55 Things to Do in Richmond

Because of these regal links, as well as its London postcode, Richmond is home to some wildly expensive - and impressive - property. But for those of us who are just visiting, it’s a place to come and drink Pimms on the riverside, soaking up the town’s elegance and air of gentility. 

Although there’s a population of only twenty thousand here, there are a huge number of things to do in Richmond. The area’s perhaps known best for its pleasant green spaces and conservation areas, which are even more of a boon when you consider Richmond’s proximity to the urban sprawl of London.

With Richmond’s healthy collection of parks, gardens, and historic houses, it’s a town that’s hard to resist, seducing visitors with its quaintness and charm. Come and see for yourself what makes Richmond so special. 

Chill out at Richmond’s Riverside and Richmond Bridge

You’ll immediately begin to understand the vibe of Richmond when you visit the riverside area. Laid back, but still bustling, this is one of the most popular places to hang out during those long summer afternoons. Whether you stay for an hour or the whole day, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and attractions here to keep you satisfied. 

Also along this Richmond-based stretch of river is Richmond Bridge, the oldest surviving bridge over the River Thames. Dating back to 1776, it was built with classic stone arch construction and joins Richmond on one side with East Twickenham on the other.

Expand your knowledge at the Museum of Richmond

When exploring a new town, it’s easy to forget how much has happened to its people, places, and buildings in bygone years. However, through a curated collection of artefacts of cultural significance, the Museum of Richmond shares the history of Richmond in an accessible and interesting way, helping to contextualise this centuries-old part of London.

Kew Gardens attractions

As well as being beautiful, Kew Gardens is of huge botanical importance internationally. It’s a World Heritage Site, and with over 50,000 plants growing at any one time, budding horticulturalists are in for a treat when they visit.

• Look over London from The Great Pagoda, Kew

The Chinese-inspired Great Pagoda, designed especially for Kew Gardens founder Princess Augusta, is almost 250 years old. It provided some of the earliest long-ranging views over London and, following extensive refurbishment in 2018, guests are once again able to enjoy the stunning vistas on a private tour. 

• Appreciate art at the Gallery of Botanical Art

Before photography became commonplace, painted representations of plants and flowers were incredibly important for scientific, culinary, and medicinal purposes. Kew Gardens holds an archive of over 200,000 works of botanical art and the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art is where you’ll find a selection of the best, displayed as part of the frequently changing exhibitions. The gallery is named after Dr Shirley Sherwood, who expounds the scientific value of these precious works and who has collected over 1,000 botanical paintings from artists all over the world. 

• Marianne North Gallery

If your appetite for botanical art remains after visiting the Shirley Sherwood Gallery, you can also pay the Marianne North Gallery a visit. North was a pioneering woman who turned her back on the social norms of the 1800s in favour of travelling the world alone, exploring all the exotic plant life she could find. Unusually for the time, she painted plants in their natural settings, and over the years, she created a huge body of botanical art, over 800 pieces of which are now displayed in this inspirational gallery. 

• Learn about the Royals at Kew Palace

Kew Palace dates back to 1631 and was originally built for a wealthy London silk merchant. The Palace was later used by several Georgian Royal family members as a place to escape their duty-filled lives, somewhere they could live relatively normally. One occasional resident was George III, whose battles with mental health issues are documented, alongside accounts of other famous Royal residents, in this beautiful mansion. 

• Stroll around the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens are the jewel in the crown of Kew Gardens. From roses to waterlilies, rock gardens to arboretums, whatever your plant preference, you’re sure to find something to inspire you here. There are specialist areas ready to be explored, including climate-controlled tropical and alpine zones. Opening hours vary throughout the year, but allow at least a couple of hours to visit the many gardens - you won’t be disappointed.  

• Seek out the Princess of Wales Conservatory

If venus flytraps are your thing, we recommend you pay a visit to the Princess of Wales Conservatory, where you can experience the ecosystem that supports these meat-eating horror-inspiring plants. Venture through the tropics to see some rare and quite beautiful cacti, then move on to the humidity of the tropics where sensual lilies grow in abundance. 

Interesting tidbit: In 1985, a capsule containing plant seeds was buried in the foundations of the Conservatory by the now Sir David Attenborough. The capsule will be opened in 2085, by which time some of the plants contained within may well have become extinct.

• Explore the Bamboo Garden and Minka House

Bamboo has recently been growing in popularity for use in domestic gardens, but it’s unlikely you’ll have seen anything on this scale before. One of the world’s fastest-growing plants, there are 130 different species in the Bamboo Garden at Kew, from as far afield as Japan and the Himalayas. Deep within the bamboo jungle, you’ll find a historic Minka house, which until the 1900s, was a traditional home for people living in the Japanese countryside. 

That’s dedication: Kew Garden’s Minka was donated by Japan in 2001 and painstakingly moved to London where it was rebuilt for the pleasure of Kew’s visitors. 

• Visit Kew Gardens with Afternoon Tea

After tiring yourself out exploring the 326 acres of Kew Gardens, what better way to rejuvenate than by enjoying an indulgent Kew Gardens afternoon tea experience? The lucky giftee and a person of their choosing (you, hopefully!) will be treated to a Kew Gardens all-day entry pass. Then they can choose from three tempting afternoon tea options - vegetarian, traditional, or gardener’s - and soak up the sights, sounds, and scents in Kew’s beautiful Botanic Restaurant overlooking the Pond and Palm House. 

Play Board Games at The Library Pot

For some informal fun, the quirky Library Pot is a lovely nook for some time-out with friends. On paper, simply a restaurant, but in reality much more, the Library Pot offers diners the opportunity to get down to some serious board gaming while they eat. 

Take a seat at Richmond Theatre

The Richmond Theatre is a beautiful Victorian red brick and terracotta building situated in the heart of Richmond, next to the town’s pretty Little Green. Built around 120 years ago, the traditional - and now extensively renovated - interior has been used in a wide range of TV productions and films, including Evita and Finding Neverland.  

The theatre plays host to over 40 productions each year, ranging from classic theatre shows to opera, and perennial family favourite, the Christmas pantomime.

Step back in time at Ham House

Approaching Ham House in spring, the striking symmetry of the red brick exterior fronted by a carpet of flowers makes a real statement. Built in the 1600s, this National Trust-managed property was gifted to William Murray by childhood friend King Charles I in 1626. Murray developed a home filled with opulence and luxury, and Ham House has become a rarity, as it has barely changed since its heyday hundreds of years ago. Visitors can enjoy the run of the house from 12-3.30pm each day, with architectural explanations and guided tours of the walled and kitchen gardens making for a thoroughly enjoyable day out.

Watch a polo match at Ham Polo Club

Right next door to Ham House is Ham Polo Club, where players convene to play a match of what is one of the world’s oldest team games. With 25 acres of grounds, this club opens up to non-members for regular brunch events from May to September, where visitors can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in a match of this classic horseback sport.

Try Stand Up Paddleboarding

Fancy trying something a little bit different while in Richmond? Ideal for an inventive date, this stand up paddleboarding experience will provide an opportunity to bond with your lucky companion, as you learn a new skill and share some laughs along the way. 

Visit Teddington Locks

Teddington locks is a series of three locks built between the early 1800s and 1900s. The original pound lock was the first of its kind in London, but it couldn’t control the changing water levels for long, so a second lock was built a few decades later. The third and largest lock was built in 1904 and is a whopping 650-feet wide. The setting of these locks is quite stunning and is definitely worth a look, perhaps also enjoying a leisurely lunch in one of the nearby riverside pubs.

Get educated at The National Archives

The byline of the National Archives is ‘Explore 1000 years of history’ - and who could resist? Avoiding the potential for stuffiness, this is a thrilling destination for people wanting to dig a little deeper into British history. Encouraging private research, but equally developing exhibits that are interesting and educational for a wide-ranging audience, The National Archives has managed to make British national documents a little bit sexier than you might expect.

Learn how to Scuba Dive

Look upon this fantastic scuba diving experience as preparation for your next tropical holiday, where you’ll be able to explore deep under the clear, turquoise waters with confidence. 

In this introductory session, you and your diving companion will be taught the basics of scuba by a diving expert in a local Richmond swimming pool. All the gear will be provided and the knowledge you gain can be put to good use should you choose to continue your scuba training, as this enjoyable day out can be counted towards PADI Open Water Diver certification.

Reach the summit of Terrace Gardens

You’ll have to negotiate a steep walk up to Terrace Gardens, but once you make it, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views all around. Take a leisurely stroll around the gardens, exploring the trails that criss-cross this favourite local haunt, breathing in the fresh air and the perfume from the garden’s plants and flowers.

Enjoy Richmond Hill Viewing Point

At the very summit of Terrace Gardens, you’ll find the Richmond Hill Viewing Point, the highest point of Terrace Gardens, and the place you’ll find the best views of all, looking out over the surrounding landscape, including the Thames Basin. Take a few snaps from up here, as it’s not a view you’ll find anywhere else.

Explore Barnes Village

Barnes Village is described as one of the nicest parts of Richmond-upon-Thames. And knowing how lovely the borough is as a whole, that’s no small accolade. Located to the northeast of Richmond, Barnes straddles the River Thames and is a conservation area with abundant 18th- and 19th-century architecture. The village also boasts London’s oldest riverside properties, dating back to 1720. It’s a lovely place to take a stroll, soak up the arty atmosphere and maybe take on the enjoyable 2.3-mile Barnes Trail.

Historic Pubs

An area steeped in as much history as Richmond is bound to offer some historic pubs. Here are some of the oldest - and the best.

• The Old Ship

Not far off 200 years old, The Old Ship is a quintessential English pub, with blazing fires, hearty food, and a great selection of traditional ales. With a courtyard beer garden and serving up a mean Sunday roast, it’s easy to see why this pub is so popular. 

• The Cricketers

This is one of Richmond’s truly historic pubs, dating back as far as 1770. Located on The Green, The Cricketers is a favourite place to hang out during the summer, and is also popular with cricket fans who meet here before the legendary Twickenham cricket matches that take place nearby.  

• The Prince’s Head

Another Stuart-era pub dating back to 1705 is The Prince’s Head. Three hundred years later, this attractive watering hole, with its tables overlooking Richmond Green, offers punters food and drink options guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning of diners.

Join a Richmond weekend walking tour

If you want to be guided through some of the best attractions Richmond has to offer, perhaps consider taking a weekend walking tour. A local expert will take you through some of the most attractive parts of the area, exploring popular suburbs, the lovely riverside, and of course, the area’s most noteworthy parks.

Sit back and relax on a Thames River Cruise

Taking in Richmond from the water is a great way to fully appreciate the beauty and refinement of the borough. With regular cruises picking up in Richmond, the Thames River Boats company offers trips to popular Kew, Westminster, and Hampton Court. There are also circular tours for those who want to see it all.

Hone your craft on a landscape photography course

You’ll be picking up from this ‘Things to do in Richmond’ list that much of the area’s appeal comes from enjoying its outdoor spaces. But don’t just rely on your memory to record the scenes in front of you, take part in this one-day landscape photography course and you can freeze the moment in time forever. 

Your pro-photographer guide will explain the technicalities of aperture, shutter speed, lighting, and composition, after which you’ll practice your newfound skills, producing some top-quality images you can be proud of.

Marvel at the Kings Observatory

Located in Richmond’s Old Deer Park, Kings Observatory was the brainchild of King George III, who wanted to watch the planet Venus as it travelled across the face of the sun in 1769. Passing through many hands over the years, the building and grounds in which it sits are protected, allowing birds, insects, and wildlife to thrive. In 2019, The Kings Observatory - for the first time - was opened to the general public. Although now closed, it plans to open again, due to the overwhelming public demand that was generated.

Take in some arthouse cinema at the Curzon

The perfect antidote to other cinemas lacking on the soul front, the Curzon Richmond is a traditional cinema, where customer experience is top of the priority list. It’s a small place, but that only adds to its appeal. The Curzon serves up a carefully curated selection of blockbuster and arthouse films, as well as regularly hosting theatre and opera shows. The cherry on the top - they sell wine and snacks to enjoy while you watch!

Recreate Georgian days at Marble Hill House

The Roman-inspired villa of Marble Hill House was built in Georgian times for King George II’s mistress, Henrietta Howard. Designed as a place to escape the constant noise and dirt of London in the 18th century, the appealing design and beautiful 66 acres of gardens provide just as appealing a proposition to visitors today as they would have done almost 300 years ago.

Catch a show at the Orange Tree Theatre

Orange Tree Theatre is an independent theatre company working out of a theatre of the same name in Richmond. Producing both newly written and older, rediscovered plays, the theatre offers guests an unusual set-up, where the audience is seated surrounding the players. Performing sometimes challenging, but always entertaining plays, Orange Tree Theatre is enjoyed by audiences totalling over 70,000 each year.

Things to do in Richmond Park

• Isabella Plantation

This garden is set within a 40-acre woodland planted in the 1830s and opened to the public in the 1950s. Home to Rhododendrons, Camellias, and being particularly rich in Azaleas, Isabella Plantation will appeal in particular to visitors with a passion for flowers.

• Operation Centaur

Operation Centaur is a horse riding stable, but also a popular attraction, offering visitors festive horse-drawn carriage rides around Richmond Park in the winter. The carriages are pulled by working Shire horses who, out of season, live at Hampton Court Palace.  

• King Henry’s Mound

King Henry’s Mound is probably a misnomer, as it’s unlikely this mound has anything to do with the controversial King Henry VIII. Instead, it’s likely to be an ancient burial mound, later used by hunters as a viewpoint. Still, it’s a worthwhile spot to visit, admiring the far-reaching views over the Thames Valley. 

• Go fungus hunting

In Richmond Park, you can justifiably say ‘there’s a fungus among us’ as you hunt for the 400 different species found here. The fungi mustn’t be picked though, as they have an important role in supporting the ecosystem of the whole park, helping plants to access the nutrients they need to survive. 

• Richmond Park Golf Course

You could be forgiven for missing the Richmond Park Gold Course clubhouse, as it’s camouflaged by its quirky grass roof. Part of a £3 million set of improvements, the golf course now offers extensive facilities, including 36-holes on the Duke and Prince’s courses, a driving range, plus a bar and restaurant for after the golfing is done. 

• Go fishing in Pen Ponds

Pen Ponds is open from June to March for permit-only fishing. It’s also a great place to spot water birds, who have been living here since the two-part lake was first dug out back in the 1700s. 

• Learn how to power-kite

Why not get your adrenaline pumping by learning how to power kite? Instruction is available in Richmond Park, where you can choose to kite from a sitting position in a buggy, or standing up on what’s known as a landboard. It’s exciting either way!

• Explore the park by bike

Enter Richmond Park by Roehampton Gate and you’ll be able to hire a bike to tour the thousands of acres of parkland. It’s a useful way to explore more widely than you could on foot and is a fun activity for everyone in the family.

• Take a seat on the ‘Reasons To Be Cheerful’ bench

For those of us old enough to remember, Ian Dury was the singer with the Blockheads, famous for songs like ‘Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick’. In memory of Ian, who was a regular visitor to Richmond Park and who sadly died in 2000, the ‘Reasons To Be Cheerful’ bench was donated by his family in his memory. 

• Peer through ‘The Way’ - St Paul’s Tercentenary Gates

To coincide with St Paul’s Cathedral celebrating its 300th anniversary in 2011, a set of gates called ‘The Way’ were commissioned to reflect the architectural features of the famous cathedral. You can admire the gates up close, or view them from the telescope at King Henry’s Mound, where you can also see St Paul’s Cathedral ten miles away. 

Things to do in Richmond with kids

• Richmond Pools On The Park

Outdoor swimming pools are quite difficult to find these days, but right inside Richmond Park is the lovely Pools on the Park complex. With an indoor and outdoor pool, kids are spoiled for choice. Not too cold, with lovely views and a dedicated kids area, this is spot on. 

• Go Ape Battersea Park 

Only a couple of miles from Richmond is the treetop wonderland of Go Ape Battersea Park, where brave little apes can have a go at the specially designed kids trail complete with wobbly bridges and zip-wires. With food and drinks, and playgrounds galore, why not make a day of it?

• Richmond Murder Mystery Trails

Let your kids become the detective on this Richmond Murder Mystery Trail. Find out more about the area while getting fresh air and exercise, plus clever little ones who solve the mystery might just win £100 in the monthly draw. Suitable for ages 6 and up.

• Petersham Gate Playground - Richmond Park

Playgrounds are always a popular option for kids, and in Richmond Park, there are two to choose from, including the Petersham Gate Playground. With nature-themed areas, including a sandpit, bark pit, and water play, this is perfect for burning off excess energy, while mini musicians can play a tune on the elephant xylophone.

• Treetop Walkway

There’s something magical about being up in the trees. So this Treetop Walkway at Kew Gardens is sure to enchant children big and small. At 18 metres high, the trail encourages visitors to notice the masses of wildlife that live up in the trees. Great fun!

• Enjoy a family picnic on Richmond Green

Richmond Green is less well-known than big-hitters Richmond Park and Kew Gardens, but it offers a lovely spot for sharing a family picnic. Kids can run around while still being within sight of Mum and Dad, who in turn can relax and enjoy the pretty view of the Green and its surroundings. 

• Explore the Children’s Garden at Kew 

Kew Gardens has its own dedicated Children’s Garden which has been designed to appeal to little explorers. There are a series of adventures to be had, with all routes eventually leading to the impressive 200-year old oak tree at the heart of the garden, with an exciting child-friendly canopy walk. 

• Stein’s Richmond

Stein’s Richmond’s outdoor-only Bavarian restaurant will appeal to families with little ones who have excess energy to burn. Refreshingly informal, kids can roam free and enjoy playtime in the restaurant’s play area, then chow down on child-sized German sausages for dinner. 

• WWT London Wetland Centre

A huge 105-acre nature reserve, WWT London Wetland Centre will appeal to kids and parents all year round. But in the summertime, kids are treated to their own ‘Wetland Explorers’ club, where they’re encouraged to go on wild wetland adventures learning all about the animals and plants that live here. 

• Puppet Theatre Barge

For over 30 years, a converted Thames barge has been home to the legendary Puppet Theatre. Kids love the drama of entering the barge, spotting all the old puppets on display, before sitting down and being taken on a magical journey far away from Richmond. 

• Rent a rowing boat on the Thames

For kids who enjoy being on the water, a rowing boat is a fun way to spend an afternoon in Richmond. Let the little ones take a turn with the oars, and play a game of I-Spy as you take in the sights of Richmond from the water. 

• Spot the free-roaming deer at Richmond Park

Richmond Park has so many attractions but one that’s always appealing to children is spotting the deer. Thanks to Bambi, these lovely creatures are ingrained in the minds of kids, so seeing them in real life is a truly thrilling experience.

• Ceramics Cafe Kew

A great rainy-day activity, the Ceramics Cafe Kew will keep kids entertained while allowing them to express their inner creativity. First let them choose their white ceramic, then go crazy with the paints! Their masterpiece will be fired and can be collected a few days later, ready to be treasured as a memory of a great day out. 

• Hammerton’s Ferry

The family-owned Hammertons Ferry has been running for well over 100 years, taking passengers on the short hop between Ham and Marble Hill Park. Both places have attractions that will appeal to kids and the ferry ride between them will make the day that bit more exciting.

FAQs

What is Richmond UK known for?

Richmond UK is best known for its vast parks, gardens, and conservation areas, including Richmond Park and Kew Gardens. There are also numerous historic homes, including Ham House and Marble Hill House, representing an England of old. Richmond sits on the famous River Thames and the view over the Thames Basin from Richmond Hill Viewing Point is one of the most famous sights in London. 

Is there a High Street in Richmond?

Yes, Richmond has a very well-provisioned high street alternately known as The Quadrant, George Street, and Kew Road, where visitors will find a great mix of high street names, boutique stores, and independent retailers. There are also plenty of options when it comes to cafes, restaurants, and bars. Richmond is easy to explore on foot, but if you want to venture further afield, Richmond tube station is also found on the high street.