Ham Lands
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Ham Lands London

4.7
·258 reviews·Richmond, United Kingdom

Vast parkland and historic estate offering peaceful riverside walks, birdwatching, and dog-friendly meadows.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wisteria blooms, ideal for photos

CrowdLow
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Ham Lands

Ham Lands London

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wisteria blooms, ideal for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vast parkland and historic estate offering peaceful riverside walks, birdwatching, and dog-friendly meadows.

4.7
(258 reviews)

"A really nice and fascinating place to run, hike, etc. Beautiful scenery, benches, and places to sit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Availability

A sizable parking lot is available at the upper end of Ham Street, with space for boat trailers.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Lots of space for dogs to run off-leash in the meadows, making it a great spot for dog walkers.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ham House Gardens

Ham House Gardens

Adjacent to Ham Lands

Stunning historic gardens, often featuring wisteria, perfect for a picturesque stroll and photography.

Thames Riverside Walk

Thames Riverside Walk

Along the River Thames

A peaceful walk with lovely views of Eel Pie Island and Mable Hill House, ideal for birdwatching.

Ham Lands Meadows

Ham Lands Meadows

Ham Lands Nature Reserve

Expansive, open meadows offering space for dogs to roam off-leash and a haven for migratory birds.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Ham Lands offers vast parkland perfect for walks, birdwatching, and dog-friendly adventures. Explore meadows and riverside paths with beautiful views. Check tide tables for riverside walks to avoid detours.

Discover Ham House

Adjacent to the lands, Ham House is a historic National Trust property. Consider the entry fee for a deeper dive into its gardens and interiors, a popular spot for photography walks.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wisteria blooms, ideal for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage, birdwatching
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family activities at Ham House
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

An English garden cafe 💜✨ 📍Ham House, Ham St, Ham, Richmond TW10 7RS Prettiest cafes Things to do in London Beautiful destinations Wisteria in London Best UK cafes Best National Trust @National Trust
@julestaylorinlondon
107.4K likes • 765.1K views

🚗 Parking Availability

A sizable parking lot is available at the upper end of Ham Street, with space for boat trailers. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Lots of space for dogs to run off-leash in the meadows, making it a great spot for dog walkers. Reddit

Always love exploring new places in London 🕯️🥀 📍Ham house and garden, Richmond #london #hamhouse #richmond #londonlife #londonthingstodo #fyp
@patrisia.hubchuk
4K likes • 43.3K views
I am running a couple of workshops on the first weekend in November, at the Ham Lands Nature Reserve near Teddington Lock, West London, for Maria of GreenWisePeople. So many people will tell you that making fire by friction is one of the most rewarding things they have learnt to do. It is not about pure physical strength...there is an art and a science to it and it’s also about preparation, precis...
chriswholeland
8 likes • 469 views

📸 Photography Walks

Consider joining organized photography walks at Ham House for unique perspectives. TikTok

🐦 Birdwatching Hotspot

Excellent for birdwatching, especially for migratory birds pausing in the meadows and along the river. Reddit

With just one month left of our winter show, we’re excited to launch our Artist Video Series! ‘Meadow Community, Ham Lands’ by Laurence Hill. Discover how Laurence crafted his stunning large-scale print using 112 wildflower species collected between May–September 2023, including one that’s extremely rare to London… Watch the video to dive into his process and botanical journey. Laurence Hill @...
orleanshousegallery
0 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Availability

A sizable parking lot is available at the upper end of Ham Street, with space for boat trailers. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Lots of space for dogs to run off-leash in the meadows, making it a great spot for dog walkers. Reddit

📸 Photography Walks

Consider joining organized photography walks at Ham House for unique perspectives. TikTok

🐦 Birdwatching Hotspot

Excellent for birdwatching, especially for migratory birds pausing in the meadows and along the river. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Path

Enjoy a picturesque walk along the Thames, but check tide tables to avoid detours at high tide. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(258 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ham Lands for its expansive, dog-friendly parkland and peaceful riverside walks, offering beautiful scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities. While the adjacent Ham House has an entry fee, the natural beauty of the lands provides a free and enjoyable experience for nature lovers and families.

"Ham is behind a vast park. A really nice and fascinating place to run, hike, etc. Beautiful scenery, benches, and places to sit. This area is excellent for birdwatching because migratory birds pause here. The upper end of Ham Street has a sizable parking lot and room for boat trailers. The broad meadows of Ham Lands and Ham Palace are the first places you'll pass along the Thames towpath walk from Teddington Locks to Petersham. Broad, largely shaded, and offering lovely views of Eel Pie Island, the Thames Northern Bank, and, most notably, a panorama of Mable Hill House, which revels in its Georgian precision."

Babji Vundavilli

"If you want a peaceful walk along the river, through some fields then this is the place. It’s full of wildlife and great the watch the horse riders too"

L A

"Great parkland behind Ham. Really pleasant and interesting area to walk the dogs etc. You can also cut through to Teddington Lock through the park. Definitely recommended"

Samuel Walker

What People Like

Spacious dog-friendly meadows
Peaceful riverside walks
Excellent birdwatching

What People Dislike

Potential detours at high tide

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ham Lands is accessible by car, with a sizable parking lot at the top of Ham Street. It's also reachable via public transport, with nearby train stations in Richmond and Teddington. You can also enjoy a lovely riverside walk from Teddington Lock. Reddit

Yes, there is a large parking lot at the upper end of Ham Street, which also accommodates boat trailers. Reddit

Cycling is a great way to explore Ham Lands and the surrounding areas. The Thames Path offers scenic cycling routes. Instagram

Walking is ideal for exploring the meadows and riverside paths. Many visitors enjoy leisurely strolls with their dogs or for birdwatching. Reddit

While direct bus routes might be limited, you can reach nearby areas like Richmond or Teddington by train and then walk or take a short taxi ride to Ham Lands. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ham Lands itself is a nature reserve and parkland, generally free to access for walking and enjoying nature. However, Ham House, located nearby, is a National Trust property with an entry fee. TikTok

As a natural area, Ham Lands is typically accessible from dawn till dusk. Ham House has specific opening hours, which are best checked on the National Trust website. TikTok

Many visitors find Ham House worth the fee for its historic interiors and beautiful gardens, especially if you're interested in photography or history. TikTok

Yes, it's recommended to book tickets for Ham House online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your entry. TikTok

Ham House often offers guided tours, and sometimes photography walks are organized in the grounds. Check the National Trust website for current offerings. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and dog walking. The riverside path offers scenic views, and the meadows are great for relaxation. Reddit

Absolutely! Ham Lands is a known spot for migratory birds, making it excellent for birdwatching throughout the year. Reddit

Yes, Ham Lands is very dog-friendly, with plenty of space for dogs to run off-leash in the meadows. Reddit

Restrooms and cafes are typically available at Ham House. For Ham Lands itself, facilities might be more limited, so it's advisable to come prepared. TikTok

The riverside path with views of Eel Pie Island and Mable Hill House, as well as the historic gardens of Ham House, are popular for photography. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ham House has a cafe offering refreshments and light meals, which is a popular spot for visitors. TikTok

Yes, Ham Lands is a perfect spot for a picnic. There are benches along the riverside and plenty of open space in the meadows. Reddit

The cafe at Ham House typically serves a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and light snacks. TikTok

The nearby areas of Richmond and Teddington offer a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants if you're looking for more extensive dining options. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics in the parkland areas of Ham Lands. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape and nature photography. Spring is ideal for capturing wisteria in bloom at Ham House. TikTok

Yes, photography walks and workshops are sometimes organized at Ham House, offering unique opportunities to capture the grounds. TikTok

Nature photography, landscape shots of the meadows and river, and architectural photography of Ham House are very popular. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in National Trust properties and nature reserves for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check specific regulations. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is good for landscapes and details. A telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the meadows. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ham Lands and the adjacent Ham House offer a great day out for families. The open meadows provide ample space for children to run and play freely, making it a dog-friendly paradise for those with pets. Reddit Ham House itself provides a historical element, with its gardens offering a visually engaging experience for younger visitors. TikTok

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings, as there are plenty of spots along the river or in the meadows. Reddit While Ham House has an entry fee, the surrounding parkland is free to explore, offering a budget-friendly option for a fun-filled family day. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

For solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape, Ham Lands is ideal. The riverside walk from Teddington Lock to Richmond offers a beautiful and tranquil journey, perfect for contemplation and enjoying nature. Reddit The area is known for its quiet atmosphere and scenic vistas, making it a refreshing break from the city bustle. Reddit

Birdwatching is a popular solo activity here, with the chance to spot migratory birds. Reddit If you're interested in history, a visit to Ham House can add another layer to your exploration, offering insights into the past. TikTok

🐶 Dog Owners

Ham Lands is a dream destination for dog owners. The vast meadows offer extensive off-leash areas, allowing your canine companions to roam and play freely. Reddit The riverside paths provide scenic routes for long walks, ensuring both you and your dog get plenty of exercise and fresh air. Reddit

Remember to bring water and waste bags for your dog. While the parkland is generally dog-friendly, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Ham House and Gardens

Ham House, a National Trust property, offers a glimpse into 17th-century aristocratic life. Its opulent interiors and meticulously maintained gardens are a major draw for visitors. The gardens are particularly famous for their seasonal blooms, with wisteria often gracing the walls in spring, making it a prime spot for photographers. TikTok The estate provides a stark contrast to the wilder nature of Ham Lands, offering a more structured and historical experience.

Visitors can explore the grand rooms of the house, imagining the lives of its former inhabitants. The surrounding gardens offer various themed areas, from formal parterres to more informal woodland walks. It's a place where history and horticulture intertwine, providing a rich experience for those interested in heritage and landscape design. TikTok

While Ham House has an entry fee, many find it a worthwhile investment for the historical insights and the sheer beauty of the estate. It's often recommended to check the National Trust website for opening times, special events, and to book tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. TikTok

Nature and Wildlife in Ham Lands

Ham Lands Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife, particularly renowned for its role as a stopover for migratory birds. The expansive meadows and the Thames riverside provide diverse habitats that attract a variety of avian species, making it a prime location for birdwatching enthusiasts. Reddit The area is also popular for its scenic walking trails, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

The parkland is characterized by broad, open meadows and the picturesque Thames towpath. This stretch of the river is known for its lovely views, including Eel Pie Island and Mable Hill House. The natural beauty and tranquility make it an ideal spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and simply enjoying the outdoors. Reddit The freedom of the open spaces also makes it a fantastic destination for dog owners, as dogs can often be let off their leads here. Reddit

For those interested in conservation and local ecology, the 'Meadow Community, Ham Lands' project, highlighted by Orleans House Gallery, showcases the biodiversity of the area, including rare wildflower species. Instagram This underscores the ecological importance of Ham Lands and the efforts to preserve its natural character.

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