Ham - Image 1
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Ham

4.6
·491k reviews·Richmond, United Kingdom

Step into 17th-century grandeur at Ham House, a meticulously preserved mansion and gardens on the River Thames.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Ham - Image 1

Ham

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into 17th-century grandeur at Ham House, a meticulously preserved mansion and gardens on the River Thames.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly enchanting step back in time with opulent interiors and beautiful gardens."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets for Ham House in advance online.

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the vast gardens and historic house.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ham House Interior

Ham House Interior

Ham House

Step back in time in this opulent 17th-century mansion, showcasing lavish interiors and historical artifacts.

Walled Kitchen Garden

Walled Kitchen Garden

Ham House Gardens

Wander through a beautifully restored Victorian kitchen garden, a tranquil escape with seasonal blooms.

Riverside Walks

Riverside Walks

River Thames path

Enjoy scenic strolls along the River Thames, offering picturesque views and a peaceful ambiance.

The Orangery Cafe

The Orangery Cafe

Ham House Gardens

Savor delicious treats and refreshments in a charming cafe set within the stunning gardens.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Ham House

Beat the crowds by visiting Ham House and Garden during weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Weekends and holidays can get busy, so booking tickets online in advance is recommended to save time and guarantee entry. TikTok

Exploring the Grounds

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive gardens and grounds of Ham House. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, a popular choice for many visitors. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon weekdays
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Spring (wisteria season)
Why
Gardens in full bloom
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

An English garden cafe 💜✨ 📍Ham House, Ham St, Ham, Richmond TW10 7RS Prettiest cafes Things to do in London Beautiful destinations Wisteria in London Best UK cafes Best National Trust @National Trust
@julestaylorinlondon
107.4K likes • 765.1K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets for Ham House in advance online. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the vast gardens and historic house. TikTok

Always love exploring new places in London 🕯️🥀 📍Ham house and garden, Richmond #london #hamhouse #richmond #londonlife #londonthingstodo #fyp
@patrisia.hubchuk
4K likes • 43.3K views
Highly requested recipe for homemade lunch meat ham. AND you can freeze it so don’t worry about making such a large joint you can deffo use it all up 😀😀 Just added a new recipe to my Etsy for this one so it’s easier for you guys to find and follow when making this. #homestead #gammon #ham #upf
louiseskitchengarden1
69.2K likes • 3M views

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful grounds, a popular and scenic option. TikTok

📸 Photography Walks

Capture stunning shots, especially during organized photography events. TikTok

This is how you make the perfect Easter ham. Once you make ham MY way you won’t make it any other way. If you’ve made this can you please vouch for it so someone under these comments will be convinced it’s magical will bring this juicy ham to their family gathering? #easter #ham
themoodyfoody
20.5K likes • 415.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets for Ham House in advance online. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the vast gardens and historic house. TikTok

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful grounds, a popular and scenic option. TikTok

📸 Photography Walks

Capture stunning shots, especially during organized photography events. TikTok

☕ Garden Cafe Delight

Don't miss the charming cafe for a delightful break amidst the gardens. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ham House for its beautifully preserved interiors and stunning gardens, offering a captivating step back in time. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic riverside walks are also frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note that the house can feel a bit small compared to other National Trust properties, and the cafe can get busy during peak times.

What People Like

Beautifully preserved interiors
Stunning historic gardens
Peaceful riverside walks

What People Dislike

House size compared to others
Cafe can be busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ham House is accessible via public transport. You can take the Tube to Richmond station and then a bus (e.g., 371) or a pleasant walk to the house. Alternatively, trains from Waterloo to Richmond are also an option. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available for visitors at Ham House. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for any parking fees or restrictions. TikTok

Cycling is a great way to reach Ham House, especially if you're coming from nearby Richmond. There are usually bike racks available on site. TikTok

For a day trip, combining the train to Richmond with a short bus ride or a scenic walk along the river is a popular and enjoyable approach. TikTok

Consider using apps like Citymapper or Google Maps for real-time public transport information to plan your journey efficiently. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees apply for Ham House and Garden. It's recommended to check the official National Trust website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your entry slot and potentially avoid queues. TikTok

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Always check the National Trust website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit. TikTok

The National Trust often offers various membership options that include free entry to their properties. Check their website for details on discounts for families, seniors, or groups. TikTok

Typically, garden-only access might be available at a reduced rate, but it's best to confirm this with the National Trust directly or on their website. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The formal gardens, the wisteria-covered walls in spring, the historic interiors, and the riverside paths offer fantastic photographic opportunities. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed inside Ham House, but tripods and flash photography may be restricted to protect the historic interiors. Always check for specific signage. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, creating a beautiful ambiance. TikTok

Yes, Ham House sometimes hosts photography walks and workshops, which can be a great way to learn and capture the estate. TikTok

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for both interiors and exteriors. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the grandeur of the house and gardens. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Ham House features a charming cafe, often called The Orangery Cafe, located within the gardens, serving refreshments and light meals. TikTok

Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy in designated areas within the grounds. TikTok

The cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, cakes, pastries, hot and cold drinks, and sometimes light lunches. TikTok

Yes, the nearby town of Richmond offers a variety of restaurants, pubs, and cafes if you're looking for more dining options. TikTok

It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about specific dietary options, as offerings can vary. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ham House is a fantastic destination for families looking for engaging activities. The spacious gardens provide ample room for children to run and explore, making it a great spot for a family picnic. TikTok The historic house itself can spark imagination, with its grand rooms and stories of the past. Look out for any family-friendly events or trails the National Trust might be running during your visit. TikTok

Consider making a day of it by combining your visit with a walk along the nearby River Thames. The open spaces and historical setting offer a unique educational and fun experience for children, blending learning with outdoor adventure. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers and couples, Ham House offers a tranquil escape and a rich historical experience. The gardens provide a serene environment for quiet contemplation or a romantic stroll. TikTok The detailed interiors of the house offer plenty to discover at your own pace, allowing for a deep dive into 17th-century life. TikTok

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at the Orangery Cafe, or simply find a quiet bench in the gardens to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The riverside walks also offer beautiful scenery for a peaceful outing. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Ham House is a photographer's dream, offering diverse subjects from stunning architecture to beautiful gardens. The 17th-century interiors, with their rich textures and historical artifacts, provide excellent opportunities for interior photography. TikTok The gardens, especially during spring with the wisteria in bloom, are incredibly picturesque. TikTok

Organized photography walks, like those hosted by the National Trust, can offer unique perspectives and access. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for capturing the estate's beauty. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Ham House's History

Ham House is a remarkably preserved 17th-century house, offering a unique window into the lives of the powerful and wealthy families who lived there. Originally built in 1610, it was significantly remodelled by Elizabeth Maitland, Duchess of Lauderdale, in the mid-17th century. The house is renowned for its opulent interiors, featuring rich textiles, elaborate furniture, and a significant collection of portraits and art. Visitors can explore rooms like the Great Hall, the Duchess's Bedchamber, and the King's Bedchamber, each telling a story of its past inhabitants. TikTok

The gardens are equally significant, with a formal 17th-century parterre and a Victorian kitchen garden that has been meticulously restored. The grounds extend to the River Thames, offering picturesque walks and views. The National Trust has worked diligently to maintain the authenticity and historical integrity of Ham House, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. TikTok+1

Exploring Ham House provides an immersive experience into Stuart England. The detailed preservation allows visitors to truly appreciate the grandeur and lifestyle of the aristocracy during that era. It’s a place where history feels alive, from the intricate details of the architecture to the stories whispered by the ancient walls. TikTok

Exploring the Gardens of Ham House

The gardens at Ham House are a significant attraction, offering a diverse range of landscapes and horticultural delights. The formal 17th-century garden features a meticulously recreated parterre, designed to reflect the style of the period. This area is characterized by its geometric patterns and carefully manicured hedges, providing a sense of order and historical accuracy. TikTok

Beyond the formal gardens, the Walled Kitchen Garden is a highlight, showcasing a vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This space offers a glimpse into the self-sufficiency of grand estates, with heritage varieties and traditional gardening techniques on display. It's a peaceful sanctuary, perfect for a leisurely stroll and appreciating the bounty of nature. TikTok

Visitors can also enjoy the riverside walks, which provide stunning views of the River Thames and the surrounding landscape. These paths are ideal for a relaxing walk, offering a different perspective of the estate and its natural beauty. The combination of formal design and natural landscapes makes the gardens at Ham House a truly enchanting experience for all visitors. TikTok

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