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John F Kennedy Memorial at Runnymede

A serene riverside memorial in historic Runnymede Meadows honoring President John F Kennedy and symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.

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The John F Kennedy Memorial in Englefield Green, Egham, is a serene and symbolic tribute to the 35th President of the United States. Situated on a gifted acre of English land, this circular open-air monument features a seven-tonne Portland stone inscribed with Kennedy's inaugural address. Set in historic Runnymede Meadows near the site where the Magna Carta was sealed, it offers a peaceful space for reflection and honors the enduring Anglo-American friendship.

A brief summary to John F Kennedy Memorial

  • Egham, Englefield Green, TW20 0YU, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
  • Take time to explore the nearby Magna Carta Memorial and 'The Jurors' bronze chairs for deeper historical context.
  • Wear sturdy footwear as the path to the memorial is steep and uneven, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding meadows, soaking in the tranquil riverside atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Train and Bus

    Take a train from London Waterloo to Egham station, approximately a 40-minute journey. From Egham, catch the local bus towards Englefield Green; the bus ride takes about 10 minutes. The memorial is a short walk from the bus stop. Tickets cost around £10-£15 one way.

  • Car

    Driving from central London to the JFK Memorial takes about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available near Runnymede National Trust car park, with a daily fee of approximately £5. Note that the final approach involves walking on uneven paths.

  • Walking

    For those staying nearby in Englefield Green, a 20-30 minute walk through scenic Runnymede Meadows leads to the memorial. The terrain is grassy and includes some slopes, so suitable footwear is recommended.

John F Kennedy Memorial location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about John F Kennedy Memorial

A Symbol of Transatlantic Friendship and Legacy

The John F Kennedy Memorial at Runnymede stands as a poignant symbol of the enduring bond between the United Kingdom and the United States. Erected in 1965, the memorial occupies an acre of English ground gifted in perpetuity to the United States by the people of Britain. This unique gesture reflects the deep respect and affection for Kennedy, who represented ideals of liberty and peace during his presidency from 1961 until his assassination in 1963. The memorial is located in Englefield Green, near Egham, Surrey, within the historic meadows of Runnymede — a site renowned for its connection to the Magna Carta, a foundational document for constitutional law and civil liberties.

Design Inspired by a Journey Through Life

Designed by Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, the memorial is more than a simple monument. It draws inspiration from John Bunyan’s allegory in "Pilgrim’s Progress," symbolizing a journey through the stages of human life. Visitors enter through a wooden gate and traverse a stepped cobbled path, representing encounters with people along life’s way. The path’s 50 unique steps symbolize the 50 states of America, culminating in the central feature: a seven-tonne block of Portland stone that seems to float above the ground. This stone, sourced from the same quarry as St Paul’s Cathedral, is inscribed with a dedication from the British people and a powerful excerpt from Kennedy’s inaugural address, emphasizing freedom and peace.

Historic Context and Nearby Memorials

Runnymede Meadows, where the memorial is set, is steeped in history. It is famously the location where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215, a milestone in the development of democracy and rule of law. The proximity of the JFK Memorial to this site links two pivotal moments in Anglo-American history. Nearby, visitors can also find the Magna Carta Memorial and the RAF Memorial, enriching the area’s significance. The open-air circular design of the JFK Memorial encourages quiet contemplation, offering views across the meadows and the River Thames, further enhancing its tranquil atmosphere.

A Living Memorial Through Education

Beyond the physical monument, the Kennedy Memorial Trust was established in 1964 to create a living legacy. The Trust provides scholarships for British graduates to study at prestigious American institutions such as Harvard and MIT, fostering educational and cultural exchange between the two nations. This ongoing initiative embodies the spirit of cooperation and shared values that the memorial commemorates.

Artistic Features and Symbolism

Close to the memorial stands "The Jurors," a striking artwork consisting of twelve large bronze chairs. Each chair is intricately decorated with symbolic images referencing Clause 39 of the Magna Carta, indigenous land claims, and historic struggles for justice and rights. This installation adds a contemporary layer of meaning, connecting past and present themes of liberty and justice.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to the JFK Memorial find a peaceful, reflective space away from urban bustle. The site’s natural setting in the riverside meadows invites contemplation of Kennedy’s vision and the broader themes of freedom and democracy. The memorial’s design, historical resonance, and scenic surroundings combine to create a unique cultural landmark that honors a significant figure while celebrating shared heritage and values between two nations.

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