Embark on a journey where nature’s wonders seamlessly blend with rich cultural heritage, as the walk along the Thames Path from Richmond to Kew unfolds a tapestry of picturesque scenes and hidden gems. From the regal deer of Richmond to the tropical allure of Kew, this walk is a testament to the timeless beauty and diverse experiences that the heart of England has to offer, making it an ideal choice for a perfect day out.
Last Updated: October 2023
Beginning amidst the serene beauty of Royal Richmond Park, famous for its majestic deer and sprawling meadows, this tranquil promenade leads along the River Thames, revealing ever-changing landscapes and historic vistas. The path culminates at the Royal Botanic Kew Gardens, a verdant oasis where the iconic Palm House and exotic blooms await, showcasing an extraordinary array of tropical plants and architectural marvels. This delightful journey concludes in the quintessential charm of a traditional English pub in Kew, offering a perfect retreat to reflect on the day’s discoveries.
Are you in? Then, follow me.
Logistics for the Thames Path from Richmond to Kew Walk
- Distance: 8.6 miles (13.84 miles)
- Total Ascent: 551 ft (168 m)
- Highest Point: 187 ft (57 m)
- Lowest Point: -6.5 ft (2 m)
- Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy/ Intermediate due to the distance
How to get there:
- District Line, Overground or South Western Railway trains to Richmond Station.
- The station is also well-served by buses.
- From there you can walk to Richmond Park (20 minutes) or you can take bus 371 to Cambrian Gate ( 10 minutes)
For the Return
- District Line or Overground Train from Kew Station
- Bus 110 towards Richmond (Stop H) or Chiswick (Stop N) at Kew Station
- Bus 65 towards Hammersmith (Stop D)or towards Brentford (Stop R) at Kew Garden/Victoria Gate
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. The terrain is flat and paved on the Thames Path however, Richmond Park can get muddy so make sure you wear waterproof footwear or bring a pair of gaiters with you.
- A backpack with water, snacks and a packed lunch.
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if the sun is out as the path is exposed
- Rain gear in case rain is forecasted for the same reason as above
Additional Information:
- There are public toilets in Richmond Park located by the park’s main entrance, Richmond Gate.
- There are public toilets at the start of the Thames Path in Richmond by the Eileen’s at Buccleuch Gardens Cafe
- There are no other public toilets available during the walk
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
- Not all the footpaths in Richmond Park are accessible to wheelchair and pushchair users
- The Thames Path is accessible to pushchair and wheelchair users
Where to Eat
- The Greyhound, Kew
Highlights of the Thames Path Richmond to Kew Walk
- Richmond Park
- Deer
- White Lodge
- Pen Pounds
- River Thames
- Twickenham Bridge
- Richmond Lock
- Thisleworth Marine
- Old Deer Park
- Syon House
- Kew Gardens
Thames Path From Richmond to Kew Walk
Richmond
Our journey commences in the historic town of Richmond, nestled in the southwest of London. This charming town owes its origins to Henry VII who, in the sixteenth century, chose this idyllic location to establish his royal abode, the Richmond Palace. He named it after Richmond in Yorkshire, a nod to his northern roots. This palace swiftly became the favourite residence of Queen Elizabeth I, who was particularly fond of hunting in the expansive nearby park, a leisure pursuit befitting the royalty of that era.
Setting off from Richmond Station, you’re presented with two options to reach this storied park. You can embark on a leisurely 20-minute walk or opt for a quick bus ride to Cambrian Gate. For those choosing to walk, there lies a choice between two distinct paths. The bustling Richmond Hill Road, lined with an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, offers a vibrant urban experience. Alternatively, a more serene route meanders through the residential Onslow Road, where one can admire the splendid Victorian houses set in tranquil environs. We opted for the latter, deliberately avoiding the crowded High Street, thus allowing ourselves the opportunity to appreciate the architectural elegance and peaceful ambience of these historic residences.
Richmond Park
Begin your exploration at Cambrian Gate to embark on a loop through the park, concluding your stroll at Richmond Gate, the park’s primary entrance. As you step into the park, set your course towards Bishop’s Pound. Circle around the pound and then veer towards Conduit Wood. Past the wood, you’ll find yourself in a serene clearing. From here, the exciting quest for glimpsing deer roaming freely in their natural habitat begins.
Our own journey in search of these graceful creatures led us across the park, finally spotting a herd on the far side of Sawyer’s Hill. When we reached the Saw Pit Plantation we were rewarded with the sight of the deer. Remember to respect their space and take pictures from a distance.
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After this delightful encounter, it’s time to return to the designated path. Traverse through Saw Pit Plantation to arrive at Queen Ride, a main route leading to the historic White Lodge. Constructed in 1730 as a hunting lodge for King George II, this Grade I listed edifice is now the prestigious home of the Royal Ballet Lower School.
Having admired the White Lodge, continue your walk towards the Upper and Lower Pen Pounds. In the summer, this area buzzes with picnickers, but a winter visit offers a more tranquil experience. The still waters here reflect the bare branches of the trees, creating a serene ambience ideal for a snack break.
To the Thames Path
Now, it’s time to turn around and walk to Richmond Gate. Meander through Queen Elizabeth’s Plantation, joining the main road that leads to the gate. Conveniently located by the entrance are the park’s public toilets. It is time to leave the park and head towards the Thames Path.
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We now find ourselves along the scenic banks of the River Thames, ready to continue our adventure on the Thames Path. Spanning an impressive 184 miles (296 km), this path traces the course of England’s largest river, offering an array of picturesque landscapes and historical sites along its route.
The Thames Path starts at the source of the River Thames in Kemble, Gloucestershire. It ends at the Thames Barriers in Woolwich, London.
Thames Path
For this walk, we will complete the section between Richmond and Kew. As you exit the park, carefully cross Star and Garter Hill Road. Right across is Petersham Common Woods. Find the entrance of the trail (it is a bit tricky to find) and go down the steep stairs until you reach the road at the bottom. From there the Thames Path is well indicated. Follow the signage in the direction of Richmond Centre.
Walking by the river, you’ll pass right by all the bustling terraces of Richmond’s pubs and restaurants, continuing up to Twickenham Bridge. Past this point, the path gets a bit wilder, with more trees and bushes lining your route.
A short distance ahead, you’ll notice the Thistleworth Marine. Look closely through the branches on the opposite bank to catch a glimpse of St. James Church’s spire.
Continue walking and you will be able to see a pink Pavilion. As you keep moving, you’ll soon see this pretty pink Pavilion. That’s the Boathouse of Syon Park, which leads you right to the Syon House, home to the Duke of Northumberland. This place was first built in the 1500s and then got a major makeover in the 1700s. It’s been opened to the public since 1951.
On your side of the bank, you can’t miss this towering Obelisk. This marks you’re right in front of Old Deer Park. The Obelisk is one of three built in 1769 to point out West, East, and True North. The objective of these Obelisks was to align the telescope of the King’s Observatory to observe Venus.
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Kew
You’ll then find yourself at the back of the Royal Botanic Kew Gardens, where inviting benches face the tranquil Thames. The Botanic Gardens have come a long way from their humble beginnings as a crop field in Sheen. It started in 1759 when Henry, Lord Capell of Tewkesbury, founded Kew Park. At that time, it comprised a series of gardens covering 132 hectares and included 40 buildings. The name we know today, Kew Gardens, was adopted in 1840. Now, it stands as the world’s largest and most diverse botanical garden, boasting an impressive collection of 8.5 million plants and fungi.
The best time to visit Kew Gardens is during the Spring and Summer months. However, there is always something to discover at Kew Gardens in each season such as the Christmas Light Show.
As you keep walking, you’ll notice the scenery starts to shift, and buildings begin to pop up behind the trees. Keep going for another 10 minutes, and once you hit Kew Bridge, it’s time to say goodbye to the Thames Path.
For those in search of a cosy pub experience, whether for a drink or a hearty meal, I highly recommend heading to the Greyhound. It’s just a 3-minute walk from Kew Bridge. This pub is a real gem, especially since they’ve got these neat little pods with heaters (a total lifesaver in the winter). The menu has all the comfort food you need, from sharing platters and juicy burgers to satisfying vegetarian dishes. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a walk.
Bon Appetit!
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Thames Path from Richmond to Kew Map
Do you want to do the same walk? Download the map of the Thames Path walk from Richmond to Kew below. You can upload it on your navigation app and follow the route from your phone. Check my guide on how to download and upload the map here.
Final Thoughts on The Thames Path Richmond to Kew Walk
And there we have it—the end of our picturesque journey from Richmond to Kew along the Thames Path. What a ride it’s been! From the serene greenery of Richmond Park, complete with its free-roaming deer, to the historic and lush expanses of the Royal Botanic Kew Gardens, every step of this walk has been filled with natural beauty and a slice of history.
Did you visit Richmond Park or Kew Gardens? Let me know in the comments below.
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