You’ve probably seen the signs or heard the name. If you live anywhere near the M25 or have spent a weekend wandering around Windsor, the Runnymede Hotel Egham Surrey likely occupies a space in your mind as that reliable, slightly corporate-feeling riverside spot. But things have changed. Drastically. Honestly, if you haven’t checked in lately, you’re basically looking at a completely different beast than the one that sat on these banks three or four years ago.
It isn't just a "hotel near the airport" anymore.
The Identity Crisis That Actually Worked
For decades, the Runnymede was a family-run staple. It was great for business meetings and the occasional Sunday carvery. Then, Warner Hotels (formerly Warner Leisure Hotels) swooped in back in 2022. They didn't just slap a new coat of paint on the lobby and call it a day. They sank millions into it—we’re talking a massive, top-to-bottom transformation—to turn it into their flagship "Reserve" property.
The biggest shock for the locals? It’s adults-only now.
No more kids splashing in the pool or toddlers running through the breakfast buffet. Some people were pretty gutted about that, especially families who’d made it a tradition. But Warner knows their audience. They’ve leaned hard into this "grown-up playground" vibe. The aesthetic has shifted from "safe corporate" to what I’d call a glamorous 1970s studio vibe. Think rich velvets, gold accents, and bold patterns. It’s a bit flashy, but it works surprisingly well with the river views.
What’s Actually New at the Runnymede Hotel Egham Surrey?
Walking in today, you’ll notice the 205 rooms have been totally overhauled. If you're booking, you’ve got to aim for one of the 25 new rooms they built specifically with riverside balconies. There’s something kinda special about watching the Thames flow by while you’re nursing a morning coffee. It’s quiet. Properly quiet.
The dining situation has also been flipped on its head. Gone are the old names you might remember. Now you’ve got:
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- The Market Kitchen: This is your go-to for the big, globally-inspired buffet spreads Warner is famous for.
- Brasserie32: A bit more refined, all-day dining with a menu that feels a lot more "London bistro" than "hotel restaurant."
- The Live Lounge: This is a brand-new addition, a purpose-built entertainment space with a bar and a cinema.
They also kept the spa, but it’s been refreshed. You still have the indoor and outdoor pools (the outdoor one is great in the summer, though it's seasonal—usually May to September), but the gym equipment is shiny and new, and they’ve added a "relaxation zone" that actually feels relaxing rather than just a room with some plastic chairs.
The "Warner Factor"
If you've never stayed at a Warner property, there’s a specific rhythm to it. They include breakfast and dinner in the price usually, plus a ton of activities. At the Runnymede Hotel Egham Surrey, this translates to some pretty random but fun stuff. You can try your hand at archery on the lawn or play a game of laser clay pigeon shooting.
It feels a bit like a high-end summer camp for people who appreciate a good wine list.
The Location Trap
People often think Egham is just a boring suburb, but the hotel is basically sitting on hallowed ground. You are minutes away from where the Magna Carta was sealed. You can literally walk from the hotel terrace onto the Thames Path and be at the Magna Carta Memorial or the Kennedy Memorial in about fifteen minutes.
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And Windsor? It’s right there. Ten minutes in a cab and you’re at the Castle.
But here is the catch: because it’s so close to the river and the historic sites, the traffic can be a nightmare. If you’re arriving on a Friday afternoon, expect the A308 to be a bit of a crawl.
Is it Worth the Hype?
Look, if you’re looking for a romantic, boutique "shabby chic" experience, this isn't it. It’s a big, polished operation. It feels professional. However, for a stress-free weekend where you don't have to worry about where to eat or how to keep yourself busy, it hits the mark. The fact that it’s now the flagship "Reserve" property means they’re trying much harder here than at some of the older coastal resorts in their portfolio.
A few pro tips for your stay:
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- Book the Balcony: Seriously, the standard rooms are nice, but the river-facing balconies are the whole point of being here.
- Check the Entertainment Schedule: They get some surprisingly good live acts in the auditorium. Check who’s playing before you book your dates.
- Use the River: They offer private boat hire. It’s pricey, but being your own captain for an hour is a lot better than just looking at the water from the bar.
- The Spa Fill-up: The spa gets busy on Saturday afternoons. If you want a treatment, book it the second you confirm your room.
Practical Next Steps
If you're planning a trip, the first thing to do is verify if you're looking for an adults-only experience, as they are strict on the 18+ policy. Head over to the official Warner Hotels website to check their specific "Reserve" offers, as they often bundle spa treatments or river excursions into the weekend packages. If you're local and just want the spa, keep an eye on their membership options; they did a massive overhaul of the health club facilities in late 2024 and 2025, making it one of the better-equipped gyms in the Egham area.