Richmond Park
Richmond, London SW15

Richmond Park is one of the last vestiges of the great oak forests that surrounded London until medieval times.

In 1657 Charles I, then Prince of Wales, built a wall 8 miles long to enclose the royal park as a hunting ground.  Today the royal park covers 2,500 acres, 13 miles round the boundaries. 

The capital's largest royal park, it has superb views over London and Surrey. Richmond Park has hardly changed and is so well preserved that in parts it remains more natural than many areas of British countryside.  

It is home to wildlife, most famously the herds of fallow and red deer that can be seen grazing beneath the trees.  The woodlands, lakes, hills, heath and grasslands are also home to badges and foxes. 

A highlight of the park is the Isabella Plantation, woodland landscaped with a stream, ponds and magnificent floral displays.

Richmond Gate, in the northwest corner, was designed by 'Capability' Brown in 1798, and nearby is Henry VIII Mound. It was here in 1536 that the king, staying at Richmond Palace, awaited the signal that Anne Boleyn, his former queen, had been executed at the Tower of London.  

White Lodge at the centre of the park, built in 1729 for George II, a Palladian building is now home to the Royal Ballet School. 

Pembroke Lodge, the childhood home of the philosopher Betrand Russell, is used as a café and a venue for light music in the summer months.

The park is ideal for rambling, cycling and riding, as well as fishing on the Pen Ponds, and there are two golf courses.

Adam's Ponds is a favourite spot for model boat enthusiasts.

There is also cafeteria, refreshment kiosks, a playground and organised summer events for children.

Admission free

Opening Times