Gardens in Richmond Park

Explore the winding woodland paths and streams of Isabella Plantation. Take cream tea in an 18th century garden, overlooking the Thames Valley. Revive body and soul in two beautiful gardens.

Richmond’s ‘secret garden’ – Isabella Plantation

Isabella Plantation is an enclosed, 40 acre woodland garden, an oasis in the  heart of the park. A delightful place to wander at will along meandering streamside pathways under the shade of oak trees. Set within a Victorian woodland plantation, Isabella has been designed and planted to provide year-round colour: azaleas steal the show in early May, with vibrant acers in autumn and heathers in winter. It’s famous for its National Plant Collection of evergreen Kurume azaleas from Japan, and abundant spring-flowering camellias, magnolia and rhododendrons.

You’ll find plenty of benches, and many unusual trees and shrubs set amongst woodland and lawns, so it's easy to find a secluded corner to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

It’s so important for people living in cities to be able to enjoy peace and quiet among the trees. It feels great to enjoy a bit of nature on your doorstep – and it’s all free.” 

 Arit Anderson, gardening writer, on Isabella Plantation

Rambling roses, wildflowers and panoramic views – Pembroke Lodge gardens

Grade II listed Pembroke Lodge was originally named the ‘Molecatchers Cottage’, but it went on to become the home of Prime Minister Lord John Russell. Pembroke Lodge Gardens are close to Richmond Gate and has a licensed café as well as 12 acres of gardens, with breathtaking views. 

Immediately surrounding the lodge, you’ll find more formal planting and paths, and seasonal bedding displays. To the north, the planting becomes more naturalistic, and in the Rose Garden and the cottage garden you’ll find romantic climbing and rambling roses alongside colourful herbaceous borders.

From King Henry’s Mound, a Bronze Age barrow and Scheduled Ancient Monument, you can see 12 miles across London to St Paul’s Cathedral – one of London’s 13 protected views.

Richmond Park is known and loved for its open grasslands, ancient oaks and wildlife but Isabella Plantation and the gardens at Pembroke Lodge are also perfect places to escape into nature. Stroll across the lawns, between the wonderful collections of mature and veteran trees. Or lose an hour or two in one of the Pembroke Lodge wildflower meadows. And like all Royal Parks gardens, the Richmond Park gardens are sustainably managed, with nature and biodiversity in mind.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome on leads in Isabella Plantation but unfortunately you can’t bring them into Pembroke Lodge and Gardens. You’ll also need to keep them on a lead across the park when it’s deer birthing time from May-July. We put notices round the park to give you plenty of warning.