Richmond Park London
A vast royal park with free-roaming deer, offering stunning London skyline views and a peaceful natural escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for deer sightings
Richmond Park London
Best Time
Best for deer sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast royal park with free-roaming deer, offering stunning London skyline views and a peaceful natural escape.
"Witness hundreds of wild deer roaming freely in their natural habitat – a truly unforgettable sight."
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
🦌 Respect the Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from the deer and never feed them. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Deer Herds
Throughout the park
Witness hundreds of wild red and fallow deer roaming freely in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable sight.
Richmond View Point
Kingston Gate area
Breathtaking panoramic views of the London skyline, offering a stunning contrast to the park's natural beauty.
Isabella Plantation
South of the park
A beautiful woodland garden with vibrant flowers, especially stunning in spring and summer. A peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Deer Spotting
Navigating the Vast Green Expanse
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
🦌 Respect the Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from the deer and never feed them. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning sunsets and the chance to photograph the deer. Early morning light is magical. +1
🚲 Cycle the Park
Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the park's many trails and cover more ground.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
🦌 Respect the Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from the deer and never feed them. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning sunsets and the chance to photograph the deer. Early morning light is magical. +1
🚲 Cycle the Park
Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the park's many trails and cover more ground.
☕ Grab a Refreshment
There are cafes within the park, but options can be limited. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Richmond Park for its stunning natural beauty, the unique experience of seeing wild deer, and the breathtaking views of the London skyline. It's a peaceful sanctuary offering a welcome escape from the city bustle. Some find the park's size overwhelming and note that amenities like cafes can be limited or busy.
"Such a beautiful beautiful park! It’s so vast that you can walk around for the whole day and there’ll still be places left unexplored. It’s hands down one of the best green spaces in London. The park has this peaceful, wild atmosphere that’s hard to find in London. There are open grasslands, wooded areas, little ponds, and loads of walking and cycling paths that can keep you exploring for hours.
If you’re lucky, you will find deer casually wandering around.
You can walk, run, bike, or simple chill under a tree, it feels amazing to do so, connecting with nature and with your own thoughts. You can also get some great views over London from King Henry’s Mound.
I went on a sunny weekend and the crowd wasn’t much as expected. The park is so big that if you walk a bit further in, you’ll always find quiet spots.
And if you are a Ted Lasso fan, you’ll find places in Richmond that you’d have seen in the series.
Highly recommend the place!"
Ankitha Chapte
"Beautiful park with breathtaking views. We adore deers so it was a pleasant sight to see them roaming freely. Plenty free parking on-site , free entry too."
Maisha Mohamath Ali
"A must-visit green escape in London
Richmond Park is massive, peaceful, and full of natural beauty. The wild deer are the highlight and make the experience magical. Perfect for picnics, walks, or a family day out — and it’s all free!
If you're looking for one of the best free things to do in London, especially for nature lovers, this park is a perfect choice. With wide open spaces, beautiful gardens, and plenty of walking and cycling paths, there’s something for everyone.
The real gem is seeing the deer roam freely — it adds a unique and unforgettable touch to the visit.
Kid‑friendly: A great option for families. Children will love spotting the deer, running through the open fields, and enjoying a relaxed outdoor day. Plenty of space for picnics and play.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, Richmond Park is a peaceful escape from the city that’s well worth your time. I absolutely loved it and will definitely be back!"
Natalia Pysklyvets
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Richmond Park via train to Richmond Station, followed by a bus or a walk. Several bus routes serve the park entrances. Driving is also an option, but parking can be limited, especially on weekends.
Richmond Station is the most common arrival point. From there, you can take a bus (like the 371 or 65) or enjoy a pleasant walk to one of the park's gates.
Yes, Richmond Park is well-served by public transport. Buses frequently stop near various entrances, and Richmond Station is a key hub for train services. +1
There are car parks within Richmond Park, but they can fill up quickly, particularly during peak times and weekends. Consider arriving early if you plan to drive.
The best gate depends on your destination. Petersham Gate is good for families with a playground nearby, while Richmond Gate offers access to the viewpoint.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Richmond Park is free to enter. There are no admission fees for pedestrians or cyclists.
Richmond Park is open from early morning until dusk. The gates are locked at night, so check the specific closing times for the season.
Yes, there is a parking fee for vehicles within Richmond Park. The charges vary depending on the duration of your stay.
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular activity in Richmond Park, with many designated routes. You can even rent bikes within or near the park.
Dogs are welcome in Richmond Park but must be kept under control at all times, especially during deer breeding seasons. They are not permitted in certain areas like the Isabella Plantation.
🎫 🦌 Wildlife & Nature
The best times to see deer are early morning and late afternoon. They are most active during these cooler parts of the day.
Richmond Park is home to two main species of deer: Red Deer and Fallow Deer. The Red Deer are the larger of the two.
It is crucial to maintain a safe distance from the deer. They are wild animals and can become aggressive, especially during the rutting season. Never feed them.
Yes, birdwatchers often find success around Penn Pond and the wooded areas. Keep an eye out for various species, including waterfowl and woodland birds.
The Isabella Plantation is a beautiful ornamental woodland garden within Richmond Park, known for its stunning azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias, particularly vibrant in spring.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The Richmond View Point offers iconic skyline shots. For wildlife, focus on areas where deer are commonly seen, especially during golden hours. +1
Early morning sunrise and late afternoon sunset provide the most beautiful light, creating a golden glow over the park and its inhabitants. +1
Yes, photographing the deer is a popular activity. Remember to use a telephoto lens to maintain a safe distance and capture stunning shots without disturbing them.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's best to check with the park authorities if you plan professional shoots.
A versatile zoom lens is ideal for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few cafes within Richmond Park, such as the one near the visitor centre and the Roehampton Gate Cafe. However, options can be limited.
The charming town of Richmond offers a wide array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants along its high street and riverside, providing diverse culinary choices. +1
Picnicking is a popular activity in Richmond Park. There are many open spaces perfect for laying out a blanket and enjoying your own food.
Yes, many establishments in Richmond town cater to families. Look for pubs with beer gardens or cafes with more relaxed atmospheres.
The cafes typically offer standard fare like sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and light meals. They are convenient for a quick bite while exploring the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't extensive play facilities within the park, the sheer space allows children to run and explore. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the greenery, and consider bringing binoculars for better wildlife viewing. Always ensure children maintain a safe distance from the deer and are supervised at all times.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers
Consider exploring different sections of the park, such as the Isabella Plantation for its beautiful flora or the Richmond View Point for stunning city vistas. Early mornings are ideal for a tranquil experience, with fewer crowds and the best chances for wildlife sightings.
🚴♂️ Cyclists
Be aware that the park can get crowded with cyclists, especially on weekends. Always follow park rules, be considerate of other users, and ensure your bike is in good condition for the terrain you plan to tackle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Richmond Park on Two Wheels
Common routes include circuits around the park's perimeter, often incorporating challenging climbs like Sawyer's Hill. For those seeking a more off-road experience, the park offers gravel paths that wind through wooded areas and open grasslands. Remember to be mindful of other park users, especially pedestrians and horse riders, and adhere to any designated cycling paths or speed limits.
Cyclists often rave about the freedom and the stunning scenery that cycling through Richmond Park provides. It's a fantastic way to experience the park's natural beauty, from the open grasslands to the ancient trees, all while getting a good workout.
Family Adventures in Richmond Park
The main draw for families is undoubtedly the chance to see the wild deer. Entering near the Sheen Gate end can sometimes offer sightings of Fallow deer herds and the duck pond, which can be captivating for little ones. Remember to keep children close and supervise them at all times, especially when deer are present, to ensure everyone's safety.
Beyond deer spotting, families can enjoy picnics in the open fields, explore the Isabella Plantation (though it's more for gentle strolling than active play), or simply let children run free in the vast green spaces. The park's natural environment provides a refreshing change of pace from urban life.
Capturing the Magic: Photography in Richmond Park
For wildlife photography, the park's resident deer herds are the stars. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light (golden hour) and often the most active deer. Using a telephoto lens is crucial to maintain a safe distance and capture intimate moments without disturbing the animals.
Beyond the deer and skyline, the Isabella Plantation offers stunning floral displays for macro and nature photography, particularly in spring. The park's ancient trees and open grasslands also provide beautiful backdrops for landscape and portrait photography. Remember to be patient, respect the wildlife, and always check for any specific photography guidelines if you're planning a professional shoot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit