Richmond Park & Thames Path

Royal deer parks, riverside pubs, and historic vistas

Route Overview

Richmond Park is the largest of London's Royal Parks, famous for its herds of free-roaming Red and Fallow deer. This walk starts from Richmond Station, goes down to the beautiful Thames riverbanks, and leads up to Richmond Hill to view the landscape immortalized by painter J.M.W. Turner. You then enter Richmond Park, walk past Pembroke Lodge, cross through the botanical Isabella Plantation (especially beautiful in late spring), and return via the scenic woodlands.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take the District Line westbound directly from Victoria Station to Richmond Station, or take South Western Railway from Waterloo/Clapham Junction. (Station: Richmond Station (District Line / South Western Railway), duration: 30 - 40 mins (via District Line from Victoria)).

By Bus: Take TfL Bus 170 from Victoria to Clapham Junction, then connect with Bus 337 or 65 directly to Richmond Park gates. (55 - 70 mins from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Roehampton Gate Car Park, Richmond Park (SW15 5JR). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 35 - 50 mins from London Victoria (8.5 miles via Chelsea Embankment, Wandsworth Bridge & A3 South). From London Victoria, head south onto Chelsea Embankment, cross Wandsworth Bridge onto the A217, take the A3 southbound, and exit onto Roehampton Lane (A306) to Roehampton Gate.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Richmond Park & Thames Path trail:

• ☕ Pembroke Lodge Tea Rooms: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ The Lass o' Richmond Hill: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Richmond Park & Thames Path from London?

Take the District Line westbound directly from Victoria Station to Richmond Station, or take South Western Railway from Waterloo/Clapham Junction. (Station: Richmond Station (District Line / South Western Railway), duration: 30 - 40 mins (via District Line from Victoria)).

Where is the closest car park for Richmond Park & Thames Path?

Nearest car park is Roehampton Gate Car Park, Richmond Park (SW15 5JR). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 35 - 50 mins from London Victoria (8.5 miles via Chelsea Embankment, Wandsworth Bridge & A3 South). From London Victoria, head south onto Chelsea Embankment, cross Wandsworth Bridge onto the A217, take the A3 southbound, and exit onto Roehampton Lane (A306) to Roehampton Gate.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Richmond Park & Thames Path covers 12 km (7.5 miles) with an estimated duration of 3 hours, graded as Moderate. Starts at Richmond Station and finishes at Richmond Station.