Follow this trail from Wraysbury station across parkland, taking in a historic tree and the scene of the sealing of the Magna Carta—and enjoy a tasty end
There is plenty of interest on this short, circular walk from Wraysbury station as it passes through the diverse woodland, grassland and water habitats of Wraysbury Lakes and across National Trust land at Ankerwycke. There are views across the Thames to Runnymede and you pass the ruins of a 12th-century Benedictine priory and the Ankerwycke yew, one of Britain’s most famous trees, before arriving at Wraysbury’s pretty village green and cricket pitch to reach The Perseverance, a pub with a tempting menu. From here, it’s a short walk back to Wraysbury station passing Tithe Farm and its weatherboard barns.
From Platform 1 or 2, take the steps to the road. Turn right and cross over Colne Brook by the bridge. Immediately after, follow the public right of way signed on your right. If you pass a sign to Engenica House, you have gone too far.
The path initially follows the stream before running parallel to the railway and reaching a footpath sign to the right. Take this, and having carefully crossed the tracks using two stiles, bear left following the marker post and yellow arrow.
Follow this path with the stream on your right and the lake to your left. Depending on the season, you may see honeysuckle, wild rose, herb Robert—a small wild pink geranium—and the frothy, white heads of Queen Anne’s lace. In summer, dragonflies are abundant, and in winter the lakes are home to wildfowl.
After three-quarters of a mile, you will reach a bench, erected by the environmental charity Groundwork UK, with lovely views downstream. Pass an information board explaining that Wraysbury Lakes are former gravel pits, now designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by English Nature. Leave the area by a stile opposite the MOT test centre.
Turn right on to the road. Pass the shops and Panahar Tandoori restaurant, and continue for about half a mile, until you reach the gates to the British Airways Sailing Club on your right. Cross the road and take the footpath to the right of house number 104.
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