Englefield Green: Memorial, Garden and Architecture

In Englefield Green, commemorative heritage, garden design and architecture sit side by side. The Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial on Coopers Hill, the seasonal planting at The Savill Garden and the artwork “Writ in Water” each offer a different focus. The Church of Saint Simon and Saint Jude is also among the place’s defining historical features.

Commemoration on Coopers Hill

The Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial stands on Coopers Hill, overlooking the River Thames. It commemorates by name more than 20,000 members of the air forces who died during the Second World War while serving from bases in the United Kingdom and in northern and western Europe, and who have no known graves. The memorial thus links a specific historical context with a clearly identified group of people.

Queen Elizabeth II unveiled the memorial on 17 October 1953; it was designed by Sir Edward Maufe. Visitors who learn about the site encounter both its origins and its commemorative purpose. The view across the Thames adds a landscape perspective without diminishing the site’s character as a memorial.

Garden design and play facilities

The Savill Garden comprises 35 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland. Changing seasonal plantings shape the garden throughout the year. Its history dates back to 1932, when King George V commissioned garden designer Eric Savill to create it. The garden, woodland and seasonal design offer different aspects to consider when planning a visit.

Next to The Savill Garden, in the woodland, is Adventure Play, a handcrafted adventure playground with walkways, slides, sculptures and tree houses. Each session lasts two hours. All visitors entering the playground need a ticket, including accompanying adults.

Church architecture and contemporary art

The Church of Saint Simon and Saint Jude in Englefield Green is a Grade II*-listed building. E. B. Lamb built the church in 1859. Its designation and date of construction provide two specific points of reference for anyone interested in the area’s architectural heritage; this historical connection can also be clearly distinguished from the themes of commemoration and gardens.

Another point of interest is “Writ in Water”, an award-winning architectural artwork by Mark Wallinger. The National Trust commissioned it for Runnymede Meadow in Englefield Green. As an immersive space, it is dedicated to contemplation and reflection. An inscription reflected in a pool brings Clause 39 of Magna Carta into view. In this way, the work connects contemporary art with a specific reference to Magna Carta, while the memorial focuses on commemorating members of the air forces who died in the Second World War.

Gardens and landscape in Windsor Great Park

The Savill Garden is located within Windsor Great Park. The park has walking trails through ancient woodland, alongside lakes and across varied landscapes. With its seasonal design, The Savill Garden offers a different focus from the walking trails through the park’s varied landscapes.

The Savill Garden’s main visitor centre is within the boundaries of Englefield Green and can be reached from the village on foot or by bicycle. Check the latest access information before travelling. Depending on your interests, you can focus your choice of accommodation on the memorial, the garden, historic architecture or the artwork.

Discover more destinations: Egham, Charlwood, West Molesey, Farnham, Peaslake, Smallfield, Copthorne, Ripley.

Return to the regional travel overview: Surrey.