Richmond and Kew

Richmond Park

The 2,500 acre Richmond Park offers some of the most breathtaking views of Surrey and West London that you could ever hope to witness. Red deer - both does, and the male stags resplendent with huge antlers with points - run freely over the park, as do the smaller, dappled fallow deer whose males have flattened antlers. They lead an easier life than their ancestors, who were hunted by monarchs such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. The whole park was once owned by the monarchs who regarded anything in it as theirs to hunt and kill.

There are many distinguished features covering Richmond Park, most particularly Pembroke Lodge (now a cafe), which is where Bertrand Russell, the philosopher, lived in the early part of his life.

The Isabella Plantation provides some of the park’s most beautiful woodland, and acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias reside happily with dreamy trees and ponds. The flowering season is in May and June, but they also colour brilliantly in the autumn.

Another famous landmark is the White Lodge, which was originally built in 1727 by George I as a hunting lodge. However, the house has now been handed over to the Royal Ballet School, who use it to train young dancers. The Holly Lodge operates as the park headquarters, and its history dates back to medieval times when a thriving hill-farm existed on the site.

Don't forget to walk up Richmond Hill to get a "birds-eye" view of the entire Park and the stunning view across the River Thames. If you enjoy walking, riding or cycling you should also get the most out of the park, but seriously, it will take you all day to try and experience the many attractions on offer here.

JB

You can contact the Richmond Park headquarters on 0208 948 3209.

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