Richmond Park travel guide

Richmond Park, located in Richmond, England, is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. Created in the 17th century by Charles I as a deer park, it's the largest of London's eight Royal Parks and the biggest enclosed space in the city.

Charles I moved his court to Richmond to escape the plague in London, and in 1637, he decided to create the park as a place where he could hunt deer. The park was initially enclosed using a 8-mile-long wall, a feature that still exists today.

During World War II, Richmond Park was used as an agricultural land to increase food production, and areas of the park were also used for military purposes.

In 1967, Pembroke Lodge became a listed building and home to a popular tea room. Today, Richmond Park is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve, offering a unique blend of wildlife, landscapes and historic architecture to its visitors.

Richmond Park stands out with its unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical monuments. It is known for being the largest of London's Royal Parks and the only one which is a National Nature Reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest, and a European Special Area of Conservation, making the park a haven for biodiversity. The park is home to around 650 free-roaming deer, a spectacle that draws nature lovers and photographers alike.

One of the main landmarks is the Isabella Plantation, a 40-acre woodland garden set within a Victorian woodland plantation, filled with evergreen azaleas, rare trees, and other exotic plants. The park also boasts stunning views of the city from King Henry's Mound, where, on a clear day, visitors can see all the way to St. Paul's Cathedral through a protected 'keyhole' view that has been maintained for nearly 300 years. The park also features the Pembroke Lodge, a Georgian mansion with beautiful gardens, offering a historical charm.

Discover Richmond Park, a prime feature of Richmond, in the vibrant London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.

In the vicinity of Richmond Park, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Richmond, a town in England rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town for an unforgettable adventure.

Richmond Park is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Richmond, England. If you're flying in, Gatwick Airport is approximately 20.6 miles (33.1 km) away from the town center. From there, you can easily reach Richmond Park by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Richmond, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Richmond Park, which is located 1.9 miles (3 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Richmond, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Richmond Park!

The best time to explore Richmond Park is arguably during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During spring, the park comes alive with vibrant colours, making it a perfect time for photography. It is also when the local deer population gives birth, offering an unparalleled wildlife experience. Autumn, on the other hand, is a spectacle of stunning fall foliage and the dramatic deer rutting season. Both seasons offer mild weather and manageable crowd levels. However, summer (June to August) also attracts visitors with its warm weather and the opportunity to enjoy picnics, cycling, and long walks under the sun. If you wish to avoid crowds, early mornings and late afternoons are generally quieter. Richmond Park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the Richmond Runfest in September, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit. Remember that the park opens at 7 am all year round but closing times vary depending on the season, so plan your visit accordingly.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Richmond, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Richmond Park.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic park in England.

Choosing the right accommodation near Richmond Park from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Richmond can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Richmond Park, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Richmond Park, Richmond boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to park, the top attractions in Richmond offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Richmond is Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, located at Richmond, UK. This well-known park enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, National Trust - Ham House and Garden is worth seeing when you're in Richmond. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Ham St, Ham, Richmond TW10 7RS, UK.

This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Richmond Park, Richmond TW10 5HS, UK, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Richmond below to discover even more incredible places to explore.