Dumsey Meadow

Dumsey Meadow is a protected grassland along the River Thames between Chertsey and Shepperton, covering around 10 hectares. The natural meadow features mixed grasses including rye-grass, common bent, red fescue and Yorkshire-fog, creating a diverse wetland habitat alongside the river.

The site was previously known as Dumsea Bushes, a name referring to a group of willow shrubs. This historic designation, recorded in ancient documents as Domesday Bushes, reveals how the location has been identified with its natural features for centuries.

The site hosts the Chertsey and Shepperton Regatta, a traditional water sports event held during summer months. This gathering brings local people together and creates a focal point for the community's connection to the river.

The meadow is managed through regular grazing by ponies and cattle, which keeps the grassland in its natural state. Visitors should plan to visit during summer months when the vegetation is at its best and the water sports event takes place.

This is the final unfenced water meadow remaining on the River Thames downstream from Caversham. The protected status preserves a rare original landscape structure that few other river sections still maintain.

GPS coordinates: 51.38840,-0.48250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:04