Richmond Park

Richmond Park is London's largest Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve, spreading over 5,000 acres of ancient woods, rolling hills and grasslands. Historic herds of red and fallow deer, numbering around 600 strong, have roamed here since 1637. The Isabella Plantation showcases bright azaleas, while King Henry's Mound offers distant views to St Paul's Cathedral. The Tamsin Trail runs just over 7 miles around the perimeter, popular with joggers and hikers. Pembroke Lodge, a Georgian mansion, has tea rooms and gardens overlooking the Thames Valley. The park's wildlife includes kestrels, stag beetles, bats and moths; ancient anthills date back 150 years and one oak tree is estimated to be 750 years old. You can hire bikes or simply wander this landscape shaped by nature for over 700 years.