Richmond Park, London – Royal Park Walks and Open Heathland

Deer, Grassland, and Wide Paths on the Edge of the Thames

Richmond Park is one of London’s most distinctive places for self-guided travel, shaped by walking routes, open landscapes, and historic green space on the south-west edge of the city. Broad paths circle grassland and woodland, linking Richmond, Ham, and Kingston with the Thames Path and neighbouring riverside routes, allowing walkers to move gradually between parkland, river, and village streets rather than treating the park as a single stop.

The landscape feels unexpectedly expansive. Ancient oak trees stand across rolling heath and meadow, long sightlines stretch toward the Thames Valley, and herds of red and fallow deer roam freely across open ground. Wide carriage drives and traffic-free tracks create easy, level walking suited to longer loops as well as shorter everyday strolls.

Despite its proximity to central London, Richmond Park feels calm and spacious. Entering through one of the gates quickly leaves the city behind, with quiet woodland, ponds, and open skies creating a strong sense of separation from the surrounding streets. Exploring on foot reveals how closely the park connects with the river, nearby neighbourhoods, and the wider network of London walking routes.

About Richmond Park

Richmond Park is the largest of London’s Royal Parks, covering more than 2,500 acres of protected parkland. Originally enclosed in the 17th century as a deer park for Charles I, it has retained much of its historic character, with ancient trees, rough grassland, and long-established habitats supporting a wide range of wildlife.

Today, the park functions as both a nature reserve and an everyday public landscape, balancing conservation with open access. Its scale and setting make it one of the few places in London where extended walking feels closer to the countryside than the city.

Where to Walk

Tamsin Trail (Park Circuit)

‍‍A level 7-mile loop around the park’s perimeter, linking woodland, grassland, and wide views across the heath.

Isabella Plantation & Woodland Paths

‍‍Quieter garden and woodland routes with seasonal colour and sheltered walking.

Richmond Gate to Pembroke Lodge

‍‍A gentle climb to one of the park’s highest viewpoints overlooking the Thames Valley.

Ham & Petersham Riverside Links

‍‍Paths connecting the park directly with the Thames Path and nearby riverside walking.

Kingston & Richmond Gate Approaches

‍‍Easy routes linking the park with surrounding neighbourhoods and transport hubs.

Highlights

• London’s largest Royal Park
• Free-roaming red and fallow deer
• Wide, traffic-free walking paths
• Ancient trees and protected grassland
• Views from King Henry’s Mound toward St Paul’s Cathedral
• Direct links to the Thames Path and riverside routes
• Easy rail and Underground access