Introduction

If you’re craving a real escape from city life, Richmond Park is where London’s wild heart beats. Spanning 2,500 acres, it’s the largest of the capital’s Royal Parks — a vast, untamed landscape of rolling meadows, ancient trees, and freely roaming deer.

Created by King Charles I in the 17th century as a royal deer park, Richmond Park today offers a rare blend of natural wilderness and regal history. Just a short train ride from central London, it’s the perfect destination for hikers, cyclists, photographers, and anyone who wants to breathe deeply and feel close to nature.

Location and How to Reach

Address: Richmond Park, Richmond, London TW10 5HS, United Kingdom

Nearest Stations:

1. Richmond Station (District Line, Overground, National Rail) – 20-minute walk or short bus ride
2. Kingston Station – For Kingston Gate entrance
3. Roehampton Gate – Accessible by bus from Putney

By Bus: 65, 85, 371, 485, K3 serve entrances around the park.

Parking: Several car parks are located inside the park — free of charge, but they fill up quickly on weekends.

Opening and Closing Times

Richmond Park is open daily from 7:00 AM in summer and 7:30 AM in winter.

Closing times vary by month (typically 8:00 PM–9:00 PM in summer, 4:00 PM–5:00 PM in winter).

🚴‍♂️ Cycling and vehicle access follow similar hours, with pedestrian gates open 24/7 for walkers.

🎟️ Entry is free.

Top Things to Do in Richmond Park

1. Spot the Wild Deer
2. Over 600 red and fallow deer roam freely across the park. They’re a joy to see, but remember — they are wild animals, so maintain a respectful distance of at least 50 metres.
3. Explore Isabella Plantation
4. A 40-acre woodland garden famous for its vibrant azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons. Spring and early summer are simply breathtaking here.
5. Enjoy Panoramic Views from King Henry’s Mound
6. Climb this historic viewpoint for an unforgettable vista of London — including a protected view of St Paul’s Cathedral, over 10 miles away.
7. Go Cycling or Horse Riding
8. Richmond Park’s 12 km road circuit is popular with cyclists. You can also rent a bike nearby or enjoy horse riding on designated bridle paths.
9. Visit Pembroke Lodge
10. A charming Georgian mansion offering a tearoom and gardens. Perfect for afternoon tea with sweeping views over the Thames Valley.
11. Picnic in the Meadows
12. Find a quiet spot under an oak tree and enjoy a picnic surrounded by open skies and the sound of rustling grass.

Best Time to Visit

1. Spring: Blossoms and baby deer sightings
2. Summer: Long walks, picnics, and cycling
3. Autumn: Golden leaves and deer rutting season (incredible photography!)
4. Winter: Peaceful misty mornings and fewer crowds

🌅 Early mornings and sunset hours are magical for wildlife watching and photos.

Wildlife & Nature

Richmond Park is a designated National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Alongside deer, you’ll find:

1. Woodpeckers, kestrels, and owls
2. Foxes and rabbits
3. Rare ancient oak trees, some over 700 years old

Please remember: no feeding or approaching wildlife — it helps keep the animals safe and wild.

Cafés & Facilities

1. Pembroke Lodge Café – Classic British tea and light bites with terrace views
2. Roehampton Café – Family-friendly stop for coffee and snacks
3. Isabella Plantation Kiosk – Quick refreshments among flowers

Facilities include toilets, water points, cycle hire, and picnic areas.

Local Tips

1. The park is huge — wear comfy shoes and bring water.
2. Avoid loud noises or drones; they disturb the deer.
3. During deer rutting season (Oct–Nov), observe from a safe distance.
4. Combine your trip with a visit to Richmond town centre, full of riverside pubs and boutiques.

Quick Summary Table

FeatureDetailsLocationRichmond, South-West LondonOpening Hours7:00 AM – Dusk (varies by season)Entry FeeFreeMain AttractionsWild deer, Isabella Plantation, King Henry’s Mound, Pembroke LodgeBest ForNature walks, cycling, photography, picnicsFacilitiesCafés, toilets, car parks, visitor centreWebsitewww.royalparks.org.uk/RichmondPark

Final Thoughts

Richmond Park is more than just a park — it’s a glimpse of London’s wild soul. With its roaming deer, sweeping views, and ancient woodlands, it offers the kind of tranquility you’d never expect so close to a major city. Whether you’re cycling through the meadows, watching the sunset over the Thames, or quietly spotting wildlife, Richmond Park reminds you that even in a city as fast-paced as London, nature still has room to breathe.