Things To Do
in Chertsey

Chertsey is a historic Surrey town set on the River Thames with a village charm and a strong riverside character. It preserves remnants of Chertsey Abbey and offers pleasant strolls along the water, green spaces, and a compact town centre. Its location near Windsor, Egham, and Surrey Hills makes it a convenient base for day trips while retaining a relaxed, small-town atmosphere.

With easy access to London, a friendly pub culture, and scenic walking routes, Chertsey suits travelers seeking a calm, scenic escape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Chertsey
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning St. Peter's Church, a historic site dating back to the 12th century. Take time to appreciate the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere before enjoying a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Stroll the quaint streets while admiring the charming houses and shops that define Chertsey's character.

afternoon
:

After lunch, make your way to the Chertsey Museum, where you can delve into the town's rich heritage and learn about its significance in British history. Spend some time exploring the exhibits and interacting with the knowledgeable staff. Conclude your afternoon with a peaceful walk along the River Thames, enjoying the scenic views and wildlife.

evening
:

As evening approaches, savor a delicious dinner at one of Chertsey's cozy pubs, where you can sample traditional British fare. Engage with locals and share stories over a pint, soaking in the warm atmosphere. Cap off the night with a stroll under the stars along the riverbank, reflecting on a day well spent.

day 2
Adventurous Day at Thorpe Park
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for an exhilarating day at Thorpe Park, just a short drive from Chertsey. Arrive early to beat the crowds and head straight to the thrilling roller coasters and attractions. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the park's vibrant atmosphere as you get ready for the adrenaline rush.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon hopping from ride to ride, experiencing the thrills of attractions like Stealth and Swarm. Grab lunch at one of the park's eateries, refueling for more excitement. As the sun shines down, enjoy the lively ambiance and perhaps catch a live show or entertainment happening around the park.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a final ride before heading to a nearby restaurant for dinner. Reflect on the adrenaline-filled day over a meal with friends or family, sharing your favorite moments. If you're up for it, take a leisurely evening walk in the nearby park to unwind.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🛒Grocery staple (weekly)$60-120
🚆Public transport ticket$5-10
🏨One-night hotel$90-160

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Historic charm and riverside scenery
  • Proximity to London and Heathrow
  • Good day trips to Windsor and Egham
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger towns
  • Smaller town services may require trips to nearby towns

Places to Visit in Chertsey

Visit one of these nice places.

Chertsey Abbey Ruins

Atmospheric stone arches and ivy-covered walls along the river; best light at dawn or golden hour.

Chertsey Bridge and Riverside Promenade

Iconic Thames views with reflections on calm days; great for wide-angle river shots.

Chertsey Park Meadows

Open green spaces with distant church spires and water features; ideal for landscape and candid family photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chertsey

Chertsey’s dining scene centers on hearty British pub fare, casual cafes, and riverside eateries. Expect seasonal dishes, simple fare, and plenty of hearty options that are easy to enjoy after a day of exploring.

Chertsey Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and Chips

Crispy battered cod or haddock with thick-cut chips; widely available at pubs and town eateries along the Thames.

Must-Try!

Beef and Ale Pie

Slow-cooked beef in a rich ale gravy tucked into a flaky pastry crust; best with mashed potatoes or chips.

Cream Tea

Scones with clotted cream and jam served with tea—perfect for a relaxing afternoon break at local cafes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Staines-upon-Thames Market

Weekend market near the river offering local produce, crafts, and occasional street food stalls.

Seasonal Riverside Market

Seasonal markets in nearby towns with local producers and takeaway options; check town centre schedules.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chertsey has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Rain is common year-round, with wet spells more frequent in autumn and winter, and plenty of sunny days in late spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing and politeness

People queue in orderly lines and greet staff with courtesy. Polite language and small talk are appreciated in pubs and cafes.

Pubs and dress code

Casual attire is typical; lower noise levels in the early evening. Respect personal space and avoid loud behavior in shared spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

general safety: stay aware near the river, especially after rain when banks can be slippery. Use well-lit paths at night, lock vehicles, and keep valuables secure in crowded places. Emergency services are standard NHS, police, and fire services; dial 999 in an emergency.

Tipping in Chertsey

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is discretionary in the UK. If service is not included, leaving around 10-15% in pubs and restaurants is common; many places accept card or mobile payments, and cash tips are also accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days and budding gardens; plenty of pleasant walking weather, though occasional showers are possible.

Summer

Long days and lively riverside scenes; stay hydrated and plan outdoor shoots for early morning or late afternoon light.

Autumn

Golden foliage and clear skies; comfortable temperatures for longer outdoor walks and photography.

Winter

Cooler temperatures and shorter days; possible frost mornings and cozy indoor venues for urban photography.

Nightlife Guide

Chertsey at Night

Chertsey’s nightlife centers on cozy, traditional pubs and riverside bars. The scene is relaxed and family-friendly, with occasional live music or quizzes; nearby towns like Staines and Weybridge offer broader late-night options and more venues.

Hiking in Chertsey

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Runnymede Walks

Scenic Thames riverside trails around Egham and Englefield Green with historic meadows.

Virginia Water Lake and Windsor Great Park

Popular circular routes with woodland paths and water views.

Box Hill (Surrey Hills Area)

Dramatic viewpoints and heathland hikes within a short drive.

Airports

How to reach Chertsey by plane.

London Heathrow Airport

Major international hub approximately 25-40 miles away by road, depending on traffic.

London Gatwick Airport

Secondary international hub about 40-60 miles away.

London Luton Airport

Mid-range European gateway roughly 40-60 miles away.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town centre is compact and walkable with riverside paths and historic sites; some peripheral areas may require short drives or buses.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Strong presence of families with school-age children; many local parks and activities.

Retirees

Appeal of tranquil riverside living and slower pace; active community groups exist.

Young Professionals

Commuters and remote workers attracted by proximity to London and nearby towns.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Widely played at local clubs and schools; matches and community teams frequently host fixtures.

Cricket

Summer sport with local clubs and grounds; often played on village greens.

Rugby

Nearby clubs and regional teams provide amateur and youth opportunities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate, with heavier flows on peak commuter times. Good rail links connect to London and southern towns; road access via the M25 and A3 is straightforward but can be busy during rush hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chertsey.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most pubs and cafes offer vegetarian options such as veggie pies, roasted vegetables, salads, and halloumi dishes. If a dish isn’t clearly veggie, ask for modifications or check menus in advance; many places can adapt meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

NHS GP practices are available locally; nearest hospital options include Frimley Park Hospital and St Peter’s Hospital in the wider area. Local clinics offer routine care and urgent care as needed.

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