Richmond Park
The stunning environment of Richmond Park stretches for almost 1000 hectares. It is one of a total of eight royal parks positioned around London and with its royal connections dating back almost 700 years it is believed to be the oldest. In 1625 it was King Edward I that created the first walled garden for the deer, which considering its age remains mostly intact to this day. The park is home to almost 700 wild deer, that all roam free and can been seen regularly by visitors that either visit or travel through the park every day. Originally created as a deer hunting park it is now an area of conservation and special scientific interest.
Park Attractions
The deer in the park are a mixture of Red and Roe Deer – they help to maintain the special grasslands in the park whilst they roam and graze each day. Care should be taken during the rutting season (September – November) and visitors should always keep a respectful distance from these amazing animals, keeping dogs on the leash at all times.
A visit to the Isabella Plantation within the park takes you into a stunning woodland escape which contains a host of plant life that provides colour and interest all year round. The woodlands are filled with lakes and ponds that are a haven for birds and all kinds of wildlife and from within the woodland it is hard to believe that you are in such a large and exciting city like London.
Pembroke Lodge is a stately Georgian mansion set within its own landscaped grounds that is filled with ancient trees and stunning evergreen magnolias. The Lodge is the perfect spot to sample a relaxed lunch and take in the beauty of your surroundings.
Take a walk to the top of King Henry’s mound, originally constructed to allow the King an uninterrupted view across the park prior to the hunt. Now legally protected, the view from the top lets you see across the city through to St Pauls Cathedral.
Richmond Park also houses its own 18 hole golf course complete with a driving range which operates on a ‘pay and place’ policy. With two children’s play areas the whole family can appreciate the facilities that the park has to offer.
Sporting Activities
With a variety of sporting options available in the park it attracts people from all over the area. A portion of the park, just north of Roehampton Gate is set out to accommodate three full size rugby pitches, complete with changing rooms and a clubhouse. Horse riding is available across the park from several local riding stables, and there are plenty of bridle paths to follow. The park is also hugely popular with cyclists with trails to suit all ages and abilities, a range of cycles can be hired in the park if you do not have your own. One of the newest sports available at the park is Power Kiting. Training is provided by qualified instructors and is carried out throughout the year.
