The season for spending money as if you’re playing a game of Monopoly is fast-approaching. And very few of the capital’s Christmassy offerings come more festively frivolous than this. Ditch your walking boots, folks, and perch yourself down inside a vintage horse-drawn carriage, instead. Because London’s largest (and – in my opinion – loveliest) Royal Park will, once again, be injecting some magic into the season with their oh-so enchanting carriage rides.
Winter carriage rides at Richmond Park
The experience will begin at Holly Lodge, where guests will be greeted with some refreshments. They’ll then hop-aboard the gorgeous vintage carriage (pulled along by the even more gorgeous Shire horses), and be transported on a magical hour-long journey through Richmond Park. The carriage comes complete with cosy blankets to snuggle under as you gawp at the wildlife from the best seat in the house, sip on hot chocolate, and revel in the sounds of clip-clopping hooves and Christmassy bells.
The experience also includes unique behind-the-scenes access to the park‘s stables to learn more about the Shire horses that reside there. Richmond Park’s horses are actually the last working herd in London, and live and work in the park all year round. The glorious creatures are looked after by Operation Centaur, who work to promote happy human-and-horse cooperation, whilst providing local children with equine-experience.
How much does a carriage-ride cost?
As I’m sure you may have guessed, one of these regal rides through Richmond Park will set you back a crown jewel or two. The exclusive carriages fit six people inside, and the full carriage can be booked for £450. And look, I know that sounds expensive, but if you round up a group of pals and divide the cost by six, you’re looking at £75 per person. And can you really put a price on festive fun? I think not. Also, the proceeds go towards helping the Royal Park’s sustainable conservation initiatives with the working Shire horses. So the experience will be as good for your conscience as it will be for your cameral roll, if you really think about it.
The winter Richmond Park carriage rides will be running on selected dates between December 6 and January 1 (including Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day). Find out more and book your carriage ride here.