557, Sunbury-on-Thames to Chertsey and Addlestone

Journey Overview

This is a terrific trip that starts outside Tesco in Sunbury with the 557 bus then meandering its way over the M3 past Upper Halliford railway station into Shepperton then down the pretty High Street to the War Memorial with its floral displays. The 557 then travels alongside the greenery of Manor Park and through Shepperton Village Square with the delightful church on the left, looming high over the banks of the Thames, looking onto Desborough Island.

Through Shepperton old village then it’s out onto the open Chertsey Road, fields either side and with a tantalising glimpse of Dumsey Meadow before the Thames emerges and its over the famous river at Chertsey Bridge. There’s a real historical feel as Chertsey High Street is then devoured, with its old fashioned array of terraced houses, colourful cottages and a rollercoaster from Thorpe Park on the horizon.

The scenery gets more rural as Ottershaw emerges, with its perfectly manicured gardens, then we’re back to a more urban setting as Addlestone approaches, the cinema on the right, model railway shop opposite the Wimpy Restaurant yards from Tesco, where this truly enthralling journey comes to its end.

A Fab Day Out!

Starting the journey on the bus, the first stop to get off is in Shepperton High Street with breakfast at Café Mocha-D. This cosy café is loved by locals for its hearty breakfasts, freshly baked pastries, and specialty coffees. Enjoy a leisurely start while watching the early morning bustle along High Street and maybe a walk down to the old village and peruse of the river by the beautiful Shepperton Parish Church. The bus can be picked up again here and the journey continued to Chertsey, a town steeped in history. Take a quick stroll around Chertsey Abbey, founded in the 7th century, where the ruins tell stories of medieval monastic life. Nearby, wander along the River Thames towpath or through the quaint streets lined with independent shops and traditional pubs. If time allows, pop into Chertsey Museum, which showcases local heritage, including artifacts from the abbey and the town’s industrial past.

Hop on the bus to Addlestone, a short ride east of Chertsey. Addlestone combines modern amenities with a sense of local community. The town centre offers a mix of high-street shops and independent stores for browsing. Green spaces like Addlestone Recreation Ground are ideal for a walk or a relaxed picnic, while for dining, Addlestone has several cafés and eateries where you can enjoy lunch or an early dinner. Traditional pubs, such as The George or The Hand & Spear, offer hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere, so too does the spic and span Wimpy Bar where owner Geoff is renowned for his amazing customer service!

This route from Sunbury to Addlestone blends riverside charm, history, and community-focused suburban life. With a hearty breakfast, a glimpse into Chertsey’s past, and an afternoon in Addlestone, it makes for a relaxed, culturally interesting journey, ideal for a short day trip.