Things to do in Richmond: Historic sites, parks, riverside pubs and local gems

Ham House and Gardens is an opulent riverside mansion where you can easily spend a few hours exploring, with grand red-brick architecture, beautiful gardens and historic rooms filled with impressive furniture, tapestries and artefacts.

The Room of Miniatures is well worth a look – who knew hair earrings were a thing – and The Duchess's bathroom was another favourite. The volunteers are a real highlight though, offering fascinating insights into the people and stories behind the house.

Once you've seen the interiors, make your way to the cafe beside the kitchen gardens for seasonal soups, cheese scones and a particularly delicious orange and poppy seed cake. You can also browse the second-hand bookshop, pick up a unique souvenir or choose a plant to take home.

If you're travelling to or from Twickenham, make the journey part of the experience and hop aboard the Hammerton's Ferry, which runs from March to October and crosses the river in seconds.

Best for: Historic interiors, quiet gardens and a slower afternoon. 
Good to know: The Hammerton’s Ferry costs £2 for adults. Check ahead for seasonal events and free guided tours at the house. 

One of London’s largest and most impressive historic houses, former residence of King Henry VIII, Hampton Court Palace makes for a rewarding day out.  A treasure trove of Tudor history and impressive architecture, you can easily spend a whole day exploring its rooms, gardens and grounds. We’re always on the lookout for the costumed characters wandering the palace, who bring its history to life as you explore.

But it's not just about the history. From famous jousting tournaments to the ever-popular food festival, Hampton Court Palace knows how to put on a show, with seasonal events taking place throughout the year. Look out for the annual Lindt Easter egg hunt and festive experiences such as Winter Palace, which transforms the palace into a winter wonderland.

The gardens are equally worth exploring, changing with the seasons. In summer, look out for rows of brightly coloured, beautifully scented roses, while autumn brings seasonal produce including pumpkins to the Kitchen Garden, which once supplied Henry VIII's impressive kitchens. When you've finished exploring, wander along the river and pick up an ice cream from the van parked up by the entrance in summer.

Best for: History lovers, families and garden enthusiasts.
Good to know: Wear comfortable shoes and allow at least half a day if you want to explore the palace, gardens and grounds without rushing. 

Richmond is home to plenty of grand villas, but Strawberry Hill House is one of its most unusual. A Gothic Revival villa with an intriguing collection of rooms and architectural details to explore.

One of its most unexpected features is Alexander Pope’s Grotto, a hidden enclave within the landscape built by the famous 18th-century poet on the banks of the river Thames.

Beyond the house itself, there's a lively programme of events taking place throughout the year, from open-air concerts to its annual flower festival.

Best for: Gothic architecture, curious details and unusual history.
Good to know: Guided tours run on the last Sunday of every month. Check the event programme before visiting if you’re interested in concerts or seasonal events. 

If rugby is your thing, there are few places in London quite like Twickenham. Home to English rugby, the Allianz Stadium makes an easy addition to a day exploring Twickenham, whether you’re here for a match or want to see what goes on behind the scenes.

For superfans, bag yourself a backstage pass with the World Rugby Museum and Allianz Stadium Tour. Led by a passionate rugby fan, the tour takes you into some of the stadium’s insider spots, revealing the stories and lesser-known details behind the stadium. Sit in the president’s seat, peek inside the Royal Box and take in the sheer scale of the stadium, which may look different today but has more than 100 years of history behind it.

Afterwards, explore the World Rugby Museum, one of the most impressive we’ve visited, with a huge collection of memorabilia and interactive exhibits. We particularly enjoyed stepping into the commentary box to try our hand at calling iconic matches, while the kicking simulation is a hit for big and small rugby fans alike – see if you can land all three conversions. On match days, the rugby takes over Twickenham, with fans filling the streets and local front gardens transforming into food stalls, complete with the smell of fresh doughnuts. 

Best for: Rugby fans, stadium tours and sporting history.
Good to know: Combined stadium tour and museum tickets, or museum only tickets are available. Opening hours and tour times may vary, so booking in advance is recommended. Stadium tours are not available on and around event days. The museum is open on match days.

We’ve had our fair share of days at Wimbledon, whether that’s arriving at the gates at sunrise to join the Queue or sitting courtside watching the final. Each summer, Wimbledon takes over southwest London for a fortnight of world-class tennis, strawberries and cream and that unmistakable Wimbledon atmosphere. Enter the ballot or turn up on the day and join the famous Queue for your chance to get a ticket.

To see another side of Wimbledon beyond tournament fortnight, join a behind-the-scenes tour of the grounds. Led by a Blue Badge Guide, you’ll get to explore parts of the Championships that aren’t usually open to the public and hear more about the history and traditions behind the tournament.

Best for: Tennis fans and anyone wanting to experience Wimbledon.
Good to know: The Championships take place each summer, while the museum and tours provide a way to experience Wimbledon outside tournament fortnight. If you miss out on tickets, still make time to explore the town itself, which gets a Wimbledon tennis makeover each summer.

When we need to escape the bustle of London, Richmond Park is one of the first places we head. With a 7.5-mile circular path running around the edge of the park, it’s a runner’s haven, albeit with a few testing hills, and hosts races throughout the year for medal chasers. If you prefer two wheels, bring your bike or hire one from Parkcycle by Roehampton Gate.

Along the way, keep an eye out for the resident wild red and fallow deer, who have roamed this royal park for centuries, alongside a whole host of wildlife living among the ancient woodland and rolling hills. We’re big fans of picnics, so with a blanket in tow, Isabella Plantation makes a lovely spot to stop, particularly for budding horticulturalists.

With the gates open 24/7 year-round for pedestrians, it’s one we find ourselves returning to through every season, from golden autumn leaves and lakeside relaxation in summer to spring blooms and crisp winter walks. Be sure to have your camera handy for some of the UK’s prettiest countryside scenes, especially the distant view of St Paul’s from Henry’s Mound. Afterwards, head to the nearby Butler’s Pantry at Pembroke Lodge for a cup of tea and slice of cake.

Best for: Active days outdoors, scenic walks and spotting wildlife without leaving London.
Good to know: The park gate is open 24/7 for pedestrians, but check access arrangements for Isabella Plantation and Parkcycle before visiting. 

Famous around the world for good reason, Kew Gardens is a botanical wonder that has been both conserving and celebrating horticulture for centuries. It’s a vast space with plenty to discover so give yourself time to wander through its gardens and collections.

Kew’s botanical exhibitions are always worth marking in your calendar – the Orchid Festival is a particular highlight in late winter, when wondrous botanical creations take over the Princess of Wales Conservatory. During the autumn and winter months, visitors can also embark on exciting seasonal trails, from a spooky Halloween at Kew to the famous Christmas at Kew light show.

You can also join the daily free guided tours for an introduction to the gardens, which are a useful way to get your bearings and ask the guide for tips on where to explore next.

Best for: Plants, photography and peaceful days outdoors.
Good to know: Seasonal events often sell out, so book well in advance. You’re welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy among the trees, and don’t skip the historic buildings dotted around the gardens, including Kew Palace and the Queen Charlotte’s Cottage. 

Swap the towpath for the river Thames with a paddleboarding session in Richmond. Paddle Richmond takes you out onto the water with an experienced instructor, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your skills. Sessions start with land-based tuition and a safety briefing before you head out onto the river.

We love that you can discover hidden corners of Richmond that you simply can’t reach on foot. Paddle past leafy riverbanks, houseboats and secluded islands, with routes taking in views towards Ham House and Richmond Hill. Depending on your route, you might even stop off at one of the riverside pubs for a drink before continuing your adventure.

Best for: Couples, birthdays, special occasions and unique days out.
Good to know: Sessions last around two hours and are planned around the tide. Suitable for ages 10–80+, with under-18s accompanied by a parent or guardian and under-14s required to book a private session. Experienced paddlers can hire equipment for their own trips. Photos are included; bring your phone in a waterproof wallet if you'd like to keep it with you. Kayaks are also available for anyone nervous about standing up on a paddleboard. 

Tucked away beside the river in Twickenham is the unassuming Orleans House Gallery, a free public space home to unique exhibitions and a charming cafe with outdoor dining in summer. It also makes a cosy pitstop if you’re journeying along the river from Richmond in winter.

From here, head into York Gardens, where one of our favourite hidden gems awaits: a fairytale-like fountain featuring nymphs tucked away in an unassuming corner of greenery. Just around the corner, you’ll find Twickenham’s riverside, lined with pubs, benches and a small beach area where younger children will love getting stuck in.

Continue along the river and you’ll spot a large, curved bridge – but where does it lead? Across the water lies Eel Pie Island, once a commune and now home to a community of artists. The island is closed to the public for most of the year, but twice a year its artists open their studios for a special weekend, offering a rare opportunity to step inside the creative spaces and discover the work inside.

Best for: Art lovers, hidden gems and riverside walks.
Good to know: Orleans House Gallery and York Gardens are free to visit. Eel Pie Island’s Open Weekend is usually held in mid-summer, but you can also arrange visits to individual studios directly at other times of year. 

Although Richmond Green may be smaller than its royal counterpart, it makes an easy starting point for exploring the town and happens to sit at the heart of several recognisable Ted Lasso filming locations.

Follow in Ted’s footsteps as you make your way from the front door of his flat on Paved Court to the instantly recognisable Prince’s Head pub, aka the Crown & Anchor. You won’t find everyone’s favourite landlady, Mae, behind the bar, but you will find Richmond F.C. scarves and plenty of Lasso-inspired memorabilia. The official Ted Lasso Store is just a few doors down, too.

Tick off the locations at your own pace, or join a Ted Lasso walking tour for fun stories about the area, the show and filming. And don’t leave without a photo on Ted’s favourite pondering bench, right beside the iconic red telephone boxes.

Best for: Ted Lasso fans and an easy walking tour of Richmond. 
Good to know: Most of the filming locations are free to see and can be visited independently, while guided tours offer more background on the show and its Richmond locations. 

Richmond’s charm extends beyond its quaint streets, boasting some of the prettiest pubs in London. Whether it’s a pitstop between exploring or the main social event, there are plenty to discover, but these are a few we return to time and again.

The White Cross, more commonly known as the pub that floods, is a staple of Richmond’s riverside pub scene. At high tide, don’t be surprised to find revellers wading through the water in their wellies, pint in hand. If you’re not dining in (the seasonal menu is certainly worth a look), take your pint outside and enjoy it overlooking the river. For sunset views, head up Richmond Hill and settle in at the Roebuck, perfectly placed for enjoying a drink alongside views of the rolling hills.

The White Swan in Twickenham is another spot at the mercy of the tide, with live music, weeknight deals and seasonal celebrations such as Burns Night. We’re big fans of the jetty-like outdoor seating, where you might spot wild swimmers or even the occasional paddleboarding dog. In Teddington, The Anglers is one we’d love to gatekeep (but we won’t), with plenty of outdoor seating, riverside deck chairs and ping pong tables for some friendly competition.

Elsewhere, The Crown in St Margarets is ideal after exploring Marble Hill House, while further south Wimbledon has plenty of options, including the Dog & Fox during the Championships and the Alexandra for its summer outdoor screens.

Best for: Riverside pints, live music and sunset drinks.
Good to know: Check the tide times online before visiting the White Cross or White Swan if you want to avoid the riverside areas flooding at high tide. The White Swan also displays the current tide times on a chalkboard outside the pub. 

There’s no shortage of cafes in Richmond for getting your coffee fix, whether you’re picking up a decent brew to-go or looking for somewhere to refuel after a wander.

Right on the riverbank, Tide Tables Cafe is built into the bridge, with tables overlooking the water. In summer, look out for its samba workshops, where everyone is invited to get involved, whatever their ability. Nearby, out on the water, you’ll also find the whimsical Peggy Jean, complete with frilled parasols and plush seating on the top deck. 

Hollyhock Cafe feels like something out of a fairytale, with its crooked, moss-covered roof peeking through the trees in Terrace Gardens. Cosy up with a warming bowl of soup in autumn or soak up the views from the veranda in summer.

Over in Kew, Fable is a great stop for matcha fans and brunch lovers, serving everything from full English breakfasts to American-style pancakes. It stays open late too, when you can swap coffee for cocktails and small plates.

For walkers, the Windmill Tearooms offer a welcome respite after exploring Wimbledon and Putney Commons. Open 364 days a year, it’s a reliable stop for tasty snacks and whippy ice cream on a sunny day. Be sure to step inside the Wimbledon Windmill, where volunteers share fun facts and demonstrations – we even had a go at grinding flour.

Best for: Coffee drinkers and hungry wanderers.
Good to know: Each London cafe offers something different, so choose based on your route – from riverside views and garden settings to a historic windmill. Opening hours vary between the cafes, particularly seasonally, so check ahead. 

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Richmond you’ll find the enchanting Petersham Nurseries. Wander through Petersham Meadow, often past its resident cows, before reaching the lush planting, bright blooms and string-light-lined courtyard.

A little flower-arranging shed sits among the plants, while one of the glasshouses is filled with botanical displays and a shop full of kitsch homeware and quirky decor – think intricate silverware, worn wooden-framed mirrors and beautiful crockery. We always struggle to leave empty-handed whether that's with something for the garden or home. At Christmas, the nurseries become particularly atmospheric, with Christmas trees and a warming fire.

The different spaces give you plenty of excuses to stay awhile, with a cafe, afternoon tea and restaurant offering something for every occasion. From a casual coffee and cake to a leisurely farm-to-table meal, it’s an easy place to spend the best part of an afternoon.

Best for: Garden lovers, leisurely lunches and a countryside feel.
Good to know: Booking ahead is recommended for the restaurant, particularly at weekends. Parking is limited in the area, so if you can, it’s best to use one of the town’s multi-storeys and walk over. 

Hiding in plain sight, Tower House feels like one of those places you only discover if you know where to look. Luxurious without being showy, the intimate setting feels almost like an Italian restaurant perched on a cliffside, with views across the Thames and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.

Start with a cocktail before settling into one of the cosy outdoor tables, where music plays and the evening takes on a relaxed pace. As darkness falls, watch the lanterns being lit around the restaurant – adding to the romantic atmosphere.

The menu is made for sharing and lingering, with the nduja chicken, grilled peppers and panzanella among our highlights. We loved the anticipation of waiting for each dish to arrive, while the desserts are well worth saving room for – don't skip the chocolate mousse.

It’s a particularly lovely choice for a date night, birthday or special celebration, whether you’re sitting outside overlooking the river or tucked beneath the cosy canopy.

Best for: Date nights, birthdays and special dinners.
Good to know: Book ahead if you want a balcony or outdoor table. The covered outdoor seating has heaters, while the balcony has bar tables that are perfect for enjoying a cocktail and doing a spot of people-watching. 

Richmond’s historic shopping lanes are some of its prettiest pedestrian streets, lined with independent shops, galleries, boutiques and places to eat. Start on Brewers Lane, which takes its name from local resident William Brewer, who lived in a cottage here in the 1500s, then wander down to Paved Court, another characterful cobbled lane filled with art and creative businesses.

A touch of Italy comes to Richmond with Daniela, specialising in luxury Italian menswear, from suede shoes to bespoke suits. Next door, Daniela Gelateria serves Italian gelato, with Stracciatella one of our favourite flavours. Kids will love the truffles and fun chocolate characters.

If you've got a wedding, race day or special occasion coming up, Titfertat Hats by Mary Spiteri Milliner specialises in handcrafted headwear and bespoke millinery. The personalised service is a standout, with hats carefully matched to both the outfit and the wearer's features for a truly tailored fit.

One Paved Court is an artist-run space offering everything from full-scale exhibitions to artists selling quirky London-inspired prints, T-shirts, stickers and keychains. We're particularly fond of the pigeon-on-a-postbox design – a lovely bit of London to take home with you.

Save room for lunch at Via Romana Deli. Known for its generously filled focaccia sandwiches, it's the perfect place for lunch. The Ottaviano is a particular favourite of ours, packed with fresh prosciutto and a creamy truffle spread.

Best for: Independent shopping, art, Italian fashion and discovering Richmond’s characterful lanes.
Good to know: Brewers Lane and Paved Court are just a short walk from one another. Start on Brewers Lane from the high street, then wander through the side streets towards the Green. Allow extra time if you want to browse the shops, stop for gelato or stay for lunch.

Richmond's independent shopping scene continues beyond its main lanes.

Perhaps one of the most photographed shopfronts in Richmond, Bramble & Moss is an independent florist and a haven for plant lovers. With guidance from the expert florists, create a vibrant bouquet of fresh seasonal blooms, or choose an intricate arrangement of dried flowers in delicate glass vases for a unique keepsake.

Just next door is The Little Shop on The Hill, a treasure trove of thoughtfully curated gifts, trinkets and homewares. Small in size but packed with character, it's the perfect place to find a gift with a little more personality.

For bookworms, a visit to The Open Book is a must. Behind its inviting facade, shelves are stacked high with titles from around the world spanning every genre. We love the playful touches throughout the shop, with each section accompanied by a themed object. Browse the music books beside a guitar or spot a vintage flour tin above the cookery titles.

Best for: Independent shopping, thoughtful gifts and discovering charming local businesses.
Good to know: These shops are spread around Richmond rather than concentrated on one street, so they’re easy to combine with a wider wander around the town centre and Richmond Hill. 

One of our favourite markets in London, Duck Pond Market takes over the elegant Heron Square, where a striking fountain forms the centrepiece of this charming outdoor setting.

Each weekend, the bunting-lined square transforms into a bustling artisan market, with stalls showcasing everything from handcrafted jewellery and homewares to locally made produce and street food. It's an excellent place to meet independent makers and discover unique gifts.

We're particularly fond of the gyros, while the handmade flower-topped cupcakes are almost too pretty to eat. It's the sort of market where you can easily arrive for lunch and leave with a bag of finds.

Best for: Street food, handmade finds and local makers.
Good to know: Stallholders vary from week to week, so each visit offers something a little different. You can enter the market from either the town or the river, making it easy to add to a wider Richmond wander. 

Church Street in Twickenham deserves a place on your Richmond itinerary. This charming street, which connects the high street to the river Thames, is lined with locally owned shops alongside popular cafes, restaurants and bars.

Pick up a beautiful bouquet, houseplant or stylish pot from The Bloomery, easily spotted thanks to its pretty outdoor displays. Visit at Christmastime and you'll also be able to pick up a festive tree.

Cinephiles will love browsing Flicks Film Posters, which stocks an impressive range of prints from cult classics to films from Hollywood's Golden Age. For those with furry friends, The Pet Boutique is packed with toys, treats and accessories.

Swapping films for music, Eel Pie Records is an independent vinyl store where you'll find the latest LPs, music-related books and fun merchandise. The Brewery Market is more than just a spot to grab a tipple - this award-winning bottle shop offers a carefully curated selection of beers, wines and spirits.

Each year, the street hosts popular events including Twickenham 60s Day, A Taste of Twickenham and the High Tide Festival, bringing a lively atmosphere to this historic part of town.

Best for: Film fans, vinyl collectors and gift hunters.
Good to know: Visit around one of Church Street’s annual events to experience the area at its liveliest, or combine your shopping with a wander down to the river Thames. 

Tucked away beside the river Thames in Barnes, the London Wetland Centre is a hidden green gem that feels worlds away from the city. You’d never know this wildlife haven was here until you step through its tree-lined gates, where wetlands, lakes and leafy paths provide a home for an impressive variety of birds and animals.

We absolutely loved watching the otters at feeding time. They’re full of character, with plenty of playing and splashing around to keep you entertained. The pelicans are another highlight and surprisingly huge, so make time for the keeper talks to get more from your visit. Birdwatchers are also well catered for, with hides dotted around the wetlands where you can use the fixed binoculars and telescopes, or bring your own. There are even bird books in the hides to help you identify what you’ve spotted.

For families, there’s plenty beyond wildlife watching. The Pond Zone lets children try pond dipping, be sure to get stuck into the Mud Kitchen and kids will love the Adventure Playground with its zip lines and bouncing lily pads. In warmer months, the Splash Pad is another big hit, with fountains and tunnels to run through. Throughout the year, there are also fun workshops, seasonal takeovers and a gift shop for picking up a lovely souvenir.

Best for: Wildlife lovers, budding birdwatchers and families looking for a peaceful day outdoors.
Good to know: Keeper talks run twice a day, usually once in the morning and once in the afternoon, so plan your visit around the timetable. Most routes are paved, but sensible footwear is still recommended, particularly after wet weather. Little ones who love puddles may want wellies. Regular buses serve the area, including the Wetland Centre stop on the 378 between Putney and Mortlake, which drops you right outside the front door.

Swap towering landmarks for idyllic riverbank scenes on a boat trip along the river Thames in Richmond. From the water, Richmond's riverside landscape takes on a completely different character, with plenty of picturesque views along the way.

Soak up the scenery from the comfort of your seat aboard a Turk Launches vessel. With a fleet that's just as eye-catching as the views, we think enjoying a tipple on the outside deck while watching the riverbanks drift past is a must.

Best for: Sunny afternoons, slow sightseeing and riverside views.
Good to know: Opt for an outside seat when the weather allows and check the route in advance if you want to travel onwards to Westminster. 

Help your little ones connect with nature at Petersham Gate Playground, a thoughtfully designed play area surrounded by the greenery of Richmond Park.

You'll find all the classic playground favourites, including slides, balance beams, climbing structures, tree tunnels and toddler-friendly swings, alongside hammocks where grown-ups can relax while keeping an eye on the action.

Designed with the park's natural environment in mind, the playground is surrounded by wildlife-friendly planting, native hedgerows, mature trees and colourful flowers. Children can interact with nature-inspired sculptures, spot wildlife around the bird boxes and bug hotel, and play to the soundtrack of birdsong and buzzing pollinators.

Pack a picnic and make use of the nearby tables and seating areas, perfect for a family break between adventures.

Best for: Nature-inspired play for children aged up to 12 and family outings in Richmond Park.
Good to know: Baby-changing facilities are available, alongside public and accessible toilets, cycle racks and drinking water points. 

Moored on the banks of the Thames in Richmond for part of the year, the Puppet Theatre Barge is one of London's most unique cultural attractions. Housed aboard a converted barge, this floating theatre brings puppetry and storytelling to life in a wonderfully intimate setting.

There's plenty of whimsy to discover, from the vessel's bright red and yellow exterior to its charming productions. The programme features both beloved classics, such as The Ugly Duckling, and inventive original stories, all brought to life through beautifully crafted puppets, music and colourful staging.

The cosy auditorium and imaginative performances make it a particularly enchanting experience for younger children, though adults will find plenty to enjoy too.

Best for: First theatre trips, storytelling and imaginative play.
Good to know: Check the performance programme and recommended ages before booking. The barge also moves between Richmond and Little Venice depending on the season. 

For fitness and wellness fans, The Lensbury in Teddington is a riverside resort that's well worth making your base during a Richmond getaway.

If you're keen to stay active, The Lensbury's more than 100 years of sporting heritage means you'll have access to excellent facilities, wellness treatments and sports and activities throughout your stay.

Spend time on the water, from leisurely motorboat trips to kayaking sessions. On land, try your hand at padel or pickleball, two fast-paced sports that are perfect for a friendly competition with family and friends.

The rooms cater to all kinds of travellers, with classic styling and all the amenities you'd need, whether you're visiting on business, planning a family escape or simply looking for a relaxing break by the river.

Best for: Active breaks, sports and time by the river.
Good to know: Many of the sports and wellness facilities are also available to members, so book activities and treatments in advance to avoid disappointment. 

A traditional bakery for more than 150 years, The Original Maids of Honour offers boutique accommodation above its shop, alongside a tea room and restaurant. Established in 1837, this historic spot captures a moment in time, with its former family quarters now offering a cosy base for exploring Richmond and Kew Gardens, just across the road.

Rather than modernising away its history, the property embraces it, offering a stay that feels wonderfully homely. There’s something rather lovely about staying somewhere with such a strong connection to the local area, where the history is part of the experience rather than simply something to read about.

Of course, the dainty tarts the bakery is famous for are not to be missed. Said to have been a favourite of Henry VIII, the recipe was reportedly kept under lock and key beneath Richmond Palace. Today, you can enjoy the pastries warm from the oven alongside sweet and savoury treats, or book afternoon tea in the adjoining tea room and restaurant.

Best for: Historic charm, slow weekends and a stay with character.
Good to know: The 300-year-old building has steep staircases and no lift, so notify the hotel if you need step-free or ground-floor accommodation. 

This Hilton hotel in Brentford sits on the edge of the 200-acre Syon House estate, combining contemporary rooms with the feel of a country-house retreat.

The Hilton London Syon Park hotel has all the familiar comforts you’d expect from a Hilton, from stylish rooms and good facilities to its on-site restaurant, MOOD in the Park. What makes this one a little different is its setting: staying here also gives you access to discounted entry to Syon House and Gardens, making it easy to pair a hotel stay with a day exploring the estate.

It’s also a convenient base for exploring west London, while the leafy estate setting gives you a welcome change of pace from the city. If you want the ease of a full-service hotel without giving up that countryside feel, this is a good option.

Best for: A country-house feel, hotel comforts and exploring west London.
Good to know: Ask about discounted access to Syon House and Gardens when booking, and check the estate’s opening arrangements before planning your visit. 

Steeped in history and perched high above the Thames, The Petersham Hotel pairs timeless elegance with some of the most spectacular views in west London. Start your day with breakfast overlooking the river, watching rowers, walkers and wildlife drift through the picturesque landscape below.

Thanks to its coveted hilltop location, many of the hotel's rooms enjoy sweeping views across the Thames, Petersham Meadows and Richmond beyond. Floor to ceiling windows make the most of the scenery, creating a peaceful retreat just moments from the bustle of the town centre.

If you're celebrating, the Penthouse Suite is the one to look at, where a private balcony offers front-row views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're sipping a coffee on a crisp morning or enjoying a cocktail in the summer sunshine, it's an idyllic spot to unwind.

No stay is complete without a meal at the renowned Petersham Restaurant. It's a wonderful choice for a leisurely Sunday lunch, while the festive afternoon tea is a seasonal highlight.

Best for: Luxury, celebrations and uninterrupted views.
Good to know: Request a river-facing room when booking for the best views, and reserve a table at the restaurant in advance, particularly at weekends and during the festive season.