A creation of Charles I in the 17th century, a 955-hectare park of biological and historical interest lies in the London Borough of Richmond upon the Thames. Popular for its spacious woodland trails, lush grasslands, and prominent deer herds, Richmond Park is just a stone’s throw away from central London and for easy access book any serviced apartments in Marylebone.
Over 630 Red and Fallow deer freely roam Richmond Park; the Red typically larger, while the Fallow more petite and white-spotted. Thanks to the prohibition of hunting, these majestic mammals are often seen in small groups, roaming around the park’s picturesque landscapes, open grasslands, and clean rivers and ponds.
The deer are constantly on the move, but residents frequently see them in groups in several areas of the park, like the Richmond and Roehampton Gates, the Isabella Plantation, and Tamsin Trail.
Commercial photojournalists and aspiring photographers may like to distance themselves 50 meters away from the wild animals. With long lens cameras, they might want to shoot the deer in their natural habitat, especially during the autumn where the deer rut.
It’s when rivals compete for potential mates with a show of roaring and clashing antlers. Those who visit the park within May to July may want to shoot fawns that are born during these months, yet extra caution is needed as the does hide in the long, bracken grass and are highly sensitive to disturbances.
Aside from deer spotting, there are other ways to enjoy the park’s flora and fauna. The Isabella Plantation, in the middle of the park, is rich with evergreen azaleas, camellias, and rare shrubs and trees.
Surrounded by babbling streams, hidden pathways, and picnic-friendly lawns, the 40-acre woodland garden set also serves as food sources and shelter to birds, insects, bats, and amphibians. Furthermore, as the biggest and most popular walk within Richmond Park, the Tamsin Trail is a 7.5 mile, car-free circular path perfect for running or cycling, with bike fees ranging from £20 to £30 for three hours borrowed at the Parkcycle.
Alternatively, King Henry’s Mound provides an exquisite view of London—a panoramic view of the Thames Valley is seen in the west, while an elevated spot ensures a perfect view of St. Paul’s Cathedral in the east.
From mid-June to the Christmas season, you can enjoy carriage rides offered at a whopping £375. Wedding celebrations may also be enjoyed in Pembroke Lodge, the park’s highest point.
If such extravagant activities are not part of your itinerary, you could go for hot food, deli items, and teas in the Roehampton Café. Stop by to rest at the Ian Dury Bench, explore the Ham House at £11, pick up plants at the Petersham Nurseries, and drop by some pubs like The Hand & Flower and the Lass Richmond Hill.
If you plan to enjoy the delights of a natural reserve in Richmond Park, travel by the Richmond Tube Station, the nearest being 22 minutes away from the park.
Mainline stations, especially the North Sheen Railway Station, also cover 18 to 30-minute distances from the park. Any top-rated short stay apartments in London is best to stay when planning to visit Richmond Park. These are in the two-kilometer radius, and cost £115 to £145 per night of stay.
Other hotels like The Queen’s Head, The Lensbury, and Fox and Grapes are priced at £90 to £125 (nightly stay). They are a bit cheaper but are located four kilometers away from the park.
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