Things To Do
in Sunbury
Sunbury-on-Thames is a suburban riverside town in Surrey on the south bank of the River Thames, known for boating, Thames towpaths and a commuter-friendly feel. It blends Victorian and modern housing with green spaces like Sunbury Park and easy access to Kempton Park Racecourse and nearby reservoirs. The town serves as a quiet base close to London and Heathrow while retaining a village atmosphere in parts such as Halliford and Laleham.
Visitors enjoy river walks, local pubs and short trips to nearby attractions such as Shepperton Studios and Richmond Park.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sunbury Village, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café. After your meal, take a stroll through the charming streets, admiring the historic architecture and local shops. Don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful St. Mary's Church, dating back to the 12th century.
After lunch at a local pub, head to the Sunbury Park, where you can relax by the River Thames or take a walk through the expansive green spaces. Consider visiting the Sunbury Antiques Market to hunt for unique treasures and vintage finds. As the afternoon winds down, enjoy a coffee at one of the riverside cafes, soaking in the serene views.
For dinner, indulge in a delightful meal at a restaurant that specializes in British cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Thames, where you can appreciate the sunset over the water. To end the evening, consider catching a local theatre performance or live music at a nearby venue.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Bedfont Lakes Country Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning surrounded by nature. Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to various species that thrive in the wetlands. Take a calming walk along the lakeside trails and immerse yourself in the tranquil environment.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, taking advantage of the beautiful green spaces. After your meal, explore more of the park by renting a bike or taking a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna. Spend some time at the children’s play area if you’re traveling with family.
Head back to Sunbury in the evening and treat yourself to dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. After dining, take a stroll through the local neighborhood, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and friendly community vibe. Consider stopping by a local pub to unwind with a pint and chat with the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Pint at a pub | $5-8 |
| 🚕Local taxi short ride | $8-20 |
| 🚆Train to Central London (one-way) | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Riverside location with scenic towpaths and boating opportunities
- Quiet, friendly suburban atmosphere with good access to London and Heathrow
- Plenty of green spaces and nearby outdoor recreation
- Strong local pub culture and community events
- Limited late-night entertainment within the town itself
- Can be busy during commuter peak times and race days
- Public transport options are good but less frequent late at night
- Some attractions require short trips to nearby towns
Places to Visit in Sunbury
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque lock gates, reflections on the Thames and boat traffic; great for sunrise or golden-hour shots of river activity.
Long riverside vistas, wildlife, and seasonal colours; ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Action photography during race days and atmospheric shots of the historic grandstands and crowds.
Parkland, mature trees and charming church architecture provide classic village-style compositions.
Wide-open skies and water reflections, especially dramatic at sunset and with migrating birds as subjects.
Food in Sunbury
Sunbury Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic British roast with meat, roast potatoes, vegetables and gravy; widely available at local pubs such as The Anchor or The Rose and often best on Sundays.
Must-Try!
Traditional battered fish with chips — a staple in riverside towns and available at takeaway shops and some pubs near the Thames.
Light sandwiches, scones and cakes with tea; many local cafés and nearby tearooms offer a traditional afternoon tea experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional market stalls and weekend vendors selling baked goods, local produce and street-food snacks; peak activity is on weekends and during local events.
A larger market in nearby Staines-upon-Thames offering fresh produce, street food and ethnic cuisines — worth a short trip for variety.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite, patient and respect queues — queuing is an ingrained custom and cutting in is frowned upon.
Punctuality is expected for meetings and bookings; if delayed, notify your host or venue.
At busy pubs, order and pay at the bar unless table service is offered; tipping at the bar is not required.
Stick to public footpaths and respect private land signs, especially near riverbanks and fields.
Safety
Tipping in Sunbury
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary: restaurants typically receive 10–15% if service is good (check for service charges). In pubs you don't usually tip for bar service, but leaving change or rounding up for table service is appreciated. Taxis can be rounded up or tipped ~10% for good service.
Card payments (chip-and-PIN and contactless) are widely accepted; mobile wallets are common. Carry small cash for market stalls or very small purchases, but most places accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blossoming riverside flora and increased bird activity; good for walks and outdoor photography but expect occasional rainy days.
Warmest, busiest season with boaters and outdoor events; ideal for river activities, but bring sun protection and book popular venues in advance.
Crisp air and attractive autumn foliage along the Thames; quieter than summer and great for scenic walks and cycling.
Chilly and wet at times, with early nights; festive markets in nearby towns and fewer tourists, but muddy towpaths and shorter daylight hours require warm clothing.
Sunbury at Night
Hiking in Sunbury
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside section of the national Thames Path offering easy walking, birdwatching and periodic short circular routes.
Flat, open trail around the reservoir suitable for walking, running and cycling with wide skies and water views.
Extensive parkland with deer, ancient trees and longer walks; combine with a visit to Hampton Court Palace for culture and gardens.
Airports
How to reach Sunbury by plane.
Approximately 15–25 minutes by car depending on traffic and quick by taxi or rail links; the closest major international airport offering extensive global connections.
Around 45–60 minutes by car or train; a secondary major airport with many international and European flights.
Further away in East London and reachable by rail and Tube combinations; convenient for business travel to the Docklands and Canary Wharf.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents commute into London or nearby business centres, giving the town a weekday commuter rhythm and demand for reliable transport links.
Suburban family households are common, attracted by local schools, parks and community facilities.
A significant proportion of long-term and older residents who prefer the quieter riverside lifestyle.
People employed at nearby sites such as Kempton Park, local retail, services and film studios (Shepperton) form part of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Kempton Park Racecourse nearby hosts regular race days and events, drawing local and regional crowds.
The Thames supports recreational rowing, kayaking and boating; local clubs and hire operators serve enthusiasts.
Traditional local club sports with community teams and weekend matches common in parks and recreation grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sunbury.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer at least one vegetarian main and vegetarian-friendly sides. Larger nearby towns like Kingston or Richmond have many vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
Vegan options are increasingly available but limited in small-town pubs; check menus in advance or visit nearby larger towns for more dedicated vegan eateries.
Gluten-free choices are commonly available in cafés and chain restaurants; always confirm cross-contamination policies if you have coeliac disease.