Thundry Meadows: A Serene Wetland Sanctuary in Surrey
Discover Surrey’s tranquil wetland haven at Thundry Meadows, where diverse habitats and rich wildlife thrive along the River Wey.
Thundry Meadows is a tranquil 16-hectare nature reserve located in Elstead, Surrey, managed by Surrey Wildlife Trust. Nestled along the River Wey, it features diverse wetland habitats including quaking mire, alder carr, and grasslands. The reserve supports rich wildlife such as bats, harvest mice, dragonflies, and rare plants, offering peaceful nature walks and a unique glimpse into Surrey’s natural heritage.
A brief summary to Thundry Meadows
- 3 Charles Hill, Farnham Rd, Godalming, Elstead, GU8 6LE, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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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
- Be cautious of deep water and natural springs throughout the reserve.
- Visit between April and August for the best wildflower displays and active wildlife.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for wet and uneven terrain.
- Dogs are not permitted except for guide and assistance dogs to protect wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Godalming from London Waterloo, journey time approximately 50-60 minutes. From Godalming station, catch the Stagecoach bus 46 towards Farnham, which stops near Elstead. The bus ride takes about 25-30 minutes. Note that bus services may be infrequent on weekends. Total travel time from London is around 1.5 to 2 hours. Bus fare is approximately £5-7.
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Car
Driving from central London to Thundry Meadows takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Parking is limited near the reserve; visitors should use designated parking areas in Elstead village and walk approximately 10-15 minutes to the reserve entrance. Some rural roads may be narrow.
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Cycling
For active travelers, cycling from Godalming to Thundry Meadows covers roughly 10 km along quiet country lanes and cycle paths. The ride takes about 40-50 minutes. Terrain is mostly flat but includes some gentle hills. Suitable for moderately experienced cyclists.
Thundry Meadows location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Thundry Meadows
Ecological Richness Along the River Wey
Thundry Meadows is a vital wetland nature reserve situated on the southern bank of the River Wey in Elstead, Surrey. Spanning approximately 16 hectares, it forms part of the Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve. The site is renowned for its diverse habitats, including alder carr woodland, marshy grasslands, and a rare quaking mire—a floating mat of vegetation supported by liquid peat. These varied environments support a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity in the region.Flora and Fauna Highlights
Visitors to Thundry Meadows can observe a rich tapestry of wildlife. The grasslands near the entrance are maintained by a small herd of young belted Galloway cattle, whose grazing encourages habitats favorable to harvest mice and reptiles such as grass snakes and common lizards. The reserve’s ponds and ditches, remnants of WWII tank defenses, are home to amphibians, dragonflies, and greater spearwort. Notable plant species include devil’s bit scabious, marsh thistle, and the threatened opposite-leaved golden saxifrage. The site also boasts over 50 bat boxes monitored by local conservation groups, with a WWII pillbox converted into a bat hibernaculum.Conservation and Volunteer Efforts
Thundry Meadows benefits from active management by Surrey Wildlife Trust and dedicated volunteers who control invasive species like Himalayan balsam and hemlock water dropwort to protect native biodiversity. The cattle grazing regime is carefully managed to maintain the grassland’s ecological balance. Conservation efforts also focus on protecting the riverbank from erosion with hazel screens and groynes, helping to restore water forget-me-nots and support iridescent reed beetles, a notable summer insect.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The reserve offers a peaceful and immersive nature experience, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking tranquility. Walking through the fenced compartments reveals changing habitats and the subtle sounds of birds, insects, and flowing water. The quaking mire, with its unusual floating vegetation and raft spiders, provides a unique natural spectacle rarely seen elsewhere in Surrey. Visitors should be cautious of deep water and natural springs while exploring.Historical Context and Landscape Features
The ditches criss-crossing parts of the reserve were originally dug as WWII tank defenses, adding a layer of historical interest to the natural landscape. Veteran birch trees and standing deadwood contribute to the habitat complexity, supporting invertebrates and birds such as goldfinches. The mix of natural springs and acidic soils shapes the reserve’s distinctive plant communities, making Thundry Meadows a living example of Surrey’s wetland heritage.Seasonal Highlights and Best Times to Visit
Thundry Meadows is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is from April to August when wildflowers bloom and insect activity peaks. During these months, the site is alive with color and movement, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation and photography. The peaceful setting and variety of habitats ensure a rewarding visit in any season.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tunsgate Arch
11.4 km
Historic neoclassical arch on Guildford’s High Street, once a bustling cornmarket gateway and now a cherished civic landmark.
King George III & His Horse Statue
29.5 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Staines War Memorial
30.6 km
A dignified Portland stone monument in Staines Market Square honoring local heroes of both World Wars with annual Remembrance ceremonies.
Hilton Reading
32.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern luxury and convenience at Hilton Reading, your ideal base to explore the vibrant city and surrounding attractions.
The Long Walk
33.2 km
Explore Windsor's Long Walk: A Historic Avenue of Beauty, Nature, and Royal Heritage Perfect for Relaxation and Scenic Views.
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
33.2 km
Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
33.3 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
Soldier's Statue
33.4 km
A solemn tribute to Irish Guardsmen, this statue in Windsor honors military service amidst a rich historic townscape.
Historical Windsor
33.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Historical Windsor, the perfect shop to capture the essence of this royal town's heritage.
Ancient well
33.4 km
A humble medieval water source steeped in Windsor's royal heritage and local legend.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
33.5 km
Explore the Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee, a stunning tribute to Queen Elizabeth II in the heart of Windsor, rich with royal history.
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
33.5 km
Explore Windsor's rich history at the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, featuring captivating exhibits on local heritage and royal connections.
Queen Charlotte Street
33.5 km
Discover the enchanting historical charm of Queen Charlotte Street, a must-visit landmark in Windsor, blending rich heritage with vibrant local culture.
The Crooked House of Windsor
33.5 km
Experience the whimsical charm of The Crooked House of Windsor, a unique tea room and tourist attraction with delightful tea and pastries.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
33.5 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Unmissable attractions to see
The White House, Guildford
11.0 km
Discover The White House in Guildford - a charming pub offering delightful food, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere for a true taste of British culture.
Castle Grounds
11.2 km
Historic Norman castle with stunning gardens and panoramic views, a peaceful heritage oasis in the heart of Guildford.
Guildford Castle
11.3 km
Explore Guildford Castle’s Norman Great Tower, scenic gardens, and rich history in the heart of Surrey’s charming town.
Holy Trinity Church
11.5 km
Discover the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of Holy Trinity Church, a must-visit historic landmark in Guildford, England.
Newlands Corner
15.5 km
Experience stunning Surrey Hills panoramas, rich history, and accessible trails at Newlands Corner’s iconic nature reserve.
Silent Pool Distillers
16.9 km
Discover handcrafted artisan spirits at Silent Pool Distillers, nestled beside the legendary Surrey Hills’ Silent Pool.
Shere
17.9 km
Discover Shere, a historic Surrey village where timeless Tudor charm meets tranquil riverside beauty in the heart of the Surrey Hills.
Jane Austen's House
19.9 km
Step into Jane Austen’s cherished Hampshire home where her timeless novels were crafted and history lives on.
RHS Garden Wisley
22.0 km
Explore 240 acres of horticultural brilliance at RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey’s premier botanical garden blending science, beauty, and year-round inspiration.
Parish Church of Saint John the Baptist
22.4 km
A historic and serene Anglican church in West Byfleet, blending early 20th-century architecture with a warm community spirit and rich traditions.
LaplandUK
24.4 km
Step into a winter wonderland at LaplandUK, where festive magic, enchanting elves, and Father Christmas await in a snowy Ascot forest village.
Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow
24.5 km
Explore a tranquil wooded hill in Bracknell crowned by a protected Bronze Age burial mound, blending ancient history with natural beauty.
Lily Hill Park
25.3 km
Discover Lily Hill Park, Bracknell’s award-winning green space with scenic trails, wildlife adventures, and England’s largest picnic table.
Keephatch Park Nature Reserve
26.4 km
A serene 9-hectare nature reserve in Wokingham blending woodlands, meadows, and ponds for peaceful walks and wildlife watching.
Plunket Memorial Viewpoint
26.5 km
Discover serene panoramic views and royal heritage at Plunket Memorial Viewpoint in Surrey’s scenic Valley Gardens.
Essential places to dine
Chalk
26.1 km
Chalk Restaurant offers warm, stylish dining with quality modern English cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in central Wokingham.
The Yorkshire Rose
27.3 km
A warm, independent Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Warfield, blending traditional charm with modern dining and a spacious beer garden.
Winning Post Pub & Dining
28.7 km
Quintessential English country pub in Winkfield offering refined British fare, cosy charm, and welcoming hospitality in a historic 18th-century setting.
1215 Restaurant
28.8 km
Refined British fine dining inspired by history, local produce, and seasonal elegance in the heart of Surrey’s Fairmont Windsor Park.
L'Ortolan
29.5 km
Experience the legacy of L'Ortolan, Reading’s iconic Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant housed in a historic 1840s building.
Caprice Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Reading East
30.1 km
Award-winning modern British and authentic Indian dining in a stylish setting at Crowne Plaza Reading East with a charming terrace and refined afternoon tea.
The Runnymede on Thames Hotel and Spa
30.4 km
Tranquil riverside luxury with spa, pools, and scenic views near historic Runnymede in Egham.
The Shurlock Inn
30.9 km
A charming 17th-century English gastropub blending historic charm with modern British cuisine and a lively bar scene.
The Loch & The Tyne by Adam Handling Old Windsor
31.1 km
A refined yet relaxed modern British gastropub in Old Windsor, blending bold flavors, sustainable sourcing, and rustic charm under chef Adam Handling.
Gurkha Royale Restaurant & Bar
32.2 km
Authentic Himalayan, Indian, and Oriental flavors served in a vibrant, welcoming Windsor venue with exceptional service and a lively atmosphere.
The Alma
32.5 km
A cozy and friendly British pub in Windsor offering classic fare, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming space for families and pets alike.
The Greene Oak
32.6 km
A charming Windsor gastropub blending traditional British pub warmth with seasonal, market-fresh cuisine and stylish dining.
Misugo Japanese Windsor
32.9 km
Authentic Japanese flavors and fresh sushi crafted with passion in a warm, family-run setting in Windsor.
Best Meze Grill
32.9 km
Experience the rich, authentic flavors of Turkish meze and grilled specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Windsor.
Windsor Grill
32.9 km
Experience expertly grilled British and European classics in a relaxed, elegant setting at Windsor Grill in the heart of Windsor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Old Grain Barn Antiques, Berkshire
28.7 km
Discover vintage treasures and artisan crafts in a charming antique barn nestled in Berkshire’s Moss End Garden Village.
Staines Market
30.8 km
Experience the vibrant tradition of Staines Market, where fresh local produce and diverse stalls bring community spirit to Staines High Street.
Vinegar Hill
33.1 km
A curated lifestyle shop in Windsor offering stylish homewares, gifts, and fashion in a warm, boutique setting.
Roz Clarke
33.1 km
Discover chic elegance and personalized style at Roz Clarke, Windsor’s premier boutique for women’s fashion, accessories, and expert styling advice.
Ryad Momo
33.2 km
Discover Moroccan elegance and unique handcrafted gifts at Ryad Momo, Windsor’s charming boutique for exquisite homeware and candles.
Nomad Concept Store
33.2 km
A vibrant concept store and art studio in Windsor, blending vintage fashion, handmade crafts, and spiritual curiosities in a colorful, bohemian space.
Oxfam
33.3 km
Discover unique second-hand treasures and support global causes in Windsor’s historic Oxfam charity shop near Windsor Castle.
Cancer Research UK
33.3 km
Secondhand treasures with purpose—sustainable shopping that funds life-saving cancer research.
Nea Boutique
33.3 km
Discover unique, stylish women's fashion and accessories at Nea Boutique, a charming Windsor boutique with a curated collection and personal service.
Warwicks
33.3 km
A premier men's clothing store nestled in Windsor’s historic Peascod Street, blending classic style with modern shopping charm.
The Works
33.4 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant shopping district.
Next
33.4 km
Next Windsor offers stylish, quality fashion and accessories for all ages in a convenient and welcoming shopping environment.
Craft Coop Windsor
33.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry at Craft Coop Windsor, a welcoming hub for community creativity and bespoke treasures.
Temptation Gifts
33.4 km
Discover unique gifts and over 1,000 greeting cards in Windsor’s welcoming and ever-changing Temptation Gifts store on Peascod Street.
Crew Clothing
33.4 km
Classic British smart casual wear in the heart of historic Windsor, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bull
25.5 km
A vibrant blend of traditional British pub charm and modern hospitality in the heart of Bracknell’s town centre.
The Foundry Bell
25.7 km
A stylish gastropub in Wokingham blending classic British fare, craft ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all occasions.
The Lord Raglan
25.8 km
A vibrant gastropub in Wokingham blending hearty meals, quality drinks, and lively atmosphere in a welcoming setting.
The Kings Arms
29.3 km
Award-winning boutique pub, restaurant, and inn in Egham offering elevated British classics, stylish rooms, and warm hospitality near Windsor.
Turtle Bay Staines
30.7 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors, tropical cocktails, and lively island vibes in the heart of Staines-upon-Thames.
The Three Tuns
31.9 km
Historic Reading pub blending traditional charm with lively bar and restaurant vibes on bustling Wokingham Road.
No5 St Leonards Road
33.2 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Queen Victoria
33.2 km
Step into The Queen Victoria for an authentic 18th-century English pub experience with hearty food, real ales, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere in Windsor.
The Acre
33.3 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Sinner Bar
33.3 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
The Piper Art Bar
33.3 km
Discover a vibrant Scottish-themed bar and contemporary art space in the heart of Windsor, offering an extensive whisky selection and eclectic ambiance.
The Corner House
33.3 km
A lively two-floor pub and sports bar in Windsor, offering great drinks, live sports on HD screens, and versatile event spaces.
The Two Brewers
33.4 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
Milaanj at The Beehive Pub & Restaurant
33.5 km
Discover Milaanj at The Beehive: a rustic village pub in White Waltham serving exquisite British-Indian fusion cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
The Prince Harry
33.5 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
