Staines

About

Now known as Staines-upon-Thames, it is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas of The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers daily.

The Domesday name of 'Stanes' is understood to refer to a ring of 9 stones that is believed to have existed in Staines, known as the 'Ningen Stones'. It is believed that they were once a boundary marker. In fact, there are many boundary stones along the River Thames in Staines, dating from neolithic times to today. A more recent example is the 'London Stone' which marked London's western boundary (the original of which can be found in the Spelthorne Museum whilst a replica exists at the original location). The museum also exhibits many archaeological findings from the Roman era along with a range of prehistoric discoveries.

Things to Do in Staines-upon-Thames

• Hire a boat, play mini-golf and enjoy a variety of beverages and hot food at The Little Green Boat Company, Lammas Recreation Ground.
• Beautiful walks along the Thames Path link up Memorial Gardens to the Lammas Recreation Ground and Laleham Park, both equipped for spending a relaxing day by the river. Walk from Staines Bridge to Penton Lock (approx. 4 miles return), the most impressive loop along the river, where it's well worth making a trip across the lock to explore the tranquil wooded island.
• Staines town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offers a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
• Close to Laleham Park, Laleham village centre has a range of 18th and 19th century buildings and country-style pubs.
• Take a cruise along the historic river Thames to Runnymede or Windsor with Salters Steamers. Boats depart from Victoria Gardens. (Monday, Thursday and Friday Only - Between May & September 2018). This Service is only available for pre booked parties of 20 or more passengers.
• Or take a boat trip with French Brothers whose Runnymede to Hampton Court Service stops at Staines during June to September. For a full listing of running trips please refer to the online booking calendar.

Lots to see and do in Memorial Gardens, on the River Thames, in the Market Square and on the High Street with the Main Stage, 2 Performance Arenas, fun activities, stands galore and more including: Arts & Crafts Market, Birds of Prey Display, Children’s Arts & Crafts, French Market, Live Music,  HM Royal Rowbarge ‘Gloriana’ on display, Kayaking & Canoeing Taster Sessions with the Surrey Canoe Club, Rowing Taster Sessions with Staines & Egham Sea Cadets and Boat Trips with French Brothers.

Travel

Travel to and from Staines is simple. Staines railway station is on a direct line with London Waterloo, Richmond and Windsor and there is a coach link from the railway station direct to Thorpe Park. Riverboat trips connect Staines with Windsor, Runnymede and Hampton Court, with stops at Shepperton and Sunbury. Staines also has a bus station with connections to many local towns and villages.