Sport & leisure in Bushy Park

Sport and leisure in Bushy Park

Stroll through the Waterhouse Woodland Gardens, play a game of cricket on a Sunday afternoon, or cheer on the local rugby and football teams as you look out over the park.

Enjoying sport and nature in Bushy Park

If you like to keep fit and active, you’ll find plenty to keep you that way at Bushy Park. From cricket to tennis, football, rugby, yoga, and fishing, there’s plenty to do.

Come and support one of the many cricket, football and rugby teams here, book a court for tennis, or take a fitness class. The park has five sports clubs and you don’t have to be a local resident to use them – just get in touch directly via their websites.

Fishing

Fishing is permitted in the waters of Hampton Court and Bushy Park during the season (from 16 June 2024). To fish in the waters of Hampton Court, Home Park and Bushy Park you must have a valid Fishing permit and are subject to the permit's Terms and Conditions. To fish in the River Thames you require an EA licence only.

The 2023/2024 Fishing season is now closed, and Historic Royal Palaces are preparing for the 2024/2025 season which starts on 16 June 2024.  

The application process for the new season opened on 24 April 2024, and the 2024/2025 Fishing Licence applications are available on Historic Royal Palaces website, along with guidance on how to apply.

Historic Royal Palaces will process all applications within 10 working days of receipt of a complete application.  If you have had a licence previously, you will automatically receive a new application form.

Running, cycling and jogging round Bushy Park

Bushy Park is a hub for runners, joggers and cyclists, with a wide variety of different trails and tracks to choose, from 5km to the well-loved 10km Perimeter Loop. You’ll see people out every day of the year, some in serious training for one of the London Marathons, or just jogging on a misty morning. The Parkrun phenomenon started in Bushy Park, and every Saturday you’re welcome to join upwards of 700 local runners.

The eight Royal Parks have over 32 miles of road and 27 miles of cycle paths, and we welcome cyclists. Many locals use the designated routes as part of their commute to work. We do ask that you keep to the assigned paths and tracks, and respect those on foot, as well as the wildlife who sometimes cross the paths. Bushy Park also offers Companion Cycling using modified bikes, so that the beautiful trails and woodlands of the park are accessible to as many people as possible

Want to play rugby or football in Bushy Park?

Bushy Park is a local focal point for rugby and football. It’s the home of Harlequin Amateurs and Teddington Rugby Club, and two local football clubs; Teddington Athletic FC and Hampton and Richmond Borough Football are based here. Come and support the teams or sign up to play – or if you want to play rugby or football independently, contact Bushy Park Sports Club, and book a pitch.

Want to play cricket in Bushy Park?

Bushy has a beautifully maintained pitch and pavilion facilities for cricket lovers – whether you like to play or just watch. It’s home to both Teddington Town and Teddington Cricket Clubs as well as Hampton Hill and Hampton Wick Cricket Clubs; all very friendly, local teams who welcome new joiners of all abilities, and juniors.

A trip to the Bushy Park Playground

For lots of families who live close by, The Bushy Park Playground has become part of daily life. Even if you’re just here for the day, the playground is a great space for kids to let off steam and for you to take a seat. Located close to the Diana Fountain and Hampton Court entrance, The playground has first class play facilities, including cradle swings, a sandpit and turtle drums for the pre-schoolers, and a fantastic timber climbing frame for older children.

Swimming in Bushy Park

You can also go for a swim in the open air Hampton Pool, located right next to the park. The water is heated, so no matter the weather it's a great place to get in a few lengths. There's a gym too.