Richmond Park is London’s largest Royal Park, a vast and beautiful expanse of over 2,500 acres where deer have roamed freely since 1637. It’s a perfect destination for a family day out, offering a rare slice of wild countryside within the capital. Visit during the rutting season from September to November to witness the dramatic sight of stags in full display – but keep your distance, as these powerful animals can become unexpectedly bold. Whether you’re driving through, exploring on foot, hiking, or cycling, Richmond Park offers space, serenity, and a real connection to nature in every season.

Wildlife aplenty

Deer are a highlight of any visit to Richmond Park, but they can be elusive – so keep your eyes peeled! The park is home to majestic red stags and fallow bucks, especially striking during the rutting season in autumn. This is when you may see males adorned with moss, lichen, and leaves in a dramatic effort to impress females. The air fills with the sound of roaring stags, clashing antlers, and fierce competition for dominance – an unforgettable glimpse of nature in action. It’s also easy to see where the phrase “doe eyes” comes from when observing the park’s graceful females.

From May to July, look out – quietly – for newborn fawns, often hidden in bracken and long grasses under the watchful protection of their mothers. Over centuries, Richmond’s deer have shaped the landscape itself. Notice the clear “browse line” on trees – an indicator of how these animals feed on all vegetation below about 1.5 metres, helping to maintain the park’s open grasslands.

Please remember: deer are wild animals. For your safety and theirs, keep a minimum distance of 50 metres, especially during the rut or around protective mothers and their calves.

Wildlife Conservation

Nature abounds throughout Richmond Park, offering a haven for wildlife and a rich variety of flora and fauna across its vast landscapes. Ancient woodlands, open grasslands, and shimmering ponds create diverse habitats that support everything from rare wildflowers and fungi to birds of prey, bats, and countless insect species. The park is designated a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, underlining its ecological importance. Look out for parakeets flitting through the treetops, owls roosting in old oaks, and a colourful display of seasonal wildflowers that transform the landscape throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a casual visitor, Richmond Park offers an ever-changing and immersive experience of the natural world right in the heart of London.

Food and Drink

Richmond Park is an ideal setting for a peaceful picnic, offering a rare escape into nature within the city. Bring your own blanket and basket, and find a quiet spot beside one of the park’s tranquil ponds or lakes, such as Pen Ponds, where you can relax to the sound of birdsong and the gentle ripple of water. Surrounded by wide open spaces, ancient trees, and grazing deer, it’s the perfect place to unwind with family or friends. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch in the sun or a quiet moment under the shade of an oak, a picnic in Richmond Park offers a simple yet memorable way to connect with nature and soak in the beauty of this vast green sanctuary.

Pembroke Lodge

Enjoying a fantastic vantage point overlooking Richmond Park, The Lodge is a stunning Georgian mansion that offers a variety of refreshments and meals, making it the perfect spot to relax after a long walk through the park. Whether you’re after a hearty meal or a light bite, the café’s selection is sure to satisfy. This elegant venue is also a popular choice for events and weddings, with its picturesque setting and versatile spaces. For a more casual treat, head to the Roehampton Cafe, where you can indulge in ice creams, tea, and snacks. With both indoor and outdoor seating available, it’s an ideal place to enjoy a sunny afternoon. Open daily, it provides a welcoming spot to refuel while taking in the park’s natural beauty.

Cycling

Richmond Park is a fantastic destination for cycling, offering a mix of scenic trails and peaceful paths perfect for riders of all ages and abilities. You can either bring your own bike or easily rent a mountain bike from the Parkcycle Centre near Roehampton Gate. The park features a variety of traffic-free trails, making it an excellent spot for family-friendly rides. Whether you prefer a leisurely cycle through flat terrain or are looking for a more challenging ride with some hilly routes, the park caters to all levels with graded tracks. With its expansive open spaces and stunning natural surroundings, Richmond Park provides the ideal setting for a refreshing cycling adventure at your own pace.

Children’s playgrounds

For families with pre-school children, the Kingston Gate Playground is a fantastic spot. Located near the Kingston Gate Car Park, this playground is specially designed for younger kids. It boasts timber sculptures, including a beloved fairy pergola and a tractor, a bark pit, a cozy hammock, and children’s tables and seats—all of which offer a wonderful space for little ones to explore and play safely.

For children of all ages, the Petersham Gate Playground offers a wider variety of fun activities. It features a sandpit area, a bark pit with climbing frame and jumping lily pads, balancing blocks, a whimsical elephant piano (a xylophone), a see-saw, and an exciting water play feature. A charming timber pergola provides shade, and seating is available for parents to relax while the children enjoy their playtime. It’s the perfect spot for an active and imaginative day out for the whole family.

Travelling to the park

By public transport: Richmond Park is easily accessible by public transport so we suggest you plan your journey by visiting the Transport for London website.

Driving to Richmond Park: There are car parks available in Richmond Park, although they do get rather busy at time. See Parking in Richmond Park.

The park covers a large area – the postcode for guidance is TW10 5HS.

Travelling by tube/train: Richmond Station – National Rail or District Line (and then catch the 371 or 65 buses to the pedestrian gate at Petersham).

Arriving by bus:
190, 391, 419, R68. Northside – 33, 337, 485. Southside 85/N85, 265, K3, Eastside 72, 493, Westside 65, 371.

Accommodation nearby

If you’re planning a family trip to Richmond Park, you may want to stay nearby to make the most of your time in this beautiful green space. There are a variety of family-friendly apartments just a short distance from the park, offering comfort and convenience for your stay. Whether you’re looking for spacious accommodations with full kitchens, or simply a cozy base from which to explore the park and surrounding areas, you’ll find options that suit your needs.  See apartments nearby….. and start planning your perfect family getaway today!