Richmond is situated south-west London. The River Thames runs for over 10 miles through the borough, linking Hampton Court Palace, Richmond Town Centre and Kew Gardens with London.
Richmond rivals anywhere in London with its beautiful Royal Parks and open spaces, historic houses, theatres, museums, galleries, exhibits and town centres bursting with life. A third of the borough is green and open space – five times more than any other borough in London offering a multitude of leisure activities. The area is popular with families and in easy reach of Central London, offering the perfect mix of town and country.
Richmond Travel Links
Richmond station has excellent train links to London Waterloo, Clapham Junction, Vauxhall, Reading, Staines and beyond, as well being on the District Line of the London Underground network, both of which are easily accessible at the station conveniently located in the centre of the town.
Richmond is also part of the London Cycle Network, offering on and off-road cycle paths throughout the area, including along the Thames Towpath and in Richmond Park.
Richmond Park is a world-famous Royal Park and has been designated as a site of special scientific interest and a National Nature Reserve. The royal connections to this park probably go back further than any of the others, beginning with Edward (1272-1307), when the area was known as the Manor of Sheen. The name was changed to Richmond during Henry VII's reign The Park has changed very little over the centuries and although it is surrounded by human habitation, the varied landscape of hills, woodland gardens and grasslands set among ancient trees abounds in wildlife.
There’s plenty of sports and leisure activities, here’s just a handful. The Old Deer Park centre, run by the borough council, includes 33m indoor and outdoor pools and a fitness centre. The park also provides open recreation areas, football, rugby and other pitches; in addition, there is the Richmond Athletic Ground, home to Richmond F.C. and London Scottish rugby clubs. There’s bridle paths and horses can be rented from a number of stables around the perimeter of the park. Richmond’s Ham Polo Club was established in 1926 and is now the only polo club in London! Skiffs can be hired by the hour from local boat builders close to the bridge, with opportunities to row upstream towards the historic properties Ham House and Marble Hill House.
There are several theatres in Richmond, the most notable being the Richmond Theatre. It is a spectacular building and has a well-deserved reputation for quality and entertainment. This very special and historic building, which was built in 1899 and designed by the famous theatre architect Frank Matcham.
Richmond Bridge
Shopping in Richmond
As well as a great high street Richmond has a variety of markets, highlights include; Richmond Duck Pond Markets take place in the centre of Richmond every weekend. A haven for anyone who cares about the quality and provenance of the food they eat.
The mission is to build a vibrant marketplace for independent food producers and small businesses - and for customers to form relationships with the suppliers and producers of their weekly shop. The monthly Makers Market at RHACC has an Etsy market showcasing the talents of local designers. There’s a variety of locally designed and handmade products, such as homewares, art, stationery, fashion, jewellery, children's and much more.
Eating out in Richmond
Looking to try the tastes of the world? Richmond upon Thames has a variety of high end international cuisines that are served through our many restaurants and pubs, enough to satisfy everyone's needs.
From the award winning Petersham Nurseries for a spot of lunch or to enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea at The Petersham Hotel, with unspoilt panoramic views of the River Thames and the surrounding meadow. Or take a stroll along the towpath and enjoy a steak at Gaucho in a boathouse style restaurant with yet more fantastic views to take in over your food - they also do a selection of great cocktails.
If the pub is more your thing then head to The White Swan. Built in 1787, this gastropub has a friendly, warm atmosphere and is in yet another beautiful location.
Hotels in Richmond
There is an excellent choice of accommodation to suit all budgets, ranging from family run B&Bs, guest houses and self-catering units to 4 star luxurious hotels and it’s within easy reach of Central London there’s a wealth or world class hotels to choose from.
The Petersham Hotel is a classical luxury hotel, overlooking the River Thames and Petersham meadows. Elegant private dining and meeting rooms including the unique Petersham cellars. The award-winning Restaurant with panoramic views is open to the public.
The Bingham Hotel overlooks the River Thames and is one of London’s most unique boutique hotels. Originally built as two Georgian townhouses, the Bingham’s rich history has shaped the property, creating an elegant setting for modern luxury living with a vintage twist, a truly original stay.
The Richmond Hill Hotel is the perfect venue for weddings and conferences. Cedars health and Leisure Club is free for residents and there’s plenty of free onsite parking.
The average travel-time is around 16 minutes. However, keep in mind that travel times on weekends and holidays may be longer. To find out the exact travel time for a specific date, please visit our Train Times page.
What time does the first direct train from London to Richmond depart?
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What time does the last direct train from London to Richmond depart?
