A Quick Stop Near Heathrow Airport

If you have a layover in England or only a couple of days to spare, there’s still time to enjoy a touch of authentic British charm—without straying too far from Heathrow Airport.

Not long ago, we stayed at a hotel along the Thames, just a short drive from the airport and within walking distance of Windsor Castle and a handful of storybook towns. Though that particular hotel has since changed hands and may no longer offer the same level of service or amenities, the overall experience of staying in this area left a lasting impression.

Why This Area?

Just beyond the typical airport hotels, this stretch along the River Thames offers a much richer experience. Mornings were spent watching the sun glint off the water, and evenings were reserved for riverside walks and quiet moments of reflection. Even with limited time, it felt like a proper getaway.

The Vibe

The hotel, The Runnymede Hotel itself—at the time—had a cozy, old-world feel. Some rooms had their quirks (we encountered a leaky shower here and there), but there was a certain charm to its character. The river-facing rooms were especially memorable, with views that made the jet lag melt away. Waking up to ducks floating past your window was, honestly, pretty delightful.

We appreciated little touches like fresh apple juice at breakfast and a dining room that, at least visually, carried a bit of quiet elegance. That said, our experience with lunch and dinner service was hit or miss—one evening’s buffet was so disappointing that we actually gave feedback at the front desk (and we’re not picky eaters!). So if you're planning to dine in, it might be worth sticking to breakfast or checking out the lobby café and room service.

Nearby Food & Walks

Fortunately, food options just beyond the hotel more than made up for it. A short, scenic walk along the river leads to a small town with pizza and beer at The Red Lion, late-night snacks from a 24-hour grocery store, or quick bites like fried chicken. The journey there was half the fun—crossing fields, winding through neighborhoods, and taking in a slice of daily British life.

Alternatively, you can head in the other direction along the river, cross a nearby bridge, and explore a town with a wider selection of restaurants. There’s also a TK Maxx and grocery store if you’re in need of supplies or spontaneous shopping therapy.

Things to Do Nearby

Windsor is the star of the show. Whether you Uber or walk, it’s worth the short trip. Stroll the cobblestone streets, visit Windsor Castle (mind the crowds!), or enjoy a meal in one of the cafés tucked into the repurposed train station. Just across the bridge lies Eton College—perfect for a scenic walk.

One of our favorite experiences was taking a riverboat tour, offering a peaceful way to soak in the surroundings from the water. And for those with more stamina (or curiosity), there’s The Long Walk, a path stretching from the castle that, if you're ambitious, could take you all the way back to the hotel area.

A Note on Relaxation

Jet lag is no joke, and one of the highlights of our stay was the hotel’s spa. With plunge pools, saunas, steam rooms, and an indoor saltwater pool, it was the perfect place to unwind. The quiet lounge and riverside patio made for a peaceful place to sip tea and recenter before the next leg of the journey.

(Do check hours in advance if you’re interested in visiting a spa nearby, especially on weekends.)

Final Thoughts

While I can’t confidently recommend the hotel under its current management, the location remains incredibly special. It was one of those rare layovers that felt more like a full-on retreat. We laughed about the quirky room details, relaxed by the river, and were genuinely enchanted by the mix of nature, history, and simple pleasures.

If you're passing through London and want something more than a sterile airport hotel, consider venturing just a bit farther. With a little planning, you can uncover an unexpectedly beautiful slice of England—peaceful, picturesque, and just the right amount of quirky!

Here’s a video that features our time in the area: