Things to do in Richmond Park

Richmond Park is a popular tourist destination located in the Borough of Richmond upon Thames in London. It is one of the largest of the capital’s Royal Parks and the second largest in the UK. The park is 2,360 acres of open grassland and wild woodland, with a wide variety of wildlife and activities to enjoy. It is a great place for tourists to visit for a day or two and explore the beautiful natural surroundings.

History of Richmond Park

Richmond Park has a long and fascinating history. It was originally established by King Charles I in 1637 as a deer hunting park, and it served as a royal hunting ground for centuries. The park changed hands over the years, with different owners making various changes, but it has remained relatively unchanged since the 18th century. The landscape and wildlife within the park are now protected by the Royal Parks authority, making it one of the most important natural habitats in London.

What to see and do in Richmond Park

Richmond Park has something for everyone, whether it’s exploring its rich history, enjoying the beautiful scenery or taking part in activities. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Richmond Park:

Visit the Isabella Plantation

The Isabella Plantation is a picturesque garden located in Richmond Park, filled with exotic plants and trees from around the world. It is a great place to stroll around and take in the stunning scenery. There is also an outdoor café where visitors can relax and enjoy a spot of lunch or afternoon tea.

Go for a Cycle Ride

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Richmond Park. Visitors can hire bikes from the park’s bike hire shop located near Roehampton Gate. From there, cyclists can explore the extensive network of trails within the park, taking in some of the most breathtaking views of London.

Visit King Henry’s Mound

King Henry’s Mound is a great spot for visitors to take in the stunning views of London from above. The mound is located at the highest point of Richmond Park, so visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from this elevated viewpoint.

Take Part in a Guided Tour

There are several guided tours available for visitors wanting to learn more about Richmond Park’s history and wildlife. Visitors can take part in guided walks and bike rides, as well as special tours focusing on birds and other wildlife species found within the park.

Go Horse Riding

Horse riding is a popular activity in Richmond Park, and visitors can take part in group or individual lessons with experienced instructors. There are also several horse-riding trails available for those wanting to explore more of the park on horseback.

Enjoy a Picnic

Richmond Park is the perfect place for an outdoor picnic. Visitors can take advantage of the many picnic tables located throughout the park, as well as designated picnic spots within wooded areas or near ponds.

Popular Tours in Richmond Park

Richmond Park has some great tours on offer for visitors looking for a more immersive experience. Here are two popular tours available for those wanting to make the most out of their visit to Richmond Park:

Premium Tour of Richmond Park

The Premium Tour of Richmond Park is a two-hour tour led by an experienced guide. It covers all the highlights of Richmond Park, from its history and wildlife to its stunning scenery. The tour includes visits to Isabella Plantation and King Henry’s Mound, as well as plenty of stops for photos and some interesting facts about the park’s past. Visitors can book this tour now to get an insight into this beautiful park and its unique place in London’s history.

Horse Riding Tour of Richmond Park

For those wanting to explore more of Richmond Park on horseback, this two-hour horse riding tour is perfect. Visitors will be provided with a horse and an experienced instructor will lead them on a leisurely ride through some of the most beautiful areas of Richmond Park, including Isabella Plantation and King Henry’s Mound. This tour is suitable for both experienced riders and those just starting out, so anyone can enjoy this unique experience.

Conclusion

Richmond Park is one of London’s most beautiful parks and a popular tourist destination for those wanting to get out into nature and explore some of London’s hidden gems. There are plenty of things to see and do in Richmond Park, from exploring its rich history to enjoying some outdoor activities. There are also some great guided tours available that allow visitors to get an even more immersive experience in this magnificent park. Whether you’re visiting for a day or two, there is something for everyone at Richmond Park!