Richmond Park London
London's largest Royal Park, a vast 2,500-acre haven for free-roaming deer, stunning gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Isabella Plantation in bloom
Richmond Park London
Best Time
Isabella Plantation in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
London's largest Royal Park, a vast 2,500-acre haven for free-roaming deer, stunning gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views.
"A reminder that some things should be preserved, not just for the some, but for everyone who seeks peace."
🦌 Respect the Deer
Maintain a 50m distance from deer. Never feed or disturb them.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Free-Roaming Deer
Throughout the park
Witness majestic herds of red and fallow deer grazing freely in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable sight!
Isabella Plantation
South-west corner of the park
A stunning woodland garden bursting with vibrant azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias, especially beautiful in spring.
King Henry's Mound
Near Pembroke Lodge
Offers one of London's most protected and breathtaking panoramic views, stretching all the way to St. Paul's Cathedral.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Deer Etiquette
Plan Your Park Exploration
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦌 Respect the Deer
Maintain a 50m distance from deer. Never feed or disturb them.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature. Cafes are available but can be busy.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Sunrises and sunsets offer magical light for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦌 Respect the Deer
Maintain a 50m distance from deer. Never feed or disturb them.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature. Cafes are available but can be busy.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Sunrises and sunsets offer magical light for stunning photos.
🚗 Parking Tips
Car parks can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Richmond Park for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, offering a much-needed escape from urban life. While the sheer size can be overwhelming, the opportunity to see free-roaming deer and explore beautiful gardens like the Isabella Plantation makes it a highly rewarding experience. Some find parking challenging during peak times.
"In a city that’s long struggled with inequality and pollution, this protected stretch of land is a small but powerful victory. It’s a reminder that some things should be preserved, not just for the some, but for everyone who seeks peace, meaning, or a moment to breathe.
I walked the shoreline with the weight of miles behind me and purpose in my chest. Here, you can feel your soul stretch out again. The trails, lagoon, and sweeping vistas speak to those who’ve fought hard! Those who know what it means to lose and still rise."
mansa shaka
"This spot feels like a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the water. It features a small lagoon with geese, lush greenery, and a welcoming atmosphere for dogs. The picturesque scenery makes it perfect for a picnic or a relaxing evening stroll."
Mohita Traveler
"A beautiful waterfront public park with ample benches, open fields, a cute lagoon, stunning views of the Bay and plenty of parking and public restrooms"
Nash Holcomb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Richmond Park via public transport. Take the District Line to Richmond Station, then hop on a bus (like the 371 or 65) or enjoy a pleasant walk to one of the park's gates. Alternatively, Overground services also serve Richmond.
Yes, there are several car parks within Richmond Park, including those near Pembroke Lodge and Roehampton Gate. However, they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended.
Cycling is a popular way to explore Richmond Park. There are dedicated cycle paths, and you can even rent bikes near the park. Remember to be mindful of pedestrians and deer.
Many of the main paths in Richmond Park are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, offering a good experience for visitors with mobility needs. Some areas might be more challenging due to terrain.
The closest train station is Richmond Station, which is well-connected to central London. Other nearby stations include Kingston and Wimbledon, from which you can take a bus or taxi to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Richmond Park is a Royal Park and entry is free for everyone. You do not need to purchase any tickets to enter and explore the park.
Richmond Park is open from early morning until dusk. The gates are locked at night, so ensure you exit before closing time. Specific times vary seasonally.
Yes, dogs are very welcome in Richmond Park! However, they must be kept under close control, especially during deer birthing seasons (May-July) and the rutting season (September-November).
Absolutely! Richmond Park is a fantastic spot for picnics. There are many open spaces and designated picnic areas. Remember to take all your litter with you.
The Isabella Plantation is part of Richmond Park and is free to enter. There are no separate admission fees for this beautiful garden.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for photography, creating beautiful colours and long shadows. Early mornings also mean fewer crowds and more active wildlife.
Key spots include the Isabella Plantation for its floral displays, King Henry's Mound for panoramic views, and any area where deer are grazing. The park's varied landscapes offer endless photographic opportunities.
Yes, photographing the deer is a major draw. However, always maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens to capture close-up shots without disturbing them.
Drones are generally not permitted in Royal Parks, including Richmond Park, without prior written consent from The Royal Parks. This is to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.
A versatile zoom lens (e.g., 70-200mm or 100-400mm) is ideal for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and the Isabella Plantation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The Isabella Plantation offers a beautiful, sensory experience with its colourful flowers, and there are playgrounds like the one near Petersham Gate for younger children. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst nature, making it a cost-effective and fun outing. Many of the main paths are accessible for pushchairs, making it easier to navigate with little ones. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities can be spread out.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Enjoy the panoramic views from King Henry's Mound or find a secluded bench to watch the deer. The park's atmosphere is generally peaceful, especially on weekdays, allowing for a truly restorative experience.
+1📸 Photographers
The Isabella Plantation provides stunning floral photography opportunities, especially in spring. Don't miss the golden hour light for dramatic shots of the park and its inhabitants. +1King Henry's Mound offers incredible cityscape photography opportunities, particularly at sunset. The park's ancient trees, open grasslands, and lakes also provide endless compositions. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and arrive early to secure the best spots and light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: The Deer of Richmond Park
+1Spotting the deer is a highlight for many visitors. They are often seen grazing in herds in the open parkland, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. The Isabella Plantation is also a popular spot, and while the focus is on the flora, deer can sometimes be seen wandering nearby. Remember that the park is large, so patience and a keen eye are often rewarded with incredible wildlife sightings.
+1Beyond the deer, Richmond Park is a haven for various bird species, including rare waterfowl on its ponds and lakes. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers, kestrels, and even occasional sightings of birds of prey. The park's diverse habitats, from ancient trees to open grasslands and wetlands, support a rich ecosystem, making it a vital nature reserve within the urban landscape.
Exploring the Isabella Plantation
Visitors often describe the Isabella Plantation as a hidden oasis, offering a tranquil escape from the more open areas of the park. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, photography, or simply to sit and admire the natural beauty. The garden is meticulously maintained, with seasonal planting ensuring there's always something of interest to see, even outside of the peak spring bloom.
While the spring is undoubtedly the most spectacular time to visit, the Isabella Plantation offers charm throughout the year. In autumn, the foliage turns to beautiful shades of red and gold, and the evergreens provide structure and colour during winter. It's a testament to the enduring beauty of horticultural design and a must-visit for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.
Panoramic Views from King Henry's Mound
The journey to the mound itself is part of the experience, often involving a pleasant walk through the park. Once you reach the summit, you're rewarded with a sweeping panorama that showcases the vastness of London. It's a fantastic spot to gain perspective on the city and appreciate its historical and modern architecture from afar.
King Henry's Mound is particularly stunning during clear days, offering unobstructed views. It's also a popular spot for sunset, where the changing light can cast a beautiful glow over the cityscape. Bring binoculars if you have them to spot landmarks in the distance.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit