Top 18 Best Things to do in Richmond, London

Richmond is a beautiful suburban area located along the banks of the River Thames in Southwest London. The impressive destination is known for being a favorite retreat for the Royal Family and having an abundance of natural beauty. It is not only blessed with more nature than its inner-city counterparts but there are also plenty of things to do in Richmond, London.

*Scenic view of the River Thames and nature taken from Richmond Hill*

Richmond is home to beautiful gardens, historic houses, hilltop views, a royal palace, scenic riversides, boutique shops, markets, traditional English tearooms, and some amazing pubs. Richmond really does have a variety of awesome things to see and places to hang out. This guide on the top things to do in Richmond, London will help you plan your visit and find fun things to do in the area.

Getting to Richmond by Public Transport

Richmond is easily accessible by public transport. Richmond station and overground train station terminate at the same area. The station is located within the town centre area not far from the High Street.

The district line is the tube line that connects to Richmond whilst London overground trains can be found from many main stations throughout London. Either mode of transport will take you to Richmond Station and overall Richmond is quite easy to get to if you are located in the Greater London area. If you prefer buses, then there are plenty of buses that will take you to various locations around Richmond.

Spot Deer in Richmond Park

Richmond Park was established almost 400 years ago and is London's largest royal park. It is the only park in London that has a population of over 600 deer and you can spot groups of deer huddled together around the park. Large ponds and lakes are likewise scattered throughout this gigantic park with birds like geese, swans, and ducks inhabiting them. This is by far one of London's prettiest parks and you will find no lack of beautiful scenery here.

London's Largest Royal Park will undoubtedly have you walking a lot. There are no cafes or shops located in the forestry of Richmond Park, so make sure to pack well and plan your day in advance. This amazing deer park is the perfect place to have a picnic on a warm summer's day. Wandering through Richmond Park is a great way to escape the busy city center and get in touch with nature again. Photography workshops are available to book online for those looking to capture the amazing wildlife in Richmond Park.

Isabella Plantation

The Isabella Plantation is a 40 Acre Woodland Garden located within the grounds of Richmond Park. It is in fact one of the most beautiful and biodiverse parts of Richmond Park.

Amongst these unique species of plants the Woodland Garden also has a number of ponds, a stream and well kept trees and walking paths. If you enjoy picturesque gardens like Kew then the Isabella Plantation situated in Richmond Park is one of the best places to visit.

Richmond Riverside and Richmond Bridge

Richmond upon Thames is the bustling picturesque riverside area of Richmond. It is within a few minutes walk of Richmond Town Centre and the riverside is very popular with tourists and locals alike. The riverside is quite lively, but there is no shortage of a quiet spot to sit down if you're looking to relax.

This photo is an evening view of the Richmond Upon Thames riverside area in London — *Richmond-Upon-Thames riverside view during the evening*

Richmond's riverside is also famous for the historic Richmond Bridge. The old bridge is Grade I listed and was built between 1774 and 1777. It was designed to replace a former Ferry Crossing that connected Richmond and Twickenham

*Night view of Richmond Bridge along the River Thames*

Richmond Bridge is now a tourist attraction along the Richmond-Upon Thames riverside, and although it still serves as a crossing for cars, just as many tourists now walk this old bridge to experience the breathtaking views. The famous bridge offers some of the best views of the River Thames and the Richmond waterfront, making it a great place to take photos.

Take a Boat Trip from the Richmond Riverside

Boats are available for hire along the riverside of Richmond Upon Thames. You can also book boats for the day through online companies. This ranges from small motor boats to traditional British rowing boats. A boat trip along the River Thames is one of the best things to do in Richmond.

*Riverside boats at Richmond Upon Thames in London*

You will get to see so much of Richmond's amazing scenery along the way and it will be a special experience. This part of the River Thames is not as busy as Central London and instead of the wavey Thames river currents upstream, Richmond-upon-thames will offer you a calm and relaxing experience.

Farmers Market in Heron Square

The farmers market, also known as the Duck Pond Market is located in Heron Square. This small food market is a great addition to the riverside of Richmond Upon Thames. The stalls here sell anything from fresh fruit and vegetables to baked goods and street food.

*Riverside area of Richmond-Upon-Thames in London*

Cheeses and wines are also popular here and along with freshly made crepes. The market is a great place to fill your belly, especially if you're looking for a bite along the Richmond riverside.

Ham Village and Ham House

Ham Village is a picturesque suburban area situated in-between Richmond and Kingston. In this charming village, you will find one of London's earliest historic buildings, Ham House. The magnificent Manor house was constructed around 1600 and is said to be one of London's best National Trust Properties.

The historic house has a vast collection of paintings, furniture and textiles. Ham House is an incredible place to visit, especially if you'r interested in traditional British architecture and classic art.

White Cross Pub

If you are after a cold beer in a historic pub on the river's edge then pay a visit to the White Cross Pub. The pub was built in 1780 and still manages to keep its historic charm today.

The White Cross Pub is hosted along the Richmond-Upon-Thames riverside area and it is so close to the rivers edge that it has actually flooded in the past. The pub serves great food and drinks to a very high standard. The traditional English pub setting adds to its charm, while the riverside scenery and great food make this one of the best pubs to visit in the area.

Richmond Green

Richmond Green is an outdoor recreational area located near Richmond Town Centre. The large outdoor green space is surrounded by nearby attractions. This makes it convenient to visit Richmond Green during your sightseeing in Richmond.

Although Richmond Green is technically a very large park, you will find it is very busy on a summer's day as locals love it here. What makes Richmond Green special is its close proximity to Richmond Palace and Richmond Theatre. I like the idea of having a relaxing pitstop on some outdoor greenery. If you are interested in large scenic green spaces then Richmond Green is surely worth a visit.

Visit Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a Royal Botanic Garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Richmond, London. The gardens hold one of the largest collections of Botanical plants in the world within its huge 300 acres. Although it's not quite as big as Richmond Park there are still multiple greenhouses with different themes of plants, huge ponds, English heritage houses, and vast amounts of open green space to trot to your heart's content.

This is the temperate house, a large greenhouse and one of the main attractions in Kew Gardens — *The Temperate House, a large greenhouse in Kew Gardens*

Christmas themes with special lights and Christmas-themed decorations make it extra magical to visit throughout December too. I personally find it best to visit Kew Gardens during the warmer months of the year. Kew Gardens is an amazing place and I highly recommend visiting.

Kew Gardens is reasonably priced for entry and opened throughout most of the year. You can buy tickets online through the link.

Afternoon tea is also offered at Kew Gardens and many who have tried the afternoon tea here say it is outstanding. This is a relaxing way to reenergize after walking the scenic gardens and its greenhouses all morning. You will need to book the afternoon tea experience in advance

Watch a show at Richmond Theatre

Richmond Theatre is an essential part of the area’s rich history and culture. This architectural masterpiece was built in 1899 and has served as Richmond's main theatre ever since. The Theatre is thought to be one of the most popular in England and they host a variety of shows here. Watching a show at one of England's most historic theatres is definitely at the top of my list of things to do in Richmond London.

Richmond Terrace Gardens and Richmond Hill

Richmond Terrace Gardens is a free public park that hosts a range of colourful flowers in a relaxing idyllic setting. The Gardens were opened to the public in 1887 and are a part of Richmond's rich nature and local history.

Richmond Hill is a large outdoor green space with stunning views of the terrace gardens and the River Thames. The high viewpoint is one of the best places to experience the natural scenic beauty of Richmond.

There are benches in shaded areas of Richmond Hill where visitors can sit and relax and there is plenty of open green space to have a picnic. The area is a truly peaceful place with some of the best views in Richmond.

Visit the Best Pubs in Richmond

Richmond is known for having some of the most historic pubs in London. Excellent pubs which serve great food and drink can be found throughout Richmond. Many of these pubs are located along the riverside areas and are beautifully decorated inside and out. A few of the great historic pubs in Richmond are listed below.

Pubs in Richmond

The Apprentice

The Orange Tree

Express Tavern

The Greyhound - Kew

The White Swan

White Cross

Hanging out at a riverside Beer Garden is one of the best things to do in Richmond London and fortunately, the area has so many options that you might even opt in for a pub crawl.

Newens The Original Maids of Honour

Newens the Original Maids of Honour is a traditional English Tea Room. The tea room is a great place to have afternoon tea after a morning spent walking around the Richmond. The Original Maids of Honour cafe is located on Kew Road and it is most famous for its Maids of Honour tarts and traditional English-baked pastries and cakes.

The British bakery and tea room has a traditional interior that matches the theme of its old English recipes. You can find anything from scones to homemade cakes here, and it's all served at reasonable prices. This cafe is one of my favorites in Richmond, mostly because of its delicious cakes and pastries along with its charming atmosphere.

Visit Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is one of the top attractions in Richmond. The incredible Palace was built as a home for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, an English Statesman and Catholic Bishop. Thomas Wolsey later became less favoured by King Henry viii and ended up giving his palace to the King to regain popularity. King Henry Vii took a liking to Hampton Court Palace, and it became his favourite and most visited house.

*Architecture of Hampton Court Palace in Richmond*

The beautiful palace has so much to see. The gardens are some of the most well-kept gardens you will find anywhere in the world and the architecture is incredible. The Royal Residence allows visitors to see King Henry viii's Kitchen, Royal Court, Haunted Gallery, Maze, and much more.

Guided tours are also available through online tour bookings. This property is huge and the surrounding meadows and gardens make this palace feel like it has come straight out of a fairytale. It is one of my favorite places in Richmond, London and this is an attraction not to be missed.

Go shopping in Richmond's Town Center

Richmond's Town Centre hosts boutique shops, numerous bars, pubs, restaurants, and quaint cobbled streets. The Richmond town centre provides all someone could wish for in a small area walkable area. It's a great shopping area that provides so many options and overall it is the best place to shop in Richmond, London.

River Walk from Richmond to Twickenham

A relaxing walk along the Thames from Richmond to Twickenham is a great way to get the steps in for the day and see some amazing scenery along the way. The walk will take you around 40 minutes and the path is well kept easy to navigate.

*Riverside sunset view of houses along the River Thames in Richmond, London*

Walking along the river from Richmond to Twickenham is a relaxing experience and an effortless way to get some exercise on a sunny afternoon in London.

Marble Hill

Marble Hill is an English Heritage House and Grade I Listed building, built between 1724-1725. It was the home of Henrietta Howard, an English Countess of Suffolk and mistress of King George II. The villa was later the residence of several prominent Royal figures. In 1986 the English Heritage organization acquired the house and like many other heritage houses it has been turned into a museum.

Henrietta Howard decorated her Richmond home with chinoiserie furniture. This is a type of Chinese furniture that was becoming popular during the 18th Century. Marble Hill also houses Chinese classical art and paintings as part of its collection. You will need tickets to enter Marble Hill which you can find on their site. I believe it is worth a visit as the museum is an impressive place, especially if you would like to experience some local history and view some fascinating art.

Hire Paddle Boards and Enjoy the River Thames

Hiring a paddle board is another popular activity along the Richmond Riverside. These are only available to rent during the summer months and can be found at the riverside sheds. Paddleboarding your way through the River Thames and enjoying the scenery is another great way to spend a summer's day in Richmond.

*Scenery of the River Thames in Richmond, London*

The borough of Richmond has so much scenic beauty with places such as Richmond Park, Richmond Hill and Kew Gardens all within the same area. Richmond's natural attractions coupled with its historic houses and great pubs make it one of the best areas in London to explore.