The Clooper Guide To Richmond
Richmond, affectionately known as “London’s Happiest Borough,” is an idyllic green getaway conveniently nestled in the heart of Central London. Clooper has put together this handy area guide to help you decide if Richmond is the right place for you.
RICHMOND PARK
Arguably Richmonds most popular destination, Richmond Park began as far back as the 17th century. It served as a deer park and to this day holds up as an extremely valuable reserve for wildlife conservation. The park covers a whopping 2,500 acres, making it Londons biggest Royal Park. You may remember us mentioning Royal Parks in our previous Teddington Area Guide here.
Richmond Park is a top site for ancient trees, rare species and varying activities. Discover uncommon fungi, birds, beetles, bats and flora like wildflowers. You can even volunteer to protect them in your spare time. Other activities available include horse riding, golf across multiple courses, power kiting or off-road cycling. If it’s the scenery you’re after, head on up to King Henrys Mount. You can even catch a glimpse of St Johns Cathedral there!
A short car ride away is Richmond Green. Richmond Green was once home to pageants and jousting tournaments, now, it often hosts cricket matches. It’s lined with gorgeous homes laden with natural vines and lovely red tones. Smaller than Richmond Park, it’s perfect for a daily stroll or weekend activities with the family.
Fun Fact: Richmond has been home to many celebrities, particularly David Attenborough. Understandable when you consider what a natural treasure Richmond Park is, and how important it is to wildlife conservation!
HIGH STREET SHOPPING
Richmond high street has a reputation for its upmarket chain stores. Though it has more than its fair share of independent brands also! Take a leisurely stroll along the lanes and find yourself surrounded by restaurants, clothing stores, indie cafes, and of course: florists. Bramble and Moss come highly recommended for its high-quality bouquets, customer service and very reasonable pricing.
Another notable trait of the high street is its intriguing nooks and crannies. Veer off the path onto Brewers Lane to step into an atmosphere of a bygone age, lit by vintage lanterns. Else, mosey along the cobblestones of Church Walk and treat yourself to a pub lunch in the Angel and Crown. Finish off your journey by continuing along the walk to the St Mary Magdalene Church, a popular historical attraction.
THEATRE ATTRACTIONS
Richmond Theatre on the Green is an impressive 120-year-old venue. Its first-ever performance was way back in 1899 and it’s still going strong today! Much like the Brixton theatre, we spoke about in our Brixton guide It boasts scenic views, lovely architecture and a wide range of drama, dance, opera, musicals and family entertainment every year.
In addition to this historical theatre, Richmond also has an Odean and a Curzon cinema. There is also another popular theatre: The Orange Tree. The Orange Tree is another award-winning independent theatre. Its seating rings around the stage for what the venue owners call a ‘truly unique experience’. Richmond is certainly home to those who appreciate art and theatre. If that sounds like you, you’d be spoilt for choice here.
SPORTS
Richmond is very popular for its sporting clubs, activities and venues. It even has a website dedicated to the many sports it offers. Whether you’re passionate about rugby, horseriding, golf, trampolining or even Gaelic football: Richmond has a club for you.
Most notably however is the Richmond Green, mentioned earlier, as it frequently hosts cricket games and other sporting events. There is also a soccer league, outdoor basketball court, 26,000sq ft indoor sports centre and more. Not only this but there are also various picnic spots nearby. Drop off your little ones at their sports club and enjoy a lovely little picnic as you proudly look on!
SUPERB SCHOOLS
Another aspect that aids Richmonds popularity is its selection of first-class schools. Whether you’re looking for an all-girls school, all-boys school or a co-educational school, Richmond has something for you. Many families that move to Richmond find themselves staying long term for this reason particularly. Its schools, parks and sports venues make this an incredibly family-friendly place to live.
It is also incredibly easy to get further into London. Waterloo is only a thirty-minute train ride from Richmond station. This makes for an ideal location for families with a commuter parent. Or even families with a child (or children) that attend universities in other London boroughs. Richmond truly has something for everyone and with the spectacle of Richmond Park and the Thames on your doorstep, it’s easy to understand why this is such a popular London location.
Not quite what you were looking for? Check out our other area guides here.
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