Things To Do In Richmond London

Richmond, a market town in Greater London, is a popular destination for sightseers and tourists alike. Situated on the banks of the River Thames, the town has a rich history and a unique character that continues to draw visitors from near and far. Whether you’re looking for a day out in the fresh air, a spot of culture, or simply a place to relax and soak in the atmosphere, Richmond has something for everyone.

A Brief History of Richmond

Richmond dates back to at least the 12th century, when it was known as Shene. It was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and developed slowly over the centuries, becoming a popular destination for wealthy Londoners seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. In the 17th century, Richmond was an important royal retreat, and in 1625 King Charles I built Richmond Palace nearby. The palace was home to monarchs until it was destroyed by fire in 1698.

The 19th century saw further development as the area became home to many pubs and hostelries, and in 1892 Richmond was officially made part of Greater London. Today, it remains an important hub for culture, leisure, business and transport. Its population is just over 20,000, and it is served by two railway stations.

Things To Do In Richmond London

Richmond is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a day out with a difference. Here are some of the top things to do in Richmond:

Explore Richmond Park

Richmond Park is one of the largest royal parks in London and covers an area of 2,500 acres. It’s home to ancient trees, grasslands and wildlife, including red and fallow deer. The park is also home to Isabella Plantation, a 40-acre woodland garden where visitors can explore winding paths and meandering streams. Visitors can also enjoy spectacular views of the city from King Henry’s Mound – one of the highest points in London.

Visit Kew Gardens

Adjacent to Richmond Park is Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers an area of 121 hectares. It’s home to some of the world’s most famous botanical gardens and is home to more than 30,000 species of plants from all over the globe. Kew Gardens is also home to the Royal Botanic Society which was founded in 1840 and is dedicated to exploring and preserving plant diversity.

Go Shopping in Richmond

Richmond is home to an array of unique shops, boutiques and markets selling everything from antiques to art. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants serving up delicious dishes from around the world. Popular shopping hotspots include Richmond High Street and Richmond Market which offers fresh produce and handmade goods every Saturday.

Discover Richmond’s Culture

Richmond has plenty of cultural attractions to explore. Richmond Theater hosts a variety of productions including musicals and plays while nearby Crane Theater features art-house films and independent productions. The Georgian House Museum is also worth a visit for those interested in architecture and local history.

Take a Stroll Along the River Thames

Stretching from Hampton Court Palace to Teddington Lock, the River Thames passes through Richmond offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along its banks or take a boat trip from one of the many riverboat stations located along the river.

Explore Richmond Palace

Richmond Palace was once an important royal residence and is now open to visitors keen to explore its history. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace, including the Great Hall, chapel and royal apartments, as well as take in the stunning views of London from the palace grounds.

Popular Tours In Richmond

If you’re planning a trip to Richmond, then why not consider booking one of these popular tours?

Richmond Riverside Cruise Tour

Take in breathtaking views of Richmond on a relaxing river cruise tour along the River Thames. The tour begins at Twickenham Pier before heading downstream towards Teddington Lock passing landmarks such as Marble Hill House, Syon Park and Eel Pie Island along the way. Guests will be treated to commentary from an experienced tour guide as they soak up the sights and sounds of Richmond from the comfort of their boat. Book a Richmond Riverside Cruise Tour here.

Richmond Park Bike Tour

Explore Richmond Park on two wheels with this guided bike tour. This four-hour tour will take you through some of the park’s most beautiful areas as you cycle along its winding paths and through its woodlands. Your guide will provide commentary about the park’s history and wildlife as you go and will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Book a Richmond Park Bike Tour here.

Richmond Historic Pubs Tour

Discover Richmond’s rich pub heritage on this guided pub tour. This two-hour tour will take you through some of Richmond’s most historic pubs where you will be able to sample some of their finest ales while learning about their pasts. Your guide will also be able to answer any questions you have about Richmond’s pub culture and offer insight into its history. Book a Richmond Historic Pubs Tour here.

Richmond is a vibrant market town with plenty to see and do all year round. Whether you’re looking for a day out in nature or exploring its fascinating culture and history, Richmond has something for everyone. From winding riverside walks to bike tours through its parks, there’s no shortage of activities for visitors to enjoy. With many tours available from experienced guides, you can make your trip to Richmond even more special by booking one of these popular tours for an unforgettable experience in this historic town.