Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures in Richmond
Royal parkland, river bends, and a leafy town on the Thames
Where deer graze beneath ancient oaks — and every walk ends by the water.
Richmond, London is a standout base for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. Set on a scenic loop of the Thames Path, it opens straight onto the meadows of Petersham, the panoramas of Richmond Hill, and the wild spaces of Richmond Park. From town you can follow riverside paths to Kew Gardens or Teddington Lock, circle the park on the Tamsin Trail, or link green corridors on the Capital Ring toward Wimbledon Common and beyond.
Why Walk Here
- Doorstep access to the Thames Path and Richmond Park.
- Classic viewpoints: Richmond Hill and King Henry’s Mound.
- Mix of riverside meadows, woodland, deer park, and garden landscapes.
- Car-free friendly: Tube, Overground, and national rail to central London.
- Vibrant town base with cafés, pubs, and independent stays.
Nearby Trails
- Thames Path: Richmond → Kew/Teddington – Riverside towpaths, bridges, and locks.
- Richmond Park Tamsin Trail (7 mi / 11 km) – Waymarked loop beneath ancient oaks and open grassland.
- Capital Ring (Richmond sections) – Green-corridor links toward Wimbledon Common and the Wandle.
- Petersham Meadows & Ham House Loop – Pastureland, 17th-century house, and quiet riverbanks.
- Old Deer Park to Isleworth – Flat waterside walking with historic views.
Outdoor Adventures and Activities
- Deer-spotting and wide, easy miles on the Tamsin Trail.
- Photography: sunset from Richmond Hill, misty meadows at Petersham.
- Paddleboarding/rowing sections on the Thames (check local operators and tides).
- Park-to-park runs linking Richmond Park, Bushy Park, and riverside paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start a self-guided walking holiday from Richmond?
Yes — Richmond sits on the Thames Path with quick links into Richmond Park and the Capital Ring, making it ideal for multi-day London green-corridor itineraries.
Where should walkers stay in Richmond?
Expect walker-friendly hotels, boutique inns, B&Bs, and self-catering apartments in town and along the river. Many are a short stroll from trailheads and transport.
Is Richmond good for a car-free walking break?
Definitely — Richmond is on the District line, London Overground, and South Western Railway. Most routes begin from the station or riverside.
What’s a great first-day or rest-day walk?
Try the Petersham Meadows & Ham House loop for an easy riverside circuit, or the Tamsin Trail in Richmond Park for a longer, waymarked introduction with deer views.
Any terrain or access notes for Richmond Park and the Thames?
Richmond Park is mostly firm tracks with gentle hills; dogs should be controlled around deer (extra care during fawning in spring and the rut in autumn). The Thames here is tidal — towpaths can be puddled or briefly covered near high tides.