Richmond: History, Attractions and Ambiance

A royal riverside town

Richmond takes its name from Richmond Palace, built by Henry VII on the site of an earlier royal residence. Elizabeth I died there in 1603. Only the gatehouse and some outbuildings remain, near the elegant Richmond Green.

The view from Richmond Hill across the Thames meanders towards Twickenham has inspired artists such as J. M. W. Turner, and it was protected by an Act of Parliament in 1902. Richmond Park, with its red and fallow deer, starts at the top of the hill, and the riverside below has terraces, boat hire and Richmond Bridge, the oldest surviving bridge over the Thames in London.

What to see

• Richmond Hill and Terrace Gardens – the famous protected view.
• Richmond Park – deer, woodland and Pembroke Lodge.
• Richmond Green and the palace gatehouse – Tudor history in a peaceful setting.
• Richmond Theatre – a Frank Matcham theatre opened in 1899.

Eating and atmosphere

Richmond has riverside pubs, cafés on the Green and restaurants along Hill Rise. On sunny weekends the riverside is busy, and on Twickenham rugby days the town fills with fans.

A suggested day

Walk from Richmond Green to the riverside, then follow the river path up to Terrace Gardens and Richmond Hill. Continue into Richmond Park through Richmond Gate, have lunch at Pembroke Lodge, and return to town for the evening.

Getting there

Richmond station has the District line, London Overground and South Western Railway services to Waterloo. The A316 leads to the M3, and the A305 runs to Twickenham.

Getting there with Mason & Green

Heathrow is close, usually a short drive. Richmond Hill and the town centre have narrow roads and limited stopping, so we agree a pickup point. On rugby match days, we plan extra time for traffic.

See our Heathrow Airport transfers and private tours pages.

Frequently asked questions