This historic market town in North Yorkshire has a Norman castle, Georgian architecture, and a large cobbled marketplace dating back to medieval times.
Richmond, a Thames-side town in southwest London, lies 8.2 miles from the city center. Walk past Georgian townhouses on Hill Street, spot deer grazing in Richmond Park's meadows, or watch rowers glide past The White Cross pub. The Thames Path stretches along both riverbanks, leading walkers through one of London's greenest neighborhoods.
Getting to Richmond
Take the District Line tube or overland train from London Waterloo - both journeys last about 20 minutes. Richmond station marks the western end of the District Line and links to both central London and nearby areas. Regular buses connect Richmond to Twickenham, Kew, and Kingston.
Richmond Park's Wildlife
Red and fallow deer move freely across Richmond Park's 2,500 acres of oak forests and meadows. King Charles I established the park in 1634, and today its ancient trees support colonies of rare stag beetles and nesting birds. The oldest oaks date back over 750 years. Enter through Richmond Gate from the town center, but prepare for a steep 10-minute climb uphill.
Along the Thames
The River Thames bends around Richmond's riverside paths and gardens. From May to September, rent kayaks and rowboats near Richmond Bridge to paddle on the water. Walk east on the Thames Path to reach Kew Gardens, or head west toward Twickenham. The White Cross pub sits right on the water - during very high tides, customers reach the entrance via a raised walkway.
Cultural Venues
Frank Matcham designed Richmond Theatre, a red-brick Victorian building with ceiling paintings and gold leaf decorations inside. The theater hosts touring shows throughout the year. Watch new releases at the seven-screen Odeon, or catch independent and foreign films at the Curzon on Water Lane.
Shopping and Local Food
Browse independent shops and major retailers along George Street. Every Saturday and Sunday, local food producers sell their goods at the Duckpond Market in Heron Square. Find more than 40 restaurants, cafes, and pubs around the Green and along the riverside, from traditional British taverns to modern European bistros.
