The best walks and hikes around Richmond Park National Nature Reserve

Yes, the park is excellent for longer circular hikes. The most well-known is the Tamsin Trail, a perimeter path of about 7.35 miles (11.8 km) that offers a comprehensive tour of the park's varied landscapes. It's a great way to experience the entire park in one go.

While deer roam freely and can be seen throughout the park, they often gather in the open grasslands. To increase your chances, try exploring the quieter areas away from the main gates. Remember to keep a respectful distance of at least 50 metres, as they are wild animals.

Dogs are welcome in Richmond Park, but they must be kept under control at all times. There are specific areas and times of the year (especially during the deer birthing season from May to July) where dogs must be on a lead. Always check the official park notices for the latest regulations before you go.

Absolutely. The park has many gentle and relatively short paths perfect for a family outing. A great option is the Beverley Brook loop from Roehampton Gate — Richmond Park, an easy 3.7 km walk that follows the gentle flow of the brook along the park's southern edge.

Richmond Park is well-served by public transport. The nearest train and tube station is Richmond, from which you can take the 371 or 65 bus to the pedestrian gate at Petersham. Other nearby stations include Mortlake and Barnes. Several bus routes also stop near the various park gates.

The pedestrian gates for Richmond Park are open 24 hours a day, all year round, except during the deer culls in November and February. During these periods, the park is closed in the evenings. Vehicle gates have specific opening and closing times that change seasonally, so it's always best to check the official Royal Parks website for current times if you plan to drive.

Yes, the areas surrounding Richmond Park have many excellent pubs. The towns of Richmond, East Sheen, and Barnes border the park and offer a wide selection of traditional pubs and inns, perfect for relaxing after a long walk.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique feeling of being in the countryside while still in London, the stunning views from King Henry's Mound, and the incredible opportunities to see wildlife, especially the famous deer herds.

As a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, there are important rules to follow. The main one is to protect the wildlife and environment. This means no barbecues or fires, taking all litter home, and keeping a safe and respectful distance from the deer and other animals. Stick to the paths to protect the park's sensitive acid grasslands.

You can explore over 60 different hiking routes in and around Richmond Park on komoot. These range from short, accessible strolls to more challenging long-distance loops, with 49 classified as easy and 20 as moderate, ensuring there's a path for every ability level.

Yes, a popular option is to incorporate Pembroke Lodge into your walk. It's a beautiful Georgian mansion with a café that offers stunning panoramic views. You can plan a route like the Roehampton Gate Café – Lover's Walk loop from Mortlake which passes near several of the park's facilities.

The Isabella Plantation is a 40-acre woodland garden that is spectacular year-round, but it is most famous for its vibrant displays in the spring. Visit in late April and May to see the incredible collections of azaleas and rhododendrons in full bloom. It's a major highlight for many visitors.