Staines: History, Art and Paths along the Thames

Staines combines Roman history with public art, riverside paths and connections by train and boat. If you’re looking for a hotel in Staines, it helps to plan your days in advance: are you mainly interested in local history and art, activities on the water, or trips to other places?

Roman history, bridges and art

The Romans settled in Staines in 43 AD and named the settlement Ad Pontes (“at the bridges”). The name referred to the bridge they built across the Thames at the site of today’s Staines Bridge. Staines can therefore be associated both with Roman settlement and with the bridge-building that came later.

The present-day Staines Bridge opened in 1832 and was designed by George and John Rennie. It is made of rusticated granite ashlar. The date, design and material give the bridge its own architectural history alongside the Roman history associated with its location.

Another trace of history is the London Stone in Lammas Recreational Park. Its inscription identifies it as marking the western boundary of the City of London’s jurisdiction over the Thames; the stone was erected in 1285.

For public art, there is the Artwalk, an art trail in the centre of Staines-upon-Thames. It offers a recommended route for viewing the public art there. A sculpture designed and built by John Atkin stands on Wraysbury Road in Staines-upon-Thames, next to the Wraysbury River.

Riverside paths and activities on the water

Lammas Recreation Ground is a family park right beside the Thames. Since 2021, the park has had a nine-hole mini-golf course, which is described as wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly. If you plan to play mini-golf, check availability before your visit.

The official Route 4 starts and ends at Lammas Recreation Ground and is 13 miles long. It follows the Thames towpath under Staines Bridge and continues to the Memorial Gardens. Trail conditions can change; check the latest information before setting out.

In Staines, the Thames Path links the Memorial Gardens, Lammas Recreation Ground and Laleham Park for riverside walks. This offers different ways to orient yourself: Route 4 has a stated length, while the Thames Path identifies the places connected along the river.

Museum, events and getting here

The Spelthorne Museum is located in the Library Hub at the Elmsleigh Centre in Staines, next to the bus station. Items on display include a mammoth tusk, Roman pots and a replica of the Neolithic Shepperton Woman. Exhibitions and visitor arrangements can change; check the latest information before your visit.

The annual Staines Regatta takes place on a 500-metre course from Wheatsheaf Lane to Silvery Sands and is free to spectators. Staines-upon-Thames Day is a free family day with events in the Memorial Gardens, Market Square, High Street and by the Thames. Dates and programmes can change; check the latest information in advance.

Staines railway station has direct train services to London Waterloo, Richmond and Windsor. River boat trips connect Staines with Windsor, Runnymede and Hampton Court. Windsor is a destination on both services; the train also connects Staines directly with London Waterloo and Richmond, while the boat trips connect it with Runnymede and Hampton Court. Check the latest timetables for your journey.

Discover more destinations: Hindhead, West Molesey, Burpham, Esher, Ewhurst, Godalming, Thames Ditton, Pirbright

For the wider travel overview: Surrey.