The Virginia Water Lake Walk offers a fascinating 5.2-mile (8.4 km) route around one of Windsor Great Park’s most picturesque locations. Along the way, you’ll encounter notable landmarks such as the cascading waterfall, Roman ruins, an Obelisk, and a striking Totem Pole. Steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty, this easy, stile-free walk combines the charm of landscaped gardens with the allure of historical monuments.
Easy and breathtaking, this walk just outside London is ideal for any city dweller looking to escape from the city.
Pro tip: Visit in autumn for a breathtaking display of vibrant foliage that transforms the landscape into a golden-hued wonderland.
Logistics of the Virginia Water Lake Walk
- Distance:5.2 miles (8.4 km)
- Ascent: 125 ft (38 m)
- Highest Point: 223 ft (68 m)
- Lowest Point: 108 ft (33 m)
- Walking Estimate: 2 hours and 10 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
How to get there:
- Start: Train to Virginia Water and then walk 35 minutes / Train to Egham and bus 500 to The Wheatsheaf
- Return: Walk to Virginia Water Station or bus 500 to Church Road
What to Pack
- Essentials: Snacks, water, and a backpack. There are options in the park to eat.
- Weather Prep: The path is exposed so come prepared for rain (waterproof, headcover) or shine (sunscreen, sunglasses and headcover)
Additional Information
- Toilets are visitors’ toilets at the entrance Pavillion and at the Savill Pavillion
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
Where to eat and drink:
- Gallery Café, Savill Pavillion
- The Savill Garden Kitchen, Savill Pavillion
- Virginia Water Café, Main Entrance Pavillion
Virginia Water Lake Walk Map
Do you want to do this walk? Simply download the free GPS map by clicking on the button below. Learn how to upload the map onto your navigation app by following my step-by-step guide here.
Highlights of the Virginia Water Lake Walk
- Virginia Water Lake
- Windsor Great Park
- The Cascade
- The Leptis Magna Ruins
- The Fishing Lodge
- The Five-Arch Bridge
- The Guard Polo Club
- The Prince Albert’s Statue
- The Cumberland Obelisk
- Savill Building
- The Totem Pole
The Virginia Water Lake Walk
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the walk itself.
Virginia Water Lake: A bit of history
Virginia Water Lake, nestled at the southern edge of Windsor Great Park, is a historic gem dating back to the 18th century. Originally envisioned as a royal pleasure ground by William Augustus, son of King George II, the lake’s construction began in 1752. Streams were dammed, valleys flooded, and the landscape reshaped under the guidance of architect Henry Flitcroft. Despite setbacks, including a devastating storm in 1768, the project was completed in 1790 under King George III’s patronage.
Once England’s largest man-made lake, Virginia Water has played a role in both leisure and history. During World War II, it was even drained to prevent it from being used as a navigational marker for enemy aircraft targeting Windsor Castle. Today, it remains a beautifully maintained site, blending natural beauty with rich history—a perfect starting point for your walk.
The Cascade
As we start our walk, facing the lake with the entrance Pavilion behind us, take a left and follow the signs toward The Cascade.
The Cascade at Virginia Water Lake is a striking 30-foot waterfall that marks the lake’s outlet, where water flows gracefully into the River Bourne. Completed in March 1789, it was originally part of early designs that included a grotto. The Cascade is fed directly by the lake, making its flow dependent on water levels. After heavy rainfall, it becomes especially dramatic, offering visitors a picturesque and immersive experience. Today, it remains one of the most beloved highlights of Windsor Great Park.
The Leptis Magna Ruins
Continue your walk around the lake, and soon you’ll reach the Leptis Magna Ruins.
These artefacts, gifted to the Prince Regent (later King George IV) in 1816, originated from the ancient Roman city of Leptis Magna in modern-day Libya. This city was a thriving hub of trade and grand architecture during the Roman Empire. Relocated from the British Museum to Windsor Great Park in 1826, the ruins were arranged into an ornamental folly by architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville, creating a picturesque feature within the park. Carefully restored in 2009, they are now protected by a fence, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient civilization.
The Fishing Lodge
As you continue, look toward the opposite shore of the lake, where the Fishing Temple once stood.
Built in 1825 under Sir Jeffry Wyatville’s direction, this retreat was later decorated in an ornate Chinese style by Frederick Crace. It became a favourite leisure spot for King George IV, who hosted royal picnics and fishing excursions there. The temple was replaced in 1867 by a Swiss-style fishing cottage, which stood until its demolition in 1936.
The Five-Arch Bridge
Not far from the viewpoint over the former Fishing Temple, you’ll find a stone bridge.
The Five-Arch Bridge, constructed between 1822 and 1827 under Sir Jeffry Wyatville’s supervision, is a remarkable example of enduring design. It replaced previous wooden and stone bridges dating back to the 18th century. Wyatville’s robust construction has remained largely unchanged for nearly two centuries,
Walk across the bridge to continue your journey along the lake’s opposite shore.
The Guard Polo Club
Follow the path lined with trees, which display stunning autumn colours.
Eventually, the trees give way to open fields, revealing the Guards Polo Club, one of Europe’s most prestigious polo institutions.
Founded in 1955 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the club initially served members of the Household Brigade before opening to civilian members in 2000. Hosting over 500 matches yearly, it includes ten pitches and iconic events like the Cartier Queen’s Cup and Royal Windsor Cup.
Walk past the fields until you reach the Prince Albert Statue, unveiled by Queen Victoria in 1890. It commemorates his contributions to the Windsor Estate, including the construction of worker cottages and the establishment of The Royal School, which still operates today.
The Cumberland Obelisk
A kilometre further, you’ll arrive at the Cumberland Obelisk.
Commissioned by King George II around 1750, this 26.2-meter-high obelisk honours Prince William, Duke of Cumberland, a military leader and former Ranger of Windsor Great Park. Originally inscribed with “Culloden” to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Culloden, Queen Victoria later changed the engraving to “CUMBERLAND.”
Set amidst the tranquil Obelisk Lawn, overlooking Obelisk Pond, this is an ideal spot for a peaceful walk or picnic. A play area for children and the Savill Building are also nearby.
The Savill Building
The Savill Building, located at the entrance to The Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park, is a stunning feat of sustainable design and architectural ingenuity. Opened in 2006, it features the largest timber gridshell roof in the UK, an undulating, three-domed structure made from locally sourced larch and oak. This innovative design beautifully reflects the surrounding landscape while showcasing a seamless blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern engineering.
Visitors will find a restaurant, café, and gift shops inside—perfect for a break. The building also serves as the main entrance to The Savill Garden, a beautifully landscaped ornamental garden spanning 35 acres.
The Totem Pole
After a well-deserved break at the Savill Building, it’s time to complete our loop around the picturesque Virginia Water Lake.
Our final landmark is the Totem Pole. However, depending on when you’re reading this, it may no longer be standing, as plans for its removal have been made.
The Totem Pole at Virginia Water, a striking 30.5-meter monument was gifted to Queen Elizabeth II by the people of Canada in 1958 to celebrate the centenary of British Columbia as a Crown Colony. Carved from a 600-year-old Western Red Cedar tree by Chief Mungo Martin and his team, it features intricate figures symbolizing the myths and ancestors of the Kwakwaka’wakw people. After more than six decades, the pole has reached the end of its natural lifespan. Plans are in place to lower it, allowing it to return to nature in a way that honours the traditions and intentions of its creators.
And this is how our walk draws to a close. Happy exploring!
FAQ
It takes approximately 2 hours to complete the circuit around Virginia Water Lake when following the route closest to the water. If you choose to include a detour past the Savill Building, plan for an additional 10 minutes.
Yes, entry to Virginia Water Lake is free, but some amenities and activities may require a booking fee.
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Final Thoughts on the Virginia Water Lake Walk
Virginia Water Lake is a place where natural beauty and rich history intertwine. As you walk its scenic paths, you’ll encounter striking landmarks like the Five Arch Bridge, the ancient ruins of Leptis Magna, and the Prince Consort Statue. Whether you’re exploring for the views, the history, or simply a peaceful escape, Virginia Water offers a rewarding experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
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