Tucked away along the river in southwest London, Richmond Upon Thames is a beloved neighbourhood where history and nature collide, providing the capital with one of its favourite days out. Famed for its lush parks and green spaces, Richmond offers a peaceful retreat from the city thanks to all the incredible things you can do to fill up your day. From the area’s elegant Georgian architecture to the deer at Richmond Park, the scenic landscapes and quaint streets paint a picture of timeless charm.
Historically, Richmond has been a place of royal significance, with its namesake palace once serving as a favoured residence for Tudor monarchs and its park being used as royal hunting grounds. This regal legacy still lingers throughout today, transporting you back to a bygone era. So without further ado, here are the best things to do in Richmond for your next venture west.
1. Explore the stunning Richmond Park
No trip to Richmond is complete without a visit to the historic Richmond Park. With 2,500 acres of rolling hills, ancient trees, and wild deer, it’s the largest of London’s Royal Parks and it’s an absolute dream for nature lovers.
From beautiful blooms in the spring to falling foliage in autumn, the ever-changing colours of the park make it a go-to hotspot year-round, whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply looking for somewhere to relax and unwind. Whatever you do, be sure to take in the stunning view of the city skyline (more notably St. Paul’s Cathedral) from King Henry’s Mound. For our full, Secret London guide to Richmond Park, click here.
đź“ŤThere are several entrances to Richmond Park. Click here to view the Royal Parks map.
2. Wander through the enchanting Kew Gardens
A short hop, skip, and jump away from Richmond, Kew Gardens is one of London’s must-see attractions. Offering an impressive collection of plants and historic glasshouses, as well as seasonal events and exhibitions, this beloved botanical garden is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the leading research centres for all things flora, vegetation, and verdure.
Don’t miss the Treetop Walkway for a unique view of the gardens from above, or the serene Japanese Gardens for some peaceful reflection. Luckily for you, we also have an all-encompassing guide to Kew Gardens (which you can view, here). For more information and to book your tickets, click here.
đź“ŤYou can access Kew Gardens from its Victoria Gate (TW9 3JR), Elizabeth Gate (TW9 3AB), or Brentford Gate (TW9 3AF).
3. Fuel up on food & fairytales at the Hollyhock Café
This adorable cafĂ© in Richmond is an essential spot to keep in mind for the next time you’re in the area. Known as the magical Hollyhock CafĂ©, this fairytale-like eatery is located in the heart of Terrace Gardens, which isn’t far from Richmond Park if you’re looking for somewhere to kick-start your adventure, especially since you’re going to need the fuel!
From hearty soups and light bites for lunch to coffee and cake for a midday pick-me-up, treat your inner child by eating out at this fantastic fairtrade café. For more information, read our article here.
📍You can find Hollyhock Café at Terrace Gardens, 146 Petersham Rd, TW10 6UX.
4. Visit The White Cross pub at high tide for a wild ride!
There’s no denying that Richmond is home to some brilliant boozers, making it a great spot for a well-earned pub crawl on the weekend. However, it’s also undeniable that it’s home to one of London’s most unique pubs thanks to The White Cross, a pub guaranteed to wet your whistle in more ways than one.
Due to its location directly on the River Thames, specifically in Richmond where the river is tidal, the pub’s fantastic beer garden gets completely submerged during high tide, causing the staff and loyal punters to turn to wellies and a whole lot of fabulous chaos. For more information, click here to read our article.
đź“ŤYou can find The White Cross at Riverside House, Water Lane, TW9 1NR.
5. Tour the Ted Lasso filming locations in Richmond
If you were one of the many people who were transfixed by the riveting TV show Ted Lasso, then we have something extra special for you to do in Richmond. This walking tour is the perfect chance to put yourself in the red paisley Air Jordans of Jason Sudeikis’ loveable lead as you relive your favourite moments from all three series.
From walking over the picturesque Richmond Bridge to enjoying a drink in the 300-year-old Prince’s Head pub, don’t miss out if you’re a fan of the show or know someone who is. For more information and to book your tickets, click here.
6. Partake in a picturesque, riverside stroll
The riverside in Richmond is one of the most scenic spots in London, perfect for a relaxing stroll along the River Thames. The leafy promenade offers panoramic views of the water and the area, with boats drifting by and plenty of spots to stop and soak up the atmosphere.
You can even follow the path all the way to nearby Twickenham or Kingston if you’re up for the challenge, but there’s no judgement if you only wish to explore Richmond because it is indeed, ever so beautiful.
7. Treat yourself at Richmond Duck Pond Market
Every weekend, Richmond Duck Pond Market brings together a variety of local artisans, food stalls, and eco-friendly products so you can shop til’ you drop with little guilt!
Whether you’re browsing for unique crafts to gift or indulging in some top-notch street food, this vibrant market adds a lovely community-focused vibe to your day out in Richmond, and it’s arguably one of London’s prettiest markets. The Duck Pond Market takes place on the elegant Heron Square all weekend, every weekend. For more information and hours, click here to visit their website.
đź“ŤYou can find Richmond Duck Pondo on Heron Square, every Saturday and Sunday with seasonal hours.
8. Unwind and dine at Petersham Nurseries
We’ve previously mentioned that Richmond is home to one of London’s most unique pubs, but it’s also home to one of the capital’s most unique dining experiences too! Petersham Nurseries is part garden centre, part Michelin-starred restaurant that’s an absolute dream for an al fresco lunch or afternoon tea.
Whether you fancy picking up some plants for your home or are feeling slightly peckish, Petersham Nurseries is a peaceful retreat from London’s notorious hustle, parallel with all the other fantastic things to do in Richmond. For more information, read our article here.
đź“ŤYou can find Petersham Nurseries off Church Ln, Petersham Rd, TW10 7AB.
9. See what’s on at Richmond Theatre
Richmond Theatre is a stunning Victorian venue that hosts a wide variety of performances from hard-hitting dramas and pre-West End shows to comedies and musicals. Its grand architecture and riveting line-up make it a cultural staple in the area, perfect for concluding your day out in Richmond.
It’s one of the oldest surviving theatres designed by legendary architect Frank Matcham, standing proud in the centre of the Richmond community since 1899. Since then, it’s become a star in its own right, being used as a filming location in films and TV shows like Killing Eve, Ted Lasso, and even Bugsy Malone!
đź“ŤYou can find Richmond Theatre at 1 Little Green, TW9 1QJ.
10. Enjoy a couple of pints at The White Swan
It would be rude to hint at a pub crawl and only mention one pub, so here’s another Richmond gem for your consideration. The White Swan is a charming riverside staple that’s a little off the beaten path. With its cosy interiors and drool-worthy pub grub, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a busy day at work, or a day exploring the area.
Grab a seat outside and enjoy the peaceful vibes, and be sure to head here on a Sunday to try their highly recommended Sunday roast. Other notable pubs in Richmond to continue your pub crawl include The Prince’s Head, Roebuck, and Tap Tavern.
đź“ŤYou can find The White Swan at 26 Old Palace Ln, TW9 1PG.
11. Tuck into Italian cuisine at Richmond’s fab restaurants
Richmond boasts some fantastic Italian restaurants, each offering its own unique flair. Sebastian’s Italian is a local favourite for its authentic, home-coocked dishes, while L’Assaggino (pictured above) offers a more intimate, family-run experience.
One of Richmond’s newest offerings comes from the beloved London chain Noci, giving us Londoners easier access to their modern Italian fare, bringing fresh and seasonal ingredients to the table. There’s also the viral Pasta Evangelists, and you can read more about that, here.
đź“ŤClick the appropriate link above for location of each restaurant.
So, there we have it! From its magnificent Royal Park to the best pubs and restaurants, be sure to check out these unmissable things to do in Richmond during your next visit. Getting to Richmond is easily accessible via the District Line or by National Rail from Waterloo, which takes around 20 minutes. For a more scenic route, there is even a boat you can catch from Westminster.