Ultimate Guide to Richmond Park, Richmond: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Exploring the Serene Beauty of Richmond Park: A Hidden Gem in Richmond

Richmond Park in Richmond is one of London’s most cherished green spaces, offering a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, an enthusiastic photographer or just looking for a relaxing day out, Richmond Park has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about visiting this iconic park.

So, pack your walking shoes, bring your camera, and prepare to be enchanted by the serene beauty of this hidden gem in Richmond.

A Brief History of Richmond Park

Richmond Park, located in the London Borough of Richmond was originally established in the 17th Century by King Charles I as a deer hunting ground.

Spanning over 2,500 acres, it is the largest of London’s Royal Parks. Today, it’s a designated National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), attracting millions of visitors each year.

How to Get to Richmond Park, Richmond

By Public Transport

Richmond Park is easily accessible from Central London. You can take the District Line or South Western Railway to Richmond Station. From there, hop on a bus (routes 371 or 65) or take a 20-minute up-hill walk to the park’s main entrances.

By Car

If you’re driving, there are multiple gates where you can enter Richmond Park, such as Sheen Gate, Richmond Gate, and Kingston Gate. Parking is available inside the park, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and sunny days, so arriving early is recommended.

Things to Do in Richmond Park

1. Spot the Famous Deer

Richmond Park is home to over 600 red and fallow deer, which roam freely throughout the park. These majestic creatures have been residents of Richmond Park since it was created. For the best chance of spotting them, head to areas like Pen Ponds or just outside the fenced off Isabella Plantation.  Remember to keep a safe distance, especially during the rutting season (September to November).

2. Explore the Isabella Plantation

One of the park’s hidden spots is the Isabella Plantation, a 40-acre woodland garden known for its stunning display of flowers, particularly in spring when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom. It’s a tranquil spot perfect for a peaceful stroll. There are also some cute hatted ducks in the pond.

3. Take a Walk or Cycle Around the Park

Richmond Park offers numerous walking and cycling trails, catering to all levels of fitness. The Tamsin Trail, a 7.35-mile circular path, is popular among cyclists, joggers, and walkers. You can also explore the park on horseback, with riding schools like Stag Lodge Stables offering guided horse-riding tours.

4. Enjoy Panoramic Views from King Henry’s Mound

For breathtaking views of London’s skyline, head to King Henry’s Mound adjacent to Pembroke Lodge. On a clear day, you can see as far as St Paul’s Cathedral. This historic viewpoint is said to be where King Henry VIII watched for the signal announcing Anne Boleyn’s execution.

5. Discover the Ancient Oaks near Robin Hood Gate

There’s some interesting fallen trees near Robin Hood Gate with exposed roots, gnarled bark and skeletal shapes in a boggy, marshy expanse of lush grass. Great for taking nature photographs and selfies. It’s a 10- 15 minute walk up to Pen Ponds from here. On my return trek, I was ecstatic to see the herd of red deer who had come out to graze. It was like being on safari in the Serengeti. Honestly, why go to Africa when you can go to Richmond Park!

Where to Eat and Drink in Richmond Park

While there are no large restaurants within the park itself, there are several charming cafes where you can grab a bite to eat.

Pembroke Lodge

Located on Richmond Hill, Pembroke Lodge is a popular spot for afternoon tea with stunning views over the Thames Valley. The lodge has a lovely café and outdoor seating, making it a great place to relax after exploring the park. The menu isn’t large but includes things like hot soup, jacket potatoes, sandwiches and desserts and cakes. They also serve popular warm scones with clotted cream and jam and 12 different types of tea.

Roehampton Café

For a more casual option, stop by Roehampton Café near Roehampton Gate. It’s perfect for a quick snack, offering sandwiches, hot drinks, and ice cream.

On most of the park gates there are mobile vendors offering ice cream, hot drinks and snacks. In terms of seating there are numerous large fallen trees in hideaway places or park benches.

Tips for Visiting Richmond Park

Best Time to Visit

The park is open year round but early mornings are the best time to experience its tranquility and see wildlife.

Accessibility

Richmond Park is wheel-chair friendly with accessible paths and disabled parking spaces available at several car parks.

Dog Friendly

Dogs are welcome in the park but be mindful of the deer and keep your dog on a lead in areas where signs indicate.

Photography

Richmond Park offers fantastic photography opportunities. sunrise and sunset are the best times for capturing stunning landscapes and wild life. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset provide the most flattering light, casting a warm glow over the scenery. Early mornings are particularly magical, as the mist settles over the grasslands, creating an ethereal atmosphere perfect for landscape photography.

For wildlife photography, the areas around Pen Ponds and the meadows are fantastic, where you can capture deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.

Car Parking

Richmond Park is free to enter and free to park. You are invited to make a donation at card reading machines at the various car parks but this is by no means obligatory.

You can only park in the car parks and if you park elsewhere you are liable for a fine. As a result, the car parks get busy, on sunny days and at weekends you are likely to have more luck parking at the furthest car parks from Pembroke Gate.

Check the opening and closing times as you don’t want to get locked in overnight. These times change according to the season.

Toilets

There are toilets at most of the Richmond Park car parks but you’ll need to check a map to ensure that your chosen car park has those facilities.

If you are enjoying this blog post you may like our feature on the nearby botanical wonder  Kew Gardens.

Nearby Attractions in Richmond, London

If you’re looking to extend your visit, Richmond itself is full of charming attractions. Take a leisurely stroll along the River Thames, visit the historic Richmond Theatre, or explore the stunning Kew Gardens, which are just a short distance away.

Conclusion

I have personally visited Richmond Park many times and at different seasons. I once had a memorable New Year’s Day here watching the local, wealthy residents enjoying their tailgate picnics with the air misty and nippy and their flasks steaming. During the Covid  pandemic, I road tested my own Stanley vacuum flask filled with boiling water for tea and taking a lunch beautifully arranged in a Japanese bento box. In May, I felt I was on my own personal African safari when I spotted the deer shown in the above photographs. The great things about Richmond Park, in my view, are the sheer expanse of nature which is as far as the eye can see. The fact that the car parks and entry is free makes a big difference. Where else in London can you have a totally free and memorable day out? And I get a particular thrill when I remember that this is the famed hunting ground of Henry VIII.

So whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a picnic with friends, or a chance to spot deer in the wild, this park has it all.

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We have some other great suggestions for free and nearly free days out. and we hope these practical tips will help you make the most of your day at Richmond Park.

For more information on Richmond Park including any seasonal updates see the official Royal Parks website.

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