjoy a little more by way of activity, rest assured - there’s something for everyone.
21st July 2020
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21st July 2020
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If you’re after a change of scenery, in dire need of a break or have missed celebrations to reschedule, fear not – the Great British summer holiday is back on the cards. But you don’t have to travel for miles or pack your passport to enjoy a picturesque getaway. Perfectly situated, just a stone’s throw from Windsor, for both action-packed outdoor adventures and chilled weekends alike – a staycation at The Runnymede may be just the tonic you need. Coupling fresh air with plenty of activity options, cast your eye over our suggestions guaranteed to help you make the most of your time with us – feel free to do as much or as little as you like…
Your break starts the moment you step through our doors. Drop off your things and settle in before taking a wander around our grounds. Nothing quite compares to a picnic in the great outdoors on a balmy summer’s day so be sure to pre-order your favourite option from our three mouthwatering menus. Our picture-perfect orchard or extensive riverside lawns are ideal spots to unfurl your rug and tuck in!
Take a tranquil stroll up towards Old Windsor along the riverside towpath and make the most of our local area. The Magna Carta memorials and tea rooms are reachable on foot from The Runnymede Hotel, commemorating the sealing of the Magna Carta in 1215. Alternatively, set sail down the Thames aboard one of our fleet of boats, accessed via the hotel’s private jetty. Suitable for beginners and experienced skippers alike; the boats are available to hire throughout the summer months and ideal for a romantic excursion.
Kick off those walking shoes and grab your swimsuit. With a glass of Champagne in hand, enjoy an indulgent dip in the whirlpool which sits right on the banks of the River Thames.
After day of activities, treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner in Leftbank where you’ll discover a delicious variety of contemporary seasonal dishes. Our new informal a la carte offering is full of seasonal flair and international charm, from scrumptious salads to tantalising grilled treats from our flaming robata. When it comes to choosing your wine, our fantastic selection by SWIG – the artisan wine specialists – will have you roaming the globe tasting selections you won’t find elsewhere.
Head out to nearby Windsor, while most famous for its history, stroll though it’s cobbled streets and you’ll find plenty of boutique shops to pop your head into. Or if you’ve binge-watched boxsets of The Crown during lockdown, get your royal fix and take in one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, Windsor Castle. The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, explore the impressive State Apartments, catch the Changing of the Guard, and soak up the spectacular architecture of St George’s Chapel (where HRH Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle got married). If the weather is on your side, stretch your legs on a scenic walk through Windsor Great Park. Take advantage of the abundance of photo-worthy spots along the Long Walk with the park’s resident red deer, or explore Savill Gardens with it’s breathtaking collection of rare plants.
Head back to the hotel and enjoy a few hours of sheer indulgence with afternoon tea served in The Lock Bar & Kitchen, next to Bell Weir Lock. Watch the world go by with the hardest choice being your next selection of delectable treats from your towering cake stand of homemade cakes and scones, finger sandwiches and a sparkling glass of Rosé Champagne.
As the evening draws in, enjoy a tipple in The Lounge. Newly refurbished, it offers plenty of quiet corners, ideal gazing out over the river at sunset. With an extensive gin collection and wide variety of artisan wines courtesy of SWIG, you can be sure to find something delicious to whet your whistle.
Start the day as you mean to go on with a hearty or healthy award-winning breakfast in Leftbank. Wake up over some freshly brewed coffee, fruit and pastries before moving on to the main event – make yours a freshly cooked Full English with all the extras.
Brush up on your backhand with a friendly game of tennis on our outdoor courts. Alternatively fitness enthusiasts can tackle our outdoor circuit-training class or unwind a relaxing yoga session in our Orchard grove.
Before heading home, be sure to cross off another must-visit attraction off your list. Just 20minutes west of The Runnymede, Hampton Court Palace is guaranteed not to disappoint. Once the home of Henry VIII, explore its spectacular baroque palace and extensive, world-renowned gardens.
Alternatively, if you’re short on time, Kew Gardens is a must-see for botanical lovers. But with so much to see, from its Palm House with indoor rainforest to its Japanese Landscape gardens, it’s sure to provide you with an excuse to return.
