5 Best Things To Do Around Richmond Park

5 Best Things To Do Around Richmond Park

1. Circle the Park

Wikimedia Commons

Richmond Park proudly bears the title of London’s largest Royal Park. I’s sheer size is not to be sniffed at, and is something that has to be seen to be believed. Spanning an impressive 2,500 acres, the park boasts views of up to 12 miles away at its highest point, and is famous for its many ancient oak trees, some of which are thought to be over 500 years old. With so much space to roam around, Richmond Park is the perfect place for a long walk to burn off some steam, but completing a full circuit of the park isn’t for the faint of heart.

The trail which offers the most complete route around the park is the Tamsin Trail, a route suitable for both cyclists and those on foot. The track is over 7 miles long and typically takes between 2.5 and 4 hours, depending on your walking pace. It’s mostly flat with some climbs and gentle declines, so bring comfortable walking shoes. Along the way you’ll encounter a few key viewing spots, including Sawyer’s Hill and King Henry’s Mound, from which you can see incredibly far views of the main city of London. Don’t forget to bring a camera to snap some pictures of the park’s famous deer; if your group is quiet enough you’ll be sure to see some.

2. Visit Hampton Court Palace

Wikimedia Commons

No trip to the Richmond Park would be complete without a trip to the world famous Hampton Court Palace, legendary home of King Henry VIII. Whether you’re a fan of The Tudors TV series, or just a history buff, the Palace has a wealth of history and fascinating things to view.

Home of the Royal Family from 1529 to 1737, the palace saw generations of kings and queens pass through its gilded halls, from the six unfortunate wives of Henry VIII, the doomed King Charles I, and the last Stuart monarch Queen Anne. It was both a palace and a prison to many who lived there, and is still said to be haunted to this day.

Luckily for the general public, the Palace gates have been open since 1838, allowing visitors to witness the grand corridors, extraordinary architecture and manicured grounds of this most grand of royal residences. Admission tickets can be bought online and on the day, the palace regularly hosts different special events suitable for families and older visitors. Highlights of the Palace include it’s famous hedge maze, arguably one of the most famous of its kind in the world, which has been confusing explorers for centuries. If you prefer to head indoors, check out the fascinating Tudor kitchens, still preserved in their original state.

Tickets and more information can be found here

3. Take a horse drawn carriage ride

Royal Parks Online

What could be more magical than a horse drawn carriage ride through Richmond Park’s picturesque fields? If you’re visiting in winter, Richmond Park offers this very special experience from November through to January. The lovingly preserved carriage provides all the luxury of a bygone era, and is smoothly drawn by a team of two majestic shire horses.

The experience is 90 minutes long, and takes through the main parts of the park and also includes a behind the scenes visit to the working stables. Don’t worry about the winter chill in the air, as cosy blankets are provided to keep you toasty.

Whether the occasion is the birthday of a special someone, an important anniversary, or just an extra romantic date night, nothing says “I care” quite like this most timeless of experiences.

Find more information here

4. Discover some of the park’s hidden gems

Wikimedia Commons

While it may be most famous for its towering trees and wide open spaces, Richmond Park also has a wealth of lesser known nooks and crannies for you to discover during your visit. Many of these activities are also free of charge, as everyone has a right to enjoy this open and refreshing natural space. Pay a visit to the Isabella Plantation, and park within a park, to witness its incredible year-round colours and blooms, where the density of the foliage makes it peaceful even during the most busy times. Once you’re done there, consider a bird walk to really appreciate the diversity of the species which call the park home.

If you fancy a bit of culture on your visit, try and catch a Shakespeare production at the adjacent Ham House, an imposing stately home located just a short walk away from the main park. If all that exercise has left you hungry and thirsty, there’s no better place to take a break than the adorable Hollyhock Cafe. It’s a riverside sanctuary with bags of fairy tale charm and a great view of the Thames. Serving up fresh and healthy food all year round, and focused on organic living, the cafe is the perfect way to round off your Richmond Park visit.

5. Dine at a top restaurant

Wikimedia Commons

While you won’t find a Michelin-starred restaurant tucked away among the trees of Richmond Park, the surrounding area of Richmond is affluent and bustling, providing the perfect opportunity to seek out some world class dining experiences.

One of the most famous eateries nearby is at the Petersham Nurseries, a garden centre and eating destination popular with sophisticated London dwellers and trendy young people. Expect a fresh Italian inspired menu in the beautiful greenhouse surroundings. If you love big name luxury, make sure to try The Ivy Richmond, for classic British food in a classy setting. For a Thames-side spot, try The Bingham Riverhouse, a spacious afternoon and evening venue. Whatever kind of food you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your appetite in Richmond’s vibrant suburban culinary scene. Afterwards, while there’s not much in the way of nightlife or clubs, don’t forget to sample some of Richmond’s classy, fun and unusual bars, if only to rehydrate yourself after all that walking!