Get thee to Richmond’s gorgeous Isabella Plantation right away, which is currently at peak pinkness.
You might know Richmond Park for its grassy expanses, woodland bits and wild deer. As one of London’s biggest and wildest parks, it’s a smashing spot for a sunny day out. But what you may not have noticed on previous visits is a secret garden in the heart of the park, known as the Isabella Plantation.
SEE ALSO: Our Massive List Of Free Places To Visit In London
Journey through the fields to discover a magical park-within-a-park – and right now, it’s pinker than the Plastics on a Wednesday. The azaleas are fleetingly in flower, so feast your eyes on this fabulous fuschia!
SEE ALSO: The Secret London Guide To Flower-Spotting In London
It’s a favourite spot of Hedge Doggos…
Popular with Fancy Ducks…
And obviously, the spiritual home of Nature Ladies.
At the Isabella Plantation, you’ll find Long Burblers…
But also Splashy Mirrors…
Fairy Tunnels…
And also Baby Bluebies.
When the azaleas are in bloom, there’s no prettier place to be.
(Especially when combined with a little wildlife-spotting)
So grab a pink-lovin’ pal…
Fix yourself an Insta-perfect picnic…
And get yourself lost!
Late April and early May are the best times for the psychedelic display of rhododendrons and azaleas, so don’t delay – but there’s plenty more floral action throughout the year for all you late bloomers.
Location: Richmond Park, Kingston-upon-Thames. It’s a 35-minute walk (mostly through the park) from Norbiton station. See it on Google Maps.
Opening hours: generally early morning ’til dusk, so 7:30am – 8:00pm during summer, we think. Keep an eye on Instagram to ensure peak pinkness.
Price: entirely free to visit!
More information: from their website.
Also published on Medium.