Queen Elizabeth II and members of the royal family have visited Runnymede, Surrey, to celebrate the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta.

The charter was first agreed in 1215 between King John of England and a group of rebel barons. It helped to form the basis of the British Constitution, protecting the rights and freedoms of people and ensuring the king was subject to the law rather than above it.

Thousands of people gathered at Runnymede Pleasure Ground for the 800th anniversary River Relay, featuring the Queen's Gloriana, the unveiling of the Queen's statue and the Great Charter Festival at Royal Holloway.

The Band of HM Royal Marines Portsmouth entertained the crowds with music.

Her Majesty is joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, the Duke of Cambridge and Princess Anne and her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.

Magna Carta: How the historic charter changed Britain forever IBTimes UK