The Old Town Hall, Museum on 2nd Floor
1 / 10

Museum of Richmond London

4.2
·74 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Richmond's rich past at this free museum, featuring local history, royal connections, and engaging workshops by the Thames.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Loading map...
The Old Town Hall, Museum on 2nd Floor

Museum of Richmond London

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Richmond's rich past at this free museum, featuring local history, royal connections, and engaging workshops by the Thames.

4.2
(74 reviews)

"A nice place to visit and learn some of the local history and as many other London museums free of charge."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission, Donations Welcome

Entry is free! Consider a donation to support this community gem and its exhibits.

👶 Kid-Friendly Fun

Features a children's play area and engaging workshops that kids love.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Richmond's Royal Past

Richmond's Royal Past

Exhibits on the second floor

Discover artifacts and stories from the former royal palace that once stood in Richmond.

Local Social History

Local Social History

Main exhibition area

Explore fascinating social history through engaging displays and unique local artifacts.

Interactive Workshops

Interactive Workshops

Workshop space

Participate in creative craft workshops inspired by historical items, perfect for all ages.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds

While free, the Museum of Richmond can get busy. Consider visiting on weekdays outside of school holidays for a more relaxed experience. Check their website for special events or workshops, as these can impact crowd levels.

Making the Most of Your Free Entry

As a free museum, it's a fantastic budget-friendly option. However, donations are encouraged to support their work. Plan your visit around specific exhibits or workshops that pique your interest to maximize your experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon, outside school holidays
Why
Quieter exploration time
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Richmond Park 🍂 🎶 The Armed Man (A Mass for Peace): XII. Benedictus Karl Jenkins #richmonduponthames #fyp#nature #deer #theroyalparks
@mandsby
211.7K likes • 721.2K views

🎯 Free Admission, Donations Welcome

Entry is free! Consider a donation to support this community gem and its exhibits. Reddit

👶 Kid-Friendly Fun

Features a children's play area and engaging workshops that kids love. Reddit

A handy guide to the #london borough of #richmonduponthames #richmondhill #richmondpark #LearnOnTikTok #britishhumour #ukcomedy
@philc84
90.1K likes • 743.6K views
5 must visit London pubs: 1. The Devonshire - Soho 2. ⁠The Old Bank of England - Fleet Street 3. ⁠Ye Olde Mitre - Hatton Garden 4. ⁠The Dickens Inn - St Katherine’s Dock 5. ⁠The White Cross - Richmond Let us know the pubs we missed 👇 #pubs #beer #top10 #london #top5 @devonshiresoho @thedickensinn @yeoldemitreholborn @thewhitecrosspub @oldbankofengland
thosepubguys
6K likes • 370K views

📚 Explore Local History

Dive into Richmond's rich past, from royal connections to social history. Reddit

☕ Coffee & Crafting

Enjoy excellent coffee and creative craft sessions inspired by museum items. Reddit

12 Places in London you should visit at least once 🇬🇧 1. Sky Garden, a lush, elevated garden with 360-degree views of London 🌿 2. Brewers Lane, a picturesque narrow street in Richmond 🏡 3. Florattica, an ideal rooftop for drinks and relaxation above the city 🍸🌆 4. K2 Telephone Box-Book Exchange, a quirky mini library inside a classic phone box 📚 5. Chestnuts Bakery, a cozy bakery serving deli...
russogioacchino
171.1K likes • 9.2M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission, Donations Welcome

Entry is free! Consider a donation to support this community gem and its exhibits. Reddit

👶 Kid-Friendly Fun

Features a children's play area and engaging workshops that kids love. Reddit

📚 Explore Local History

Dive into Richmond's rich past, from royal connections to social history. Reddit

☕ Coffee & Crafting

Enjoy excellent coffee and creative craft sessions inspired by museum items. Reddit

📍 Prime Thames Location

Located by the Thames, perfect for combining with a scenic walk. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(74 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Museum of Richmond for its free admission and engaging exhibits on local history, particularly its royal connections and social history displays. The family-friendly atmosphere, including a children's play area and creative workshops, is a significant draw. Its prime location by the River Thames also adds to its appeal, making it a pleasant stop for a leisurely stroll.

"An impressive and imposing building houses the Richmond Museum along with the Library. It is next to the banks of the Thames where many people visit daily for the coolness, for a walk or to practice their painting skills while looking at the view"

Lazaros Kokkalis

"Nice place to visit and learn some of the local history and as many other London museums free of charge. There is a children play area as well."

Svetoslav Kyosov (Savy)

"A small museum tucked away on the second floor of the Old Town Hall and above the reference library.
It had a selection of artefacts from Richmond's history, including from the royal place that was once located here. It also has a small shop."

Karen B

What People Like

Free admission
Engaging local history
Family-friendly workshops

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of Richmond is conveniently located next to the River Thames. You can reach it by various public transport options. Many visitors enjoy combining a museum visit with a stroll along the riverbanks. Reddit

While specific parking details for the museum itself are limited, there are typically car parks available in the Richmond area. It's often recommended to use public transport due to potential parking challenges in popular London locations. TikTok

Yes, Richmond Station is a short walk from the museum. Enjoy a pleasant stroll through the charming streets of Richmond upon Thames on your way. TikTok

Absolutely! Richmond is well-served by public transport, including the Tube (District Line) and numerous bus routes, making it easy to access the museum. TikTok

For a day trip to Richmond, consider using the Tube or Overground services to Richmond Station. This allows for easy access to the museum and other local attractions like Richmond Park. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Museum of Richmond offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the museum and its collections. Reddit

Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance for general admission due to its free entry policy. However, for specific workshops or special events, booking might be required, so it's best to check their official website. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's always recommended to check the official Museum of Richmond website before your visit for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any potential closures. Reddit

The museum is typically open on weekends, but hours may differ from weekdays. Always confirm the specific weekend opening times on their official website to avoid disappointment. Reddit

The Museum of Richmond often hosts special exhibitions and workshops, such as Easter wreath making. Keep an eye on their website or social media for announcements about upcoming events. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits on Richmond's royal history, social history, and local life. There's also a children's play area and often creative workshops. Reddit

Yes, the museum is very family-friendly, featuring a dedicated children's play area and interactive workshops that are great for kids. Reddit

The museum offers interactive elements, particularly through its craft workshops where you can create items inspired by historical pieces. Reddit

Combine your visit with a walk along the Thames, and consider attending one of their craft workshops for a more hands-on experience. Reddit

Yes, the museum has a small shop where you can purchase souvenirs and items related to Richmond's history. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

The museum itself doesn't typically have a full cafe, but it does offer excellent coffee during its craft sessions. You'll find plenty of cafes and pubs nearby along the River Thames. Reddit

Richmond upon Thames boasts numerous charming cafes. For a delightful experience, consider cafes along the riverside or those in the independent shops around town. TikTok+1

Yes, you might find gelato shops in Richmond, perfect for a treat after exploring the museum and the surrounding area. TikTok

The White Cross pub in Richmond is famous for its unique location and is known to flood, offering a memorable pub experience by the river. TikTokInstagram

Richmond offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional pubs to independent eateries and cafes, catering to various tastes. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

While the museum's interior exhibits may have restrictions, the building itself and its proximity to the River Thames offer lovely photographic potential. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for any signage or ask museum staff about their specific rules regarding photography inside the exhibition spaces. Reddit

The River Thames banks adjacent to the museum provide scenic views. Richmond Park, with its deer and landscapes, is also a prime spot for photography. TikTok+3

Richmond upon Thames has many picturesque streets and charming independent shops that make for great photo backdrops. Brewers Lane is noted as a particularly lovely narrow street. TikTokInstagram

Sunrise and sunset can offer magical light for photography in Richmond, especially in Richmond Park. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Richmond is a fantastic destination for families. It features a dedicated children's play area that keeps younger visitors entertained. Reddit Beyond the play area, the museum offers engaging craft workshops that are perfect for kids, such as the popular Easter wreath making sessions. Reddit These workshops are designed to be both fun and educational, allowing children to learn about history through creative activities. The museum's free admission also makes it a budget-friendly outing for families looking to explore London's local history.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Museum of Richmond is an absolute gem. Its free admission policy means you can immerse yourself in local history without spending a penny. Reddit This makes it an ideal addition to an itinerary that might include other free attractions in London. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the River Thames nearby, further saving on dining costs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

If you're planning a day trip to Richmond, the museum is a perfect starting point or a delightful stop. Its location by the River Thames makes it easy to combine with a scenic walk along the water or a visit to the expansive Richmond Park. TikTokReddit You can easily spend a few hours exploring the museum's exhibits and then enjoy the natural beauty and charming streets of Richmond upon Thames. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Richmond Park: A Natural Escape

Just a stone's throw from the Museum of Richmond lies the magnificent Richmond Park, a vast Royal Park offering a stunning natural escape within the city. It's renowned for its herds of free-roaming deer, a truly magical sight that captivates visitors year-round. TikTok+1 The park's expansive landscapes, including Isabella Plantation and Pen Ponds, provide breathtaking scenery, especially during autumn when the foliage turns vibrant colors. TikTok

Visitors often describe the park as a place where their soul feels happy, highlighting its serene atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature. TikTok Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a spot for a picnic, or simply to witness the majestic deer, Richmond Park is an essential part of any visit to the area. Remember to keep a respectful distance from the wildlife and enjoy the tranquility. TikTok+1

Pro-tip: Early mornings can offer spectacular sunrises and a chance to see the deer before the park gets too busy. TikTok+1 The park is also a popular spot for cycling and horse riding, offering various ways to explore its extensive grounds.

Richmond's Pub Culture and Riverside Charm

Richmond upon Thames is not only rich in history but also in its vibrant pub culture and picturesque riverside setting. The River Thames flows through the heart of Richmond, offering beautiful views and a lively atmosphere, especially along the waterfront. TikTokReddit

A standout establishment is The White Cross pub, famously known for its unique location that sometimes floods, creating a memorable and often talked-about experience for patrons. TikTokInstagram This pub, along with others in the area, contributes to Richmond's reputation as a great spot for enjoying a drink with a view. Many visitors recommend exploring the independent shops and enjoying a warm drink, like thick hot chocolate, to complement the riverside charm. Instagram

Beyond the pubs, the riverside promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, people-watching, and enjoying the gentle pace of life in Richmond. It’s an ideal place to unwind after exploring the museum or Richmond Park, offering a quintessential London riverside experience. TikTok

Creative Workshops and Community Engagement

The Museum of Richmond actively engages its community through a variety of creative workshops, offering a unique hands-on experience for visitors of all ages. These sessions are often inspired by the museum's collection, allowing participants to learn about historical crafts and techniques. Reddit

One highly recommended workshop is the Easter wreath making, which combines learning with fun, making it a perfect activity for families. Reddit Participants praise the excellent coffee and crafting sessions, noting how the introduction and description of collection items enhance the creative process. The workshops provide all necessary supplies, and attendees can even continue their craft at home, making it a rewarding and memorable experience. Reddit

These workshops are a testament to the museum's commitment to making history accessible and engaging. They offer a different perspective on the museum's artifacts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the skills of past artisans. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2