Car Hire Sunbury On Thames

The first thing you’ll notice when driving into Sunbury On Thames is how the roads soften as you approach the river. Lanes narrow, hedgerows grow denser and the Thames begins to shape the rhythm of the place. Tucked just southwest of Central London, this town with 18,000 residents eases off the main roads without ever feeling remote—the kind of place that feels built for a slow drive and a quiet wander.

Sunbury is easily reached via the M3 or A316 and having a car makes the day flexible—you’ll find free or time-limited parking near parks and the riverside. The local climate leans towards mild unpredictability. Misty mornings turn bright by lunchtime and the wind often brings a chill, even in early summer. A light waterproof jacket earns its keep and it’s worth packing a picnic blanket if you’re planning park stops. Spring and early autumn are ideal—cool enough for walking, warm enough for the windows down. If you’re passing through from Walton or heading out of London, Sunbury is a natural next stop on a riverside drive.

Attractions In Sunbury On Thames

Driving into Sunbury, you get the sense that the best bits aren’t clustered in one place. Some sit close to the river, others are tucked beside parks or just off roundabouts you’d otherwise pass.

Sunbury Park And The Walled Garden

Off Thames Street, you’ll find roadside parking that makes it easy to stop at Sunbury Park. A short walk through the gates brings you into open lawns and a walled garden where time seems to pause. The Sunbury Embroidery Gallery sits quietly inside—small, curated and open most days between 10:30am and 4pm. It’s an easy place to spend an hour before driving toward Staines or looping back towards the A308.

Riverside Arts Centre

With plenty of roadside parking nearby, the Riverside Arts Centre sits right along the high street. The arts venue hosts community theatre, small concerts and stand-up evenings like Laughing Chili. It’s the kind of place you can fit into your route—a quick visit while passing through or a full evening out. Audiences often include folks from Ashford and surrounding villages, who know it’s worth the short drive.

Rivermead Island

Just across a small bridge, Rivermead Island has no car access but it’s only a two-minute walk from nearby parking spots. The island is open all day and feels far removed from road noise—ideal for stretching your legs after time behind the wheel. It’s especially peaceful in the early morning, with just the sound of the river and rustling trees for company. If you’re driving from Hampton, this is a worthwhile detour.

Kidabulous

Off Brooklands Close, Kidabulous is a godsend for parents on the move. With a car park right out front, it’s easy to drop in for an hour or two—particularly useful if your journey’s been long or the weather’s turned. It’s open from 9:30am to 6pm and draws regular visitors from places like Molesey, where family day trips often start.

Sunbury Antiques Market

Kempton Park Racecourse transforms twice a month into one of the UK’s biggest antiques fairs. The Sunbury Antiques Market has a casual air—no entrance fee, no pressure to buy—but it’s full of surprises. Vintage lighting, garden statues, old signage, military badges. It’s the kind of market that feels like a hunt, with people arriving early from Richmond Upon Thames to get first dibs.

Kempton Steam Museum

Right next to the racecourse, the Kempton Steam Museum has its own small car park, making it a convenient stop if you’re already visiting the market. You won’t need more than an hour or two here—the vast steam engine fills the old pumping station with a mechanical hum and the volunteers are always happy to talk shop. Open on select weekends.

King George’s Field

If you’re looking for open space without the crowds, King George’s Field along Groveley Road is a solid choice. There’s on-street parking nearby and it’s open daily until 8:30pm. Ideal for a breather if you’re heading toward Shepperton or looping south towards the river again.

Kenyngton Manor Recreation Ground

This smaller park has a relaxed pace and good visibility—perfect if you’re travelling with kids and want a safe stop before continuing your drive. It’s easy to find off the main road and there’s always a spot nearby to pull over.

Hanworth Park

A popular stop for those coming from Thames Ditton, Hanworth Park is a broader sprawl—good for longer strolls and a bit of off-lead running if your dog’s in tow. Parking is simple and access is all-day. The playground near the entrance is well kept and there’s always space to find your own patch.

Hampton Kempton Waterworks Railway

Only open Sundays, this miniature railway sits just off Snakey Lane and has its own little car park. Perfect for younger kids or those with a soft spot for steam trains, the ride itself is short and sweet. It also makes a nice final stop if you’re winding your way back from the antiques fair or heading westward toward larger towns.

Spending Time In Sunbury

Having a car opens up more of what Sunbury has to offer. You can hop between riverside pubs and local cafés, pick up bits from the antiques fair or drop in on smaller parks without needing to keep to a timetable. On Thames Street, Café Capriccio is handy for coffee and light lunches, with short-stay parking just out front. The Flower Pot, a smart coaching inn with a restaurant and boutique rooms, serves classic dishes with a view of the river.

There are a couple of budget-friendly places to stay with parking included—or if you need more choice, overnighting in Walton On Thames gives you a wider range of hotels without straying far.