Things to do in Richmond Park

Things to see and do in Richmond Park

Richmond Park is the largest of the Royal Parks. A park of acid ant hill and deer-grazed grassland, reed-edged ponds, wild deer and Victorian woodlands. A National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Feel like you’re in the heart of the countryside without leaving Greater London.

Spend the day in the company of kestrels, fallow and red deer and meadow butterflies 

Richmond Park is a National Nature Reserve. A haven for rare or endangered species such as stag beetles, bats and moths, and natural habitats. There are anthills that go back 150 years and an ancient oak that’s an estimated 750 years old. The 600-strong herds of red and fallow deer have roamed the park since 1637. If you’re a wildlife lover and are passionate about the environment and our natural world, Richmond is the park for you.

An unexpected garden in the heart of the park

Much of Richmond Park’s wild landscape was created naturally, by centuries of grazing deer, but if you love the more confined spaces of a garden, the 40 acre Isabella Plantation, with its tranquil woodland paths and streams, and famous azalea collection, is a true oasis. Pembroke Lodge Gardens, with its varied planting and spectacular views to the north and south, is another must-visit destination within the park.

Sports activities in Richmond Park

With miles of horse riding trails, roads to cycle and paths to run or walk on, Richmond Park is a great place to keep fit and stay fit. Take the family-friendly, Tamsin trail which circles the park or have a round of golf on our two 18-hole courses. If you'd like to fly a traction kits you can apply for a licence here. It’s even possible to fish here, with a permit.

Bring the family for a taste of the wild

The whole park is a playground for mini-adventures and exploring but if you’re looking for swings and slides, head to the Petersham Gate Playground. Rock star Ian Dury was a big fan of Richmond Park and brought his own children here. You’ll find the Ian Dury Bench a five minute stroll from the Pembroke Lodge Café – celebrating all the ‘reasons to be cheerful’ when you’re in the park.

A haven for photographers

Richmond Park is a natural choice for wildlife photography. Capture the mist drifting over Pen Ponds, or the London skyline from King Henry’s Mound – the highest point in the park, with a protected view of St. Paul’s Cathedral, over 10 miles away. All we ask is that you use a long lens when photographing the deer, and stay at least 50m away. Feel free to share your images on our social media feeds. 

Take a horse-drawn carriage

Experience Richmond Park in a magical way by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. These rides are available on various dates from late November to early January. Proceeds support conservation initiatives with the Shire horses in The Royal Parks. The ride includes a behind-the-scenes visit to the stables to learn about these gentle giants, the last working herd in London.