Staines

They were attracted to Staines because of the River Thames, the town’s close proximity to London and the geological make up of the town.

The Domesday name of 'Stanes' is understood to refer to a ring of 9 stones that is believed to have existed in Staines, known as the 'Ningen Stones'. It is believed that they were once a boundary marker. In fact, there are many boundary stones along the River Thames in Staines, dating from neolithic times to today. A more recent example is the 'London Stone' which marked London's western boundary (the original of which can be found in the Spelthorne Museum whilst a replica exists at the original location). The museum also exhibits many archaeological findings from the Roman era along with a range of prehistoric discoveries.

Today, however Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to it's impressive retail areas of The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers daily.

Staines offers a wealth of activities for all age groups. Beautiful walks along the Thames Path link up Memorial Gardens to the Lammas Recreation Ground and Laleham Park, both equipped for spending a relaxing day by the river and Staines town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offers a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs. Close to Laleham Park, Laleham village centre has a range of 18th and 19th century buildings and country-style pubs.

Travel to and from Staines is simple. Staines railway station is on a direct line with London Waterloo, Richmond and Windsor and there is a coach link from the railway station direct to Thorpe Park. Riverboat trips connect Staines with Windsor, Runnymede and Hampton Court, with stops at Shepperton and Sunbury. Staines also has a bus station with connections to many local towns and villages.