Old Deer Park
Expansive green space in Richmond, perfect for sports, picnics, and family fun. Features a playground and hosts a popular Parkrun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Old Deer Park
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive green space in Richmond, perfect for sports, picnics, and family fun. Features a playground and hosts a popular Parkrun.
"Great for the kids and dogs but don't expect to see deer roaming these grounds."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Plenty of space for dogs to run! Keep them on a lead near sports pitches.
👟 Parkrun Ready
Join the free 5k Parkrun every Saturday at 9 AM. Book in advance!
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 239 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Open Playing Fields
Main expanse of the park
Vast green spaces perfect for picnics, casual sports, and letting kids and dogs roam freely.
Children's Playground
Near the visitor center/sports facilities
A well-maintained playground offering fun for younger visitors, making it a family-friendly destination.
Thames Path Access
Eastern edge of the park
Connects to the scenic Thames Path for leisurely walks along the river, offering lovely views.
Parkrun Saturdays
Starting point near sports facilities
Join the energetic Saturday morning 5k Parkrun for a dose of community fitness and fun.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Deer Spotting & Park Access
Weekend Buzz vs. Weekday Calm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Plenty of space for dogs to run! Keep them on a lead near sports pitches.
👟 Parkrun Ready
Join the free 5k Parkrun every Saturday at 9 AM. Book in advance!
✈️ Plane Spotting
Located on a flight path to Heathrow, enjoy the frequent drone of planes overhead.
💧 River Path Caution
Areas near the Thames Path can get waterlogged after rain or high tide.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Plenty of space for dogs to run! Keep them on a lead near sports pitches.
👟 Parkrun Ready
Join the free 5k Parkrun every Saturday at 9 AM. Book in advance!
✈️ Plane Spotting
Located on a flight path to Heathrow, enjoy the frequent drone of planes overhead.
💧 River Path Caution
Areas near the Thames Path can get waterlogged after rain or high tide.
⚽ Sports Spectacle
Watch local cricket, football, and rugby matches on weekends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Old Deer Park is a well-loved local green space, praised for its vast playing fields, family-friendly playground, and dog-friendly atmosphere. It's a hub for community sports and the popular Saturday Parkrun. While not a place for deer spotting, its accessibility and open nature make it ideal for relaxed outings and active pursuits.
"Old Deer Park is a spacious and peaceful green area, ideal for a relaxed walk or spending time outdoors. It has a calm, open atmosphere that’s perfect for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking to unwind in nature. You’ll often see children practicing sports like cricket or football, which brings a nice community feel to the park.
It’s also dog-friendly, with plenty of space for dogs to run and explore. Whether you’re after a quiet stroll, some light exercise, or a bit of time in the fresh air, this park offers a lovely setting. Parking is available nearby, making it easily accessible. A great local spot for both leisure and play!"
Sana Fathima
"Old Deer Park is close to Richmond Lock along the Thames River. The walk to Richmond Bridge takes roughly twenty minutes. The National Rail/Overground station and Richmond Underground (District Line) are both 5 minutes' walk away. Great for dogs and children, but don't expect to see deer wandering around. The children can play in a pleasant playground. On weekends, when players swarm the football and rugby fields, it could be hectic. Every Saturday at 9 a.m., there is a parkrun. Parking is plentiful on the opposite side of the road."
Babji Vundavilli
"Excellent park with loads of space. Great for watching aeroplanes that come over every 60 seconds! Went to see Fleetwood Unchained, amazing tribute band at ParkRock festival. Great day out"
Paul Goddard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Deer Park is easily accessible. The nearest station is Richmond (District Line, Overground, National Rail), about a 5-minute walk away. Several bus routes also serve the area.
Yes, there is a large Pay & Display car park available. It has extra-long spaces suitable for vehicles with boat trailers.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about twenty minutes from Richmond Bridge along the Thames River.
Absolutely! It's a short walk from Richmond Station and well-served by local bus routes.
Most participants arrive via Richmond Station, which is a short walk away. Parking is also available if you prefer to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Deer Park is a public park and entry is free for everyone.
As a public park, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific facility hours may vary.
The playground is free to use for all visitors.
The Parkrun is free to participate in, but you need to register online beforehand.
While the fields are open for casual use, organized sports teams may have booking fees for pitches.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Despite its name, Old Deer Park is not known for wild deer. For deer sightings, head to the larger Richmond Park.
You can enjoy picnics, casual sports, walking, jogging, and using the children's playground. It's also a popular spot for dog walkers.
Yes, it has a nice playground and plenty of open space for kids to play safely.
Yes, Old Deer Park is very dog-friendly, with ample space for them to exercise.
It's a popular, flat 5k run on grass and paths, attracting a friendly community of runners every Saturday.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a dedicated cafe within Old Deer Park itself, there are sports facilities that may offer refreshments. The nearby visitor center in Richmond Park has a cafe.
Absolutely! The open fields are perfect for picnics. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Yes, the area around Richmond Station and Richmond Bridge offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
Event organizers may provide food and drink options. Otherwise, you can bring your own or explore nearby eateries.
Typically, there are no dedicated kiosks within Old Deer Park itself. It's best to bring your own or visit nearby shops.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture wide-angle shots of the playing fields, families enjoying picnics, dogs playing, and the planes overhead. The Thames Path offers scenic river views.
While not for deer, you might spot ducks and other birdlife along the river. The planes provide a unique photographic subject.
Yes, capturing the energy of sports matches or the Parkrun can make for dynamic photos.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant activity of sports.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial use or large-scale events, check with the local council.
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