
Upper Lodge Water Gardens Bushy Park
A serene oasis within Bushy Park, featuring tranquil water gardens, abundant birdlife, and the gentle flow of the Longford River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Upper Lodge Water Gardens Bushy Park
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene oasis within Bushy Park, featuring tranquil water gardens, abundant birdlife, and the gentle flow of the Longford River.
"Delightful Gardens in an amazing park, very relaxing and a great place for meditation."

🥾 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the gardens and surrounding parkland with ease. Paths are well-maintained but extensive.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the serene beauty and diverse wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upper Lodge Water Gardens
Central pond area
A tranquil oasis with a central pond, charming bridges, and lush greenery. Perfect for peaceful strolls and quiet contemplation.

Abundant Birdlife
Around the pond and river
Spot ducks, herons, and wagtails. A haven for birdwatchers and nature photographers alike.

Longford River
Adjacent to the gardens
Listen to the gentle flow of the river as you wander the paths, adding to the garden's peaceful ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the gardens and surrounding parkland with ease. Paths are well-maintained but extensive.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the serene beauty and diverse wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light.
🐦 Binoculars for Birding
Enhance your wildlife spotting experience, especially for the various bird species.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing meal amidst nature. Plenty of scenic spots to choose from.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the gardens and surrounding parkland with ease. Paths are well-maintained but extensive.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the serene beauty and diverse wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light.
🐦 Binoculars for Birding
Enhance your wildlife spotting experience, especially for the various bird species.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing meal amidst nature. Plenty of scenic spots to choose from.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Upper Lodge Water Gardens for their peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, making it a delightful escape within the larger Bushy Park. The abundant birdlife and the gentle flow of the Longford River add to the charm, though occasional gate closures and the distance to facilities are minor drawbacks.
"Very relaxing, great place for meditation, quite time and in my case, just read! Delightful Gardens in an amazing park."
Paul
"Pretty gardens with a water feature in the middle. There are paths that encircle the pond in the middle, and when you're walking near the edge, you can hear the sound of the Longford River flowing beside you. For some reason, when I went, the gates to the bridge over the river were closed, but I am sure they must be opened at some point."
Reece Mercer
"Beautiful and peaceful area within the park to relax and stroll down. There are ducks and swans around 🦢☘️. Really nice experience! I recommend to sit down under a tree and enjoy the breeze. It is really nice place to enjoy the day with kids as well."
Giselle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Upper Lodge Water Gardens is located within Bushy Park. You can reach Bushy Park by car, bus, or train. The nearest train stations are Teddington and Hampton Wick. From there, it's a walk or short bus ride into the park. Parking is available within Bushy Park, but can get busy on weekends.
Yes, there are several car parks within Bushy Park. The closest ones to the Upper Lodge Water Gardens are typically the Woodland Gardens car park or the Teddington Gate car park. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.
Cycling is a great way to explore Bushy Park. There are designated cycle paths throughout the park, and you can bring your bike to the gardens. Remember to be mindful of pedestrians.
Yes, you can take buses that stop near Bushy Park. From the bus stops, it's a pleasant walk into the park to reach the gardens. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
Bushy Park has multiple gates, including Teddington Gate, Hampton Wick Gate, and Sandy Lane Gate. Each provides access to different parts of the park, including routes leading towards the Upper Lodge Water Gardens.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Upper Lodge Water Gardens and Bushy Park is free. You can enjoy the gardens and the park's natural beauty without any admission fee.
Bushy Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. The Upper Lodge Water Gardens, being within the park, follows these hours. It's best to check The Royal Parks website for any specific seasonal changes or temporary closures.
There is no entrance fee for Bushy Park. It is a public park managed by The Royal Parks, and access is free for everyone.
While Bushy Park is open from dawn until dusk, it's not recommended to visit the gardens after dark due to safety and park regulations. The best experience is during daylight hours.
General park rules apply, such as keeping dogs on leads in certain areas and not disturbing wildlife. The gates to the bridge over the river may sometimes be closed.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, creating a soft, golden glow. These times also tend to be less crowded, allowing for more creative shots.
You can photograph various bird species like ducks, herons, and wagtails, as well as the park's famous deer. The water features also provide lovely reflections and scenic opportunities.
Generally, casual photography is welcome. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check The Royal Parks guidelines if you plan extensive shoots.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and general shots. For wildlife, a telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) is highly recommended.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance from the deer, especially during rutting season. Never feed them or attempt to get too close for a photo.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful walks, relax by the water, observe wildlife, and take in the beautiful garden scenery. It's an ideal spot for meditation or reading a book.
While there aren't direct facilities within the immediate garden area, Bushy Park has restrooms and cafes located at various points, such as the Pheasantry Cafe or the Woodland Gardens Cafe. Check the park map for their locations.
Yes, it's a lovely place for families. Children can enjoy spotting ducks and swans and exploring the open spaces of Bushy Park. Supervise them closely near the water.
Dogs are welcome in Bushy Park but must be kept on a lead in designated areas, including around the gardens and near wildlife. Always clean up after your pet.
The gardens are known for being very relaxing, peaceful, and tranquil. It's a delightful escape for quiet time and enjoying nature's ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bushy Park's Wildlife
Beyond the birds and deer, the Longford River that flows alongside the gardens supports a variety of aquatic life and provides a soothing soundtrack to your visit. The presence of these animals adds a dynamic element to the serene landscape, making it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The community often shares stunning photos of these creatures, highlighting the park's rich biodiversity.
The Serenity of the Water Gardens
While the gardens themselves are a focal point, they are part of the larger, beautiful expanse of Bushy Park. This makes it easy to combine a visit to the gardens with a longer stroll or picnic within the park. The combination of manicured garden elements and the wilder natural beauty of the park offers a diverse and enriching experience for all visitors. The ambiance is consistently praised for its delightful and peaceful qualities.





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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit