Experience England Minutes from the Airport
Where to stay: The Runnymede on Thames
Why: Walking distance to Windsor Castle + small British towns
How to get there: Taxi or Uber from Heathrow Airport
If you have a layover in England or only a few days, but you want to have an authentic British experience, this is the post for you! England is a country rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of London to the picturesque countryside, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With so much to see and do, you can create unforgettable memories and truly get a taste of the authentic British experience, even with just a short visit.
Enhance your travel experience by stepping outside the usual routine of stopping over at Heathrow and staying at a nearby airport hotel. Just a short distance away, nestled alongside the majestic River Thames, lies The Runnymede hotel – a truly enchanting haven that provides a beautiful and authentic British experience.
As you step into The Runnymede hotel, you will be transported to a world of elegance and sophistication. The tastefully decorated dining room exudes an air of grandeur, offering a delightful setting to indulge in a delectable traditional British dishes.
However, the charm of The Runnymede hotel extends far beyond exquisite dining. Picture yourself strolling along the River Thames, with its serene waters reflecting the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The hotel's idyllic location immerses you in nature's embrace, offering a sense of tranquility and peace that is often hard to come by in bustling city centers.
For those in need of relaxation and rejuvenation, The Runnymede hotel presents an unmissable opportunity to indulge in the ultimate spa experience. Leave the world behind and surrender to the therapeutic power of the luxurious spa, allowing yourself to emerge feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready to take on the world.
The Rooms
At the heart of the bustling city lies the Runnymede, a renovated older building that exudes an enchanting allure. Step foot into this unique establishment, and you'll embark on a journey where every room tells its own story. With each suite boasting its individual touch, your stay at the Runnymede promises a distinctive experience.
While staying in countless rooms, we've come to appreciate the charm that sets them apart. While some may view their quirks as nuisances, we embrace them as endearing qualities that add to the overall allure of the establishment. Occasionally, you may encounter a leaky shower, a minor inconvenience that stands as a testament to the building's history. Yet fear not, for it does not overshadow the cozy atmosphere that envelops each room.
To truly enhance your experience, it is imperative to choose a room that faces the enchanting river. The captivating views are well worth the additional cost. Imagine waking up to the gentle dance of sunlight upon the river's surface, or witnessing the river's rhythmic flow as you unwind after a day of exploration.
Food
When booking your stay, you can take advantage of the opportunity to include breakfast with your reservation. Their breakfast spread is designed to cater to all tastes, featuring a wide array of choices. One of the highlights of the breakfast selection is the option to have eggs cooked to order. Complement your eggs with a mouthwatering assortment of bakery items. To quench your thirst, they offer a variety of freshly squeezed juices. We loved the fresh apple juice in particular.
To keep things honest, we didn’t really care for the dinner buffet, and felt it was very overpriced for what you get.
As for nearby food options, there’s an array of choices available within walking distance. You can stroll to the small town close by and indulge in some to-go fried chicken or savor a delightful combination of beer and pizza at The Red Lion.
However, the journey to these food options is not just about the destination, but also the enchanting path leading you there. As you step out of the hotel, embark on a picturesque journey alongside the glistening river. A left turn will guide you along a charming path that winds its way through a scenic landscape. You will pass by a boatyard, and continue on the road that stretches ahead, directly towards a bustling thoroughfare. Cross this busy road with care, and then venture across a breathtaking field. Once you cross the path, the charming town will come into view, filled with small neighborhoods that exude charm and character. Here, you will discover a delightful surprise - a 24-hour grocery store conveniently located on the corner. There’s an extensive selection of liquor, beverages, and an assortment of food items.
Alternatively, for a change of scenery, consider heading in the opposite direction, following the River Thames towards the bridge. The town across the bridge boasts a wide variety of restaurants. Should you need any essentials or feel the urge to shop, you'll also find the convenience of TK Maxx and a well-stocked grocery store nearby.
Abandon the monotony of airport hotels and embrace a truly authentic British atmosphere. From the elegant dining room to the stunning river views and rejuvenating spa, this hidden gem promises an elevated travel experience that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. Unleash your wanderlust and uncover the true essence of Europe at The Runnymede hotel.
In order to be authentic, I won’t sugar coat the lunch and dinner options. We weren’t the biggest fans of the outdoor restaurant’s weekend lunch, and the main dining room dinner buffet was so bad that we had to let the front desk know. We aren’t picky eaters! It may have just been a one-off experience. If you plan to eat at the hotel for lunch or dinner, consider the coffee shop selections they have or room service.
As for nearby food options, you can walk to the small town close by for to-go fried chicken or some beer and pizza at The Red Lion. The walk to get there is quite beautiful if you take the path to the left as you exit the hotel, alongside the river. Just make sure you turn at the boatyard, take that road straight down to the busy road, cross it. Then make your way across the beautiful field to the other side. You will approach the town after you cross that street. Weave through the picturesque neighborhoods until you get to the center of the town. They also have a grocery store that is open 24 hours on the corner. They have liquor, beverages, food items, and more.
Another food option is to go the opposite direction alongside the river. Head that direction until you approach the bridge and take that across to town. They have a variety of restaurants there (and TK Maxx and a grocery store in case you need something!).
In conclusion, if you seek an exceptional travel experience in Europe, venture beyond the predictable and embark on an enchanting journey to The Runnymede hotel. Abandon the monotony of airport hotels and embrace a truly authentic British atmosphere. From the elegant dining room to the stunning river views and rejuvenating spa, this hidden gem promises an elevated travel experience that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. Unleash your wanderlust and uncover the true essence of Europe at The Runnymede hotel.
What to Do Nearby
If you find yourself with time to spare during a stop-over, rest assured, Windsor offers a delightful escape that is in close proximity. You can choose to take a leisurely stroll or hop into a convenient Uber to get there from The Runnymede Hotel.
Nestled just a stone's throw away, Windsor boasts an enchanting ambiance. With its picturesque streets, this little town promises an unforgettable experience. For history lovers, an excursion to the iconic Windsor Castle is a must! However, it's wise to plan your visit mindfully, considering that popular times of day and week can bring in significant crowds.
The repurposed train station features an array of enticing boutiques and charming eateries.
Eton College, situated just across the bridge from Windsor Castle, offers a stunning and picturesque area perfect for a leisurely walk. For those who may have difficulty walking long distances, an alternative that guarantees a delightful experience is taking a river tour down the Thames. This scenic journey allows you to appreciate the area from a different perspective, offering unique viewpoints and breathtaking sights along the way.
On the other hand, if you're up for a challenge and eager to explore the surroundings on foot, The Long Walk is an excellent option. Stretching from Windsor all the way back to the hotel, it provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm and nature of the area. Although we unintentionally prolonged our walk due to a few wrong turns, the extra distance only added to the adventure.
Eton College and Windsor Castle hold an irresistible allure, and whether you choose to stroll through the grounds, take a serene river tour, or embark on the challenging Long Walk, the experience is sure to leave an indelible impression.
Relax
Jet lag can put a damper on your travel experience, leaving you feeling tired and disoriented. That's why it's essential to prioritize relaxation during your trip. One place that comes highly recommended is The Runnymede Spa. With its array of amenities and serene atmosphere, it's a haven for weary travelers.
Upon entering the spa, you'll be greeted by the inviting locker rooms, equipped with all the essentials to make your visit comfortable. For the ultimate in relaxation, indulge in the plunge pools, saunas, and steam rooms. You can even take advantage of the indoor saltwater pool, hot tubs, and steam rooms.
If you're in the mood for some wellness treatments or exercise classes, the spa has you covered. For a moment of respite, venture outside the locker rooms to the large seating area. Grab a cup of tea, juice, or coffee and savor the relaxation on their inviting patio or indoor lounge area. The serene atmosphere will transport you to a place of tranquility, allowing you to fully unwind and recharge.
It's important to note that the spa has specific operating hours, so check their schedule in advance. Additionally, keep in mind that they close early on weekends, so plan accordingly to fully enjoy your spa experience.
If you're looking for another spot to unwind, the lobby at The Runnymede also offers a haven of relaxation. Treat yourself to a cup of afternoon tea or perhaps a glass of wine. Their English Breakfast and Earl Grey teas come highly recommended. During weekdays, you even have the option to enjoy a meal in the lobby area, providing a delightful culinary experience without leaving the comfort of the hotel.
Takeaway
The entire experience of staying at The Runnymede was nothing short of a delightful vacation in and of itself. We loved the hilarious ducks that adorned the hotel's decor. It was as if they were part of the hotel's quirky charm, adding a touch of playfulness to the sophisticated surroundings.
And oh, how mesmerizing it was to sit by the window, overlooking the tranquil river, and watch the boats glide by! Whether it be for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, The Runnymede promises to deliver an all-encompassing experience that captures the essence of British charm. We eagerly await our next stay :)
