Shepperton, Greater London: Staycation Inspiration

As lockdown lifts and the world starts to re-open, we thought we’d share with you some of our favourite haunts close to our Malvern Garden Buildings showsite in Shepperton, Greater London.

Shepperton covers a wide area but manages to maintain a village character including a High Street of independent shops and restaurants who will be eager for your support as we come out of quarantine.

Previously voted the “politest town in the UK”, visitors can expect to receive a warm welcome. Why not plan to make a day of it when you swing by our Shepperton showsite with this mini guide to the local area with places to explore, eat and see? Make sure to check for opening times, book ahead if required and keep to a safe social distance.

Thames Court Pub

A country pub oozing rural charm and rustic character overlooking the Thames. There’s plenty of seating, shaded tables for outdoor dining in the riverside beer garden. This grand pub is a former Dutch ambassador’s residence often frequented by boaters (as there’s excellent mooring nearby) and ramblers. Vestiges of its illustrious past like Delft tiles, oak panelling and beautiful fireplaces make for an ambient setting in which to enjoy a real ale and a hearty pub lunch.

Thames Court Pub, Shepperton, Greater London. Staycation Inspiration by Malvern Garden Buildings

Pinewood Cinema at Shepperton Studios

Shepperton has become synonymous with the world-famous studios established in 1931 and home to films like Alien, Mary Poppins Returns, Avengers and Mamma Mia. Its 14 stages (including a unique underwater filming stage) and 10 acres of backlot attract the world’s greatest creatives making films for the big and small screens. Why not catch a movie just yards from where it was shot at the Pinewood Cinema weekend only screenings? Tickets are available online.

Sunbury Embroidery Gallery & Café

This is a little-known gem can be found in the quaint town of Sunbury-on-Thames. The gallery was purpose built to house the Sunbury Millennium Embroidery which was designed to commemorate the ancient village of Sunbury and its community in the year 2000.

It’s an incredible piece of needlework featuring a vast range of local buildings, houses, schools, local parks, community life and riverside activities made by over 140 local volunteer embroiders. What’s remarkable about this piece is the little details – like the rat next to The Magpie pub, or a teddy outside an old beautiful house. Ask one of the friendly volunteers at the gallery to guide you through the fascinating history of Sunbury.

Each month, the gallery also exhibits the work of a different artist and hosts talks and workshops. Entry is free and make sure to call into the café for a slice of freshly baked cake and to take in the view of the beautiful Walled Garden.

Sunbury Embroidery Gallery & Café, Sunbury-on Thames. Staycation, Inspiration by Malvern Garden Buildings

Sunbury Lock & Ait

Although it is officially called Sunbury Lock, it is actually located on the banks on the River Thames on the Walton side and not the Sunbury side, which is why it has a Walton postal code. It has two locks and a lock keepers’ cottage. The original lock was built in 1812 and the newer one was built in 1927. It is on the Thames path, or the nearest point of access otherwise is the Weir Hotel. This lock was mentioned in the book “Three Men in a Boat”. It is very picturesque and well worth a visit.

Sunbury Lock, Sunbury-on-Thames, Greater London. Staycation Inspiration by Malvern Garden Buildings

Chertsey Meads

This 175-acre wildflower meadow is at its best during the months of May through to July but is always popular with families and dog walkers. There’s a modern children’s play area complete with pirate boat climbing frame. There is also a picnic area with pretty views of the river, the perfect place to while away an hour or two!

Chertsy Meadow, Shepperton, Greater London. Staycation Inspiration by Malvern Garden Buildings

Clock Tower

One of the most iconic buildings in Walton on Thames is the Clock Tower and is Grade II listed. It was originally part of Mount Felix and served as an army hospital during the War. It’s all that remains of the Charles Barry Italianate Style building after a fire destroyed all but the Clock Tower in 1967. The building and the eighteenth-century clock have been restored and the building is now used as an office block.

Clock Tower, Walton-on-Thames, Greater London. Staycation Inspiration by Malvern Garden Buildings

Got some good tips to take away?

Check out our other Staycation Inspiration tips for Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Staffordshire and Buckinghamshire.

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