Spot the best hotels near Richmond Park

London's busy streets feel worlds away within Richmond Park, a sprawling expanse of wild grassland and woods. As a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, it serves as a home to hundreds of free-roaming deer that wander across the 4 square miles of open space.

Richmond Park is the largest of London's Royal Parks and provides plenty of room for long walks, cycling, or simply enjoying a quiet picnic. It is the largest of London's Royal Parks and provides plenty of room for long walks, cycling, or simply enjoying a quiet picnic.

Planning your visit to the park

While entry to the main grounds is free, there are parking fees if you choose to drive. The gates for pedestrians remain open 24 hours a day for most of the year, though this changes during specific seasonal events. If you are arriving by train, the nearest transport link is Richmond Station, which is roughly a 25-minute walk from the Richmond Gate entrance.

You should check the official website for current opening times and any seasonal restrictions, as vehicle gates usually close at dusk. To get the best experience, try arriving early in the morning to avoid the busier afternoon crowds and enjoy the morning mist over the ponds.

Things to do in the open air

You can explore a variety of trails, including the Tamsin Trail, which is a 7 miles circular path popular with both walkers and cyclists. For those who prefer being on two wheels, bike rental available near Roehampton Gate makes it easy to see more of the landscape in a shorter time. If you enjoy a challenge, the gentle hills provide a great workout for runners and hikers alike.

For a more relaxed afternoon, head to Isabella Plantation, a 40-acre woodland garden known for its evergreen shrubs and clear streams. It is a quiet spot for photography or finding a hidden bench to relax. There are also designated areas for kite flying and specific horse riding paths if you are looking for a different way to travel through the park.

Discovering the wildlife and scenery

One of the most popular sights here is the herd of over 600 red and fallow deer that have lived in these woods since the 17th century. You are encouraged to keep a distance of at least 50 m from the animals for your safety and theirs. The park is also a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, protecting a wide range of rare insects and ancient oak trees that are hundreds of years old.

From the top of King Henry's Mound, you can enjoy a protected view of St Paul's Cathedral, which is located over 10 miles away. A telescope is often provided to help you spot the distant dome through a specially maintained gap in the trees. The landscape changes beautifully with the seasons, from golden ferns in autumn to lush green meadows during the summer months.

Please check the official Richmond Park website for up-to-date information on opening hours, seasonal closures, and any specific ticket requirements for parking or organized activities.

Finding your way around Richmond Park is easy, and there are plenty of options to stay around the area and options for reaching it. You can choose from quiet riverside spots or busier high streets that lead straight to the gates.

Where to base yourself for your visit

Staying in Richmond is your best bet if you want a mix of boutique charm and easy access to the hills. This area is perfect for couples looking for high-end stays or families who want to be within a 15-minute walk of the Richmond Gate entrance. If you are watching your budget, look towards Kingston upon Thames to the south, which offers larger hotels with a 24-hour reception and plenty of riverside dining. For a quieter, more local feel, East Sheen has lovely bed and breakfasts and puts you just 0 miles from the park's edge. Many places here offer bike rental available on-site, which is a great way to explore the 2,500 acres of open space.

Getting to the green space

You can reach the park easily by taking the District Line or London Overground to Richmond Station, which is about 1 mile from the nearest entrance. From the station, you can hop on the 371 bus or 65 bus for a 10-minute journey that drops you right by the gates. If you are coming from the south, Kingston Station is a major hub with frequent trains from central London, leaving you a short 15-minute walk from the Kingston Gate.

Discovering the best hotels near Richmond Park is a breeze when you use eDreams. By filtering options that align with your specific travel plans, you can quickly snag the best prices available. Pick your favourite place today and get ready for a memorable trip.