About Richmond
Lying to the south west of London, on a bend of the river Thames, Richmond is a vibrant town centre in a gloriously green setting. It’s the only London borough which the river Thames flows through providing a stunning setting for its riverside bars, pubs and restaurants and bustling high street.
Richmond is the gateway to local highlights like Kew Gardens, Hampton Court Palace and Richmond Park, but it’s also wonderful place to explore in its own right. It is steeped in history, with clues to its heritage and culture around every corner, and boasts a wealth of beautiful outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Easily accessible by public transport and by car, Richmond’s main shopping streets host a mix of quality, big name brands – but explore further and you’ll discover secret lanes and alleyways crammed full of unique independent jewellers, delicatessens, bookshops and boutiques.
All that shopping making you hungry? Then pause for coffee or an ice-cream, order brunch onboard a floating restaurant, or grab some sushi to eat on a sunny bench. As the evening draws in, settle down with a pint in a proper English pub, or meet friends for fine dining with a view.
Richmond is a place to linger, so why not stay a while? Head up the hill, past Turner’s iconic view, for elegant hotels and a luxurious night’s sleep. The next day, clear the cobwebs with a stroll in Richmond Park, a wander through pretty Petersham meadows, and coffee on the riverside.
Richmond Park’s ancient woods, rolling hills and wide-open grasslands are bursting with life – from historic herds of deer to birds, invertebrates, fungi and wildflowers. It’s no wonder that the park is London’s largest Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve.
Want to know more? Check out Richmond’s Shopping, Food and Drink and Accommodation options or see What’s On.
Back to Visitor Info