Car Hire Virginia Water

Perched on the edge of Windsor Great Park, where Surrey gently nudges into Berkshire, it offers space to roam and plenty to stumble across. It’s easy enough to reach from either direction—we’ve cruised in off the M25 and rolled down the A30 from Staines and Ashford. Once you’re here, though, it feels surprisingly still considering it has just shy of 6,000 residents. Spring brings colour to the gardens and light to the water; autumn adds gold and quiet to the air.

It’s not a place that shouts. You won’t find busy high streets or buzzing markets. What you’ll get instead: long, gentle walks, curious landmarks, hidden corners and enough café stops to keep you going till dusk.

Attractions In Virginia Water

Virginia Water has a knack for blending the polished with the peculiar—and that’s what keeps it interesting.

Virginia Water Lake

The centrepiece. This manmade lake stretches out with real drama—a four-and-a-half mile circuit that weaves through pines, past open lawns and over streams. We kicked off near London Road where parking’s easiest. The path is flat and friendly, dotted with benches and mid-walk snacks. Expect dogs in coats, toddlers on scooters and the occasional runner dodging both. Open daily from 7:45 am to 7:00 pm.

Roman Ruins Of Leptis Magna

An odd sight in the Surrey woods—columns, stones and archways from ancient Libya, quietly resting near Waterfall Close. They were shipped over in the 1800s and still carry a ghost of their past. We stopped off after visiting Egham and found ourselves completely absorbed, reading old engravings and watching a boy balance across the stones like it was a playground.

The Cascade

Follow the sound of rushing water and you’ll find it—a dramatic stone waterfall just off the trail. Cool air rises from the spray and the sound blankets everything. We brought takeaway coffees and sat nearby while a heron stalked the edge, barely noticed by passers-by. Open 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.

The Totem Pole

This towering, hand-carved pole stands tucked into Englefield Green—a Canadian gift and a favourite with kids. Even when fencing keeps you from getting close, it’s striking. During a wander from Sunbury On Thames, we took a slight detour just to see it again. Still worth it.

The Savill Garden

Crisp paths, hidden glades, well-labelled flowerbeds—this is gardening at its most grand. But it’s not overly fussy. We drifted in after a stop in Shepperton and ended up lingering over coffee at the café, watching robins flit between the shrubs. Open 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The Valley Gardens

A bit wilder than its Savill sibling. Here, rhododendrons explode in spring, winding trails twist unexpectedly and there’s always a quiet corner to claim. We came in from Weybridge for a quick look and lost an entire afternoon. No regrets.

Virginia Water Lake Pavilion Café

This one’s a magnet—for good reason. It’s right by the car park and brimming with warm drinks, toasties and cake that actually lives up to the look. On our visit, a spaniel in a raincoat dozed under the table while its owner tucked into soup. Peak contentment. Open daily, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm.

War Memorial

Just off the High Street, quiet and easy to miss. While driving in from Addlestone, we pulled over for a few moments. Neatly kept, surrounded by trees and deeply still—worth the time, however brief.

Riverside Walk

This trail leads away from the lake’s polish and into something softer—mossy banks, untamed hedgerows and birds calling from just out of view. It’s one for dawdlers. A popular choice for those visiting from Chertsey who want something quieter than the main route.

Cabrera Trust Riverside Walk

We didn’t mean to find this—it’s near Beechmont Avenue and barely signposted. But it’s a gem. Muddy paths, low branches and just enough mystery to make it feel like a mini adventure. We passed two dog walkers, no one else. Just how we like it.

A Place To Pause, Not Just Pass Through

Virginia Water doesn’t rush you—and frankly, it won’t let you rush it either. After the walk, we grabbed lunch at Piccolino (fancier than expected but relaxed), then coffee from The Copper Horse, which wins on both friendliness and proximity to the station. The Wheatsheaf Hotel, right by the lake, made for a solid overnight stay—warm beds, hot food, no faff.

We came for a walk and stayed longer than planned. Next time, we might not even wait for an excuse.