2025 Richmond upon Thames Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

#londontrips 📍 Richmond Park, Southwest London – London’s largest royal park where you might just wander into a scene from a Studio Ghibli film. 🚂 How to Get There Take the District Line to Richmond Station, then either walk for 20 minutes or hop on Bus 371 or 65 to reach the park. 🌿 What to Do in Richmond Park? 🦌 Deer Spotting – Meet Over 600 Wild Deer Home to 600+ red and fallow deer, Richmond Park is the ultimate nature escape within the city. Best spots to find deer: ✅ Pen Ponds – Calm lakeside where deer often gather. ✅ Isabella Plantation area – A quiet woodland where deer roam freely. Tip: Keep a respectful distance. No feeding allowed – but photos? Yes, please! 🌸 Get Lost in a Fairytale Forest: Isabella Plantation This secret garden blooms with azaleas and cherry blossoms in spring and summer. Wander among winding paths, quiet ponds, and shaded glades — it’s like stepping into a Ghibli animation! 🏞 Climb to King Henry’s Mound – A View Fit for Royalty This is the highest point in the park, offering a rare sightline straight to St. Paul’s Cathedral in Central London. Legend says King Henry VIII once stood here, waiting for a signal confirming Anne Boleyn’s fate… 🚴♀️ Cycle or Picnic Like a Local Rent a bike (available near park entrances) and cycle the scenic loop trail. Or simply spread out a picnic blanket on the grass with sandwiches, fruit, and a pot of English tea. It’s the perfect way to experience London’s countryside charm without ever leaving the city.

🌸 Spring Exclusive | Pink Dreamy Cherry Blossom Tunnel Every spring, Kew Gardens in London welcomes a grand cherry blossom season. The garden is home to various types of cherry blossoms, from early-blooming Japanese cherry trees to late-blooming Somei Yoshino, creating a romantic and beautiful sea of pink flowers. 🎶 Outdoor Concerts | Full of Atmosphere In addition to cherry blossom viewing, the garden also hosts outdoor music performances, allowing visitors to enjoy the spring scenery while listening to music, making for a very pleasant experience. 🚶♂️ Large Garden | Bring Water and Comfortable Shoes Kew Gardens covers over 300 hectares and features attractions such as tropical greenhouses, lakes, and pavilions. The visit can easily take several hours, so it is recommended to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for a leisurely flower viewing. 📷 Recommended Photo Spots • Cherry Walk: When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, they form a dreamy tunnel, perfect for photos! • Japanese Landscape: Combining Japanese garden design, the cherry blossoms and stone lanterns create a picturesque scene. • Treetop Walkway: Overlooking the garden from the canopy, you can experience spring from a different perspective. 💡 Practical Information 📍 Address: Kew Gardens, Richmond, London TW9 3AE 🚇 Transportation: Take the District Line or Overground to Kew Gardens station, and it's about a 5-10 minute walk. 🎟 Tickets: From £15 for adults, it is recommended to book in advance on the official website to avoid queues. 🌸 This spring, come to Kew Gardens in London to experience the romantic atmosphere of cherry blossoms and music!

🕰️Opening Hours: 10am-5pm 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: Cafeteria, Botanical Garden, Gift Shop 💰Price per person: ~4000 yen Kew Gardens in London is a world-renowned botanical garden located in the suburbs of London, offering a beautiful blend of nature and culture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to approximately 50,000 species of plants across its vast grounds. Visitors can fully enjoy the charm of nature with attractions such as tropical greenhouses, historic glasshouses, and the magnificent treetop walkway. Additionally, Kew Gardens features numerous facilities and exhibits where visitors can learn about botany, making it an ideal destination not only for tourists but also for educational purposes. The gardens offer stunning scenery throughout the seasons, and there are also relaxing cafes and restaurants, ensuring that each visit brings new discoveries. For nature enthusiasts and photography lovers, Kew Gardens is a paradise-like spot. It is easily accessible from central London, making it a perfect place for a refreshing getaway.

If you're in London and looking for an outdoor spot with fewer tourists, I highly recommend Kew Gardens (Royal Botanic Gardens). Located in the southwest of London, this botanical garden is a paradise for plant enthusiasts. It spans a vast area and boasts one of the world's finest plant collections and stunning Victorian-era greenhouse architecture (such as the Palm House and the Temperate House). The garden cultivates over 50,000 plant species, including many endangered ones. The Temperate House is the largest Victorian greenhouse in the world, and walking through it feels like traversing a plant kingdom from around the globe. The Waterlily House and the Japanese Garden offer visitors a completely different visual experience. Whether you're admiring the giant water lilies or enjoying the serene stone garden, you'll find it very therapeutic. Due to its vast size, I highly recommend spending a whole day there if you enjoy leisurely strolls and taking your time to appreciate everything. ✅ Kew Garden 📍 Address: Richmond, London, TW9 3AE, United Kingdom ⏰ Opening Hours: Opening time: Open daily from 10:00 AM. Closing time: Varies by month. In summer, it usually closes at 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM, while in winter, it may close as early as 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. 🚇 Transportation: Tube: Approximately 30-40 minutes. • Route: Take the District Line (Green Line) towards the Richmond branch and get off at Kew Gardens Station. Train: Travel time varies depending on the starting point, approximately 20-40 minutes. • Route: Take the London Overground to Kew Gardens Station.

Latest News‼️ Countdown to the 2024 London Christmas Lighting Schedule ✨📅 November and December are the most anticipated months in the UK, as the Christmas holiday approaches. The festive atmosphere in the UK becomes more vibrant. Christmas lighting ceremonies across the country become annual events 🌈. Today, we bring you the schedule for Christmas lighting ceremonies in London. Don't forget to check them out 📷. —————————————————— ✨ Regent Street Regent Street, a must-see in London, is not only a hub for major brands but also the birthplace of Christmas lighting in the UK. This year, angel lights will soar above Regent Street, illuminating the entire street ⏰ Lighting time: November 7, 2024, to January 5, 2025 📍: W1B 5AH ✨ Oxford Street Oxford Street is not just a shopping paradise but also a romantic sea of stars. This year continues last year's 'Starry Sky' theme! The ancient buildings and twinkling stars complement each other beautifully ⏰ Lighting time: November 5, 2024, to early January 2025 📍: W1A 1EX ✨ Carnaby Street Carnaby Street, located in London's Soho district, is a famous shopping street near Oxford Street and Regent Street. This year's Christmas lighting theme is 'Into the Light,' featuring cosmic and modern 3D light decorations ⏰ Lighting time: November 7, 2024, to early January 2025 📍: W1F 9PB ✨ Christmas at Kew The Royal Botanic Gardens will host its Christmas lights from November 13 to January 5. This event attracts many visitors each year ⏰ November 13, 2024, to January 5, 2025 📍: TW93AB ✨ Covent Garden Covent Garden features a 16-meter Christmas tree with over 3,000 decorative lights. The market hall is adorned with golden bells and bows ⏰ Lighting time: November 12, 2024, to early January 2025 📍: WC2E 8RF #LondonChristmasLights #UKChristmas #UK #London #CityCenter #UKTravel #AngelLights

Hampton Court Garden is a historic garden located around Hampton Court Palace. It is meticulously designed and landscaped in a variety of styles, from colorful flower gardens, manicured shrubs, to beautiful fountains, making Hampton Court Garden a great place to stroll and take pictures. The garden is also the venue for an annual flower festival, which attracts people from all over the world to enjoy the beauty of various flowers. Strolling in Hampton Court Garden feels like stepping back in time, as the garden has preserved the atmosphere of an ancient palace garden very well. You can also enjoy walking through the garden's unique maze, which is one of the oldest mazes in the world. A visit here is full of impressions of both beauty and history. #tripแจกโรงแรมฟรี #เที่ยวต่างประเทศ #เที่ยวเที่ยวสวยภาพ

Hampton Court Palace is a historic palace and one of the most famous palaces in England. Built during the reign of King Henry VIII and renovated and expanded over the years, the palace is a beautiful blend of Tudor and Baroque architecture. It also has a large, intricately designed garden, which is a great place to walk around and take photos. A visit to Hampton Court Palace also offers the opportunity to learn about the life and history of King Henry VIII, exploring the lavish and historic rooms. There are displays of furniture and paintings that tell the story of the royal family at that time, making a walk through the palace an educational and memorable experience. #tripแจกโรงแรมฟรี #เที่ยวต่างประเทศ #เที่ยวเที่ยวสวยถ่ายภาพที่

Hampton Court Palace in the UK is located in the suburbs 16 kilometers away from London. It was first built in 1504 and is one of the greatest palaces left over from the Middle Ages. The palace was the royal palace of the Tudor and Stuart dynasties, and was also the palace of Henry VIII and his six wives. Hampton Palace has undergone several expansions, so some parts of the architectural style are different, and the scale is also getting larger, including the garden area of ​​​​60 hectares. This palace was originally the home of Bishop Henry VIII, so the entrance is designed to be smaller than that of other royal palaces. Moreover, the architectural style is more traditional and down-to-earth, rather than exaggerated and gorgeously decorated. Because this place is full of historical stories, it has accumulated a strong sense of humanistic atmosphere. #Palace #100 Ways to Travel

⚜Hampton Court Palace Once a royal residence of the British monarchy, this Tudor palace is the epitome of regal architecture. Wander through its halls to glimpse into the life of Henry VIII 🤴🏻 and his family, and witness the rise and fall of the Tudor dynasty ⚔. Explore the oldest hedge maze and 60 acres gardens. The most enchanting features are the towering pine trees, trimmed into mushroom-like shapes, stand in neat rows 🌳. Here, tulips blossom in spring; in summer, roses fill the parkland fields; and in autumn, golden leaves gently fall from the maple trees💐…… It feels like a magical fairy tale world🪄. On a clear sunny day☀️☁, a leisurely stroll through this serene space offers a truly delightful escape. 📍Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU ⏳ 21 July – 07 September, 10:00-17:30 💷 £27.20 ⚜️Eltham Palace After centuries of lied wasted, this medieval Tudor palace🏛️ was transformed in the 1930s when the wealthy Courtauld family built a modern marvel🛋️ connected to the palace. Wander through the grand medieval hall and immerse yourself in the opulent Art Deco style🪞. Here, you’ll marvel at the true essence of old money elegance🥂. 📍Court Rd, SE9 5NP ⏳ 10:00-17:00 💷 £16.30 ⚜Leighton House Frederic Leighton was a renowned Victorian artist 👨🏻🎨, and this house once served as his house-studio. The architecture, decor, and pieces of artworks he collected here all reflect his unique artistic vision—exotic and bold yet refined 🕋. The hall is adorned with exquisite tiles that Leighton gathered during his travels to Turkey, Egypt, Damascus, and beyond🦋🔹. The mix of elements creates a vintage, stylish atmosphere with a strong Arabic style🧿. A lifelike peacock specimen🦚 beside the staircase becomes a finishing touch, adding a touch of vitality to the space. 📍12 Holland Park Rd, W14 8LZ ⏳ 10:00-17:30 💷 £14 ⚜️Two Temple Place Commissioned by the wealthy magnate William Waldorf in 1890, this neo-Gothic mansion exudes an air of mystery and elegance. With dim lighting🕯, the rustic glow of the ornate woodwork and the serene beauty of the interior is emphasized🎻. The grand hall features two stunning stained glass windows, one depicting sunrise and the other sunset🌅. As you walk across the floor inlaid with precious stones💠 – including marble, porphyry, onyx, and jasper- you will be dazzled by the intricate sculptures and reliefs✨. It’s the most extravagant and breathtaking Cosmati style. 📍Temple, WC2R 3BD ⏳ Open on select dates year-round. Check the official website for details. #london #uktravel #hamptoncourt #beauty

The territory of the Kew Royal Botanic Gardens consists of several parts: Entrance Gate (Entrance Zone), where there are lawns with trees and plants. The Riverside Zone, which has a Herbarium, the Kew Palace, a small garden, a nursery, the Joseph Banks Center for Economic Botany and various office premises. The Northeastern Zone, on the territory of which there are administrative and residential premises, garden plots, as well as historical buildings, an Aquatic Garden and a Rockery. The Palm House Zone, which has lawns, flower beds, terraces for relaxation, decorative ponds. The main structure of this territory is a palm house with a terrace and flower beds, and opposite it is an educational center for park workers and school-age children. The Pagoda Alley (Pagoda Vista Zone) is considered a historical part of the Kew Gardens, the central link of which is the Pagoda. Broad-leaved trees and evergreens are planted on the sides of the alley. The alley is complemented by the architectural buildings of the Tempera House with the world's largest Victorian greenhouse and the Marianne North Gallery with a collection of botanical art. The Southwestern Zone is a forested strip with architectural buildings. The Syon Vista Zone has alleys and a lake. The most famous one here is the observation deck at Syon House, overlooking Botanic Gardens. The Western Zone is the historical part where the Bamboo Garden and the Azalea Garden are located. Also on the basis of the Royal Botanic Gardens, short-term courses are held for 1 to 3 days in the following areas: spring photography, vegetable growing for beginners, botanical illustration, botanical illustration for beginners, drawing spring bulbs, drawing orchids in watercolor, digital photography for beginners, creating a botanical sketchbook, growing orchids for beginners, planting design, making paper flowers, macro photography, pen and ink painting, plant propagation and etc. #trip #flowerlover #garden

Kew Gardens is like a back garden in London😝 People in London are super like ❤️ walking because it is very relaxing 😗 It was listed as one of the World Cultural Heritage Sites by the United Nations Cultural Organization as early as 2003 😛 so it attracts many tourists even more Its total area is 134 hectares❣️ You can tell how big it is Kew Gardens has been around for 270 years It was founded in 1759 by Princess Augusta, the mother of George III At first it was only used for royal appreciation 🤣 but in 1840 it was handed over to government management and now it is open to the public🤓 The maintenance team here continues to cultivate extinct plants around the world😗 So there are many precious varieties here In addition, the following reasons why he is so famous are related😝 First of all it is the top five important in the world!! ️ One of the botanical gardens There it has been bred about 30,000 plant varieties and the specimens have more than 7 million items The plants he collected account for 1/7 of the known plants in the world!! ️‼ ️ Of course, there is no shortage of seasonal theme events😍 Especially at Christmas time is the most popular 👏🏻 The souvenir shop in Kew Gardens is very good 🤞🏻 They will get their own cultivated seeds honey and so on It's great to buy home as souvenirs 👍🏻👍🏻  It is very convenient to get there just take the District line to Kew Gardens station and walk 15 minutes to Lion Gate👏🏻 Because its place is really big so I think at least to schedule a visit out of 3 Otherwise you will actually only see a very small part of it with a little 🤏🏻 waste The month I go there is so right is the flowering season of roses ❤️ so going to Rose Garden really feel very make Full of different colors of roses 🌹 flowers 🥰 to take pictures 📸 really make If you want to see remember every May will be the flowering period of the rose garden 😛 There are a total of 170 different varieties of roses in Rose Garden❣️ I really didn't expect that many All colors are super many super rich🤓 And in the rose cluster there is spaced out space for everyone to walk 🥰 take pictures 📸 is very convenient There are actually many points to see in Kew Gardens🥹 If you have time, you must not miss it #UK must-see photo spots #parent-child activities #weekend trip #overseas travel #UK attractions #UK must-see photo spots #UK good places

#londontrip Address - Off Church Ln, Petersham road, Richmond PW10 7AB, United Kingdom. Ambiance/Facilities - Well designed in a glass and wooden houses with a beauty of garden, flowers, great outdoor setting up and comfortable furniture, friendly and relaxing atmosphere. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with a large menu. Highlights - We love a tasty latte coffee and the delicious Lemon Tart. Avg. Price per Person - Reasonable Price Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Welcome to Kew Gardens, a botanical paradise nestled in the heart of London. 🌿🌺 As one of the world's leading botanical gardens, Kew Gardens offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, scientific research, and historical significance. Located in southwest London, Kew Gardens spans over 300 acres and is home to an astonishing collection of plants from around the globe. 🌍 Explore the various themed gardens, each with its own unique charm and character. From the tranquil Waterlily House to the vibrant Princess of Wales Conservatory, there is something to captivate every visitor. One of the highlights of Kew Gardens is the iconic Palm House, a Victorian glasshouse that houses a remarkable collection of tropical plants. 🌴 Step inside and be transported to a lush tropical rainforest, complete with towering palm trees, exotic orchids, and cascading waterfalls. Kew Gardens is not only a feast for the eyes but also a hub of scientific research and conservation. 🔬 The gardens are home to the Millennium Seed Bank, a project dedicated to preserving and protecting the world's plant species. Visitors can learn about the vital work being done to safeguard our botanical heritage and the importance of biodiversity. Beyond the flora, Kew Gardens also boasts stunning architecture, including the iconic Temperate House, the world's largest surviving Victorian glasshouse. Take a leisurely stroll along the treetop walkway, offering panoramic views of the gardens and beyond. 🌳 Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city, Kew Gardens is a must-visit destination in London. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, explore the rich history, and discover the wonders of this botanical gem. 🌿

#londontrip Unveil history at Hampton Court Palace in London! 🏰✨ Roam through captivating Tudor architecture, splendid gardens 🌷🌳, and immerse yourself in royal tales. Don't miss the iconic Henry VIII's Great Hall! 👑💫 #HamptonCourtPalace #LondonAdventures Tip: Beat the crowds 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ by arriving early or later in the day. Engage with costumed guides for insider stories 🎭📚. Grab a garden stroll map for serene moments. ☕🌞 #RoyalRetreat #TravelTips #HistoricalWonders

#londontrip Hampton Court Palace is a remarkable historical site that offers a captivating journey into England's royal past. The palace's stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens provide a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of Tudor and Stuart times. The highlight of the palace is undoubtedly its intricate Tudor kitchens, where you can experience the sights, sounds, and even the smells of a bustling royal kitchen. The palace also boasts the famous Great Hall, where significant events in history played out, and the splendid State Apartments that showcase luxurious living quarters. #mytripvlog#urbanexplorer#tripblazers#awesomepic#summervacation#travel#passionpassport#london

Rick Stein's restaurant is located in SW14 8SW. It's been a long time since I've eaten with such a beautiful river view! The wine is good and the food is good! However, the transportation is convenient we have to see clearly, driving nearby can use the app to pay, if the car friends to pay attention to the train schedule, every half an hour before one, plus the restaurant needs to make reservations (reservation in advance to book window seats), so time to pay attention ⚠️

The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, also known as Kew Gardens. The gardens include the ornate Great Pagoda and Kew Palace – the former summer residence of King George III. Kew’s Pagoda was completed in 1762 as a gift for Princess Augusta, the founder of the Gardens. The Great Pagoda was restored in 2018 to its original 18th century splendour. This includes the 80 dragons which originally adorned the roofs, each carved from gilded wood.

Kew Gardens, officially known as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is located in Kew, Richmond, on the banks of the Thames in the southwest suburbs of London, England. It was originally a royal garden of the United Kingdom and has collected about 50,000 species of plants, accounting for about one-seventh of the known plants. It is currently a World Cultural Heritage recognized by the United Nations. The botanical garden is huge. In addition to the conventional garden design, there is also a special wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is close to the Thames and has a good ecological environment. Many roads in the park are covered with endless grass carpets. Registration type Cultural heritage Assessment criteria Cultural heritage (ii) (iii) (iv) Registration year 2003 The history of Kew Gardens can be traced back to 1759, when Augusta, the widow of Prince of Wales, son of George II and Queen Caroline, sent people to build a botanical garden covering only 3.5 hectares in the manor where she lived. This was the original Kew Gardens. By 1840, Kew Gardens was handed over to government management and gradually opened to the public. Later, after three donations from the Wang family, by 1904, the size of Kew Gardens reached 121 hectares. The variety of art collected by Kew Gardens is the largest in the world. Most of these plants are planted according to families and genera, and perennial herbs or bulbous flowers are appropriately configured according to ecological conditions. The greenhouses at Kew Gardens are even more famous. There are dozens of large greenhouses of various shapes here. Kew Gardens is a botanical garden in southwest London that houses the "largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world". Founded in 1840, from the exotic garden at Kew Park in Middlesex, England, its living collections include more than 30,000 different kinds of plants, while the herbarium, which is one of the largest in the world, has over seven million preserved plant specimens. Official name Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Criteria Cultural: (ii), (iii), (iv) Reference 1084 Inscription 2003 (27th Session) Area 132 ha (330 acres) Buffer zone 350 ha (860 acres)

Spectacular royal park to visit in West London, with impressive glasshouses and wonderful restaurants and coffee shops. Ideal place to spend the weekend. Very family friendly. With stunning nature everywhere. Very well preserved#境外遊

I had been to London so many times, but I had yet to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, better known as the Kew Gardens. On my last trip I finally made it there. It is a little outside of the city centre. You can easily reach it by subway, though it might take up to an hour to get there. At 20 pounds a ticket, entrance fees are quite high, but the gardens are enlisted on the Unesco World Heritage list. The gardens are huge. You can explore the different areas, such as the woodlands for hours. Though my favourites are the glass greenhouses, especially the one with the giant lilly pads. #bucketlistreboot

Terrace Gardens just opposite the river Thames in Richmond-upon-Thames, London, is a very tranquil, beautiful park on a steep hill.It is filled with an array of beautiful flowers - the gardeners can be seen here most days working really hard.The best thing about this place though are the squirrels: rattle a bag of shelled peanuts & they run down the trees right up to you - they are so tame......It is such fun watching them remove the shells & munch on the peanuts, & also bury some of the peanuts for later.....I have never been anywhere where the squirrels are tame enough to come really close. I can highly recommend this place - it is accessible by walling along the river Thames or by walking towards Richmond Hill (walking on an inclining pavement towards Richmond Park).Views from the higher area of Terrace gardens are of the river Thames, & Twickenham stadium can be seen in the distance.#thamesriver

London at Christmas is pure magic — twinkling lights, festive markets, cozy pubs, and iconic sights dressed in their holiday best. Here’s your go-to guide for experiencing the capital in all its Yuletide glory: 1. See the Best Christmas Lights 🌟 Oxford Street & Regent Street – World-famous for dazzling light displays 💎 Covent Garden – Giant baubles, mistletoe chandeliers & a 60-foot Christmas tree ❄️ Carnaby Street – Quirky themes and vibrant colors each year Tip: Go after sunset and grab a hot chocolate from a nearby café. 2. Explore London's Christmas Markets 🎁 Southbank Centre Winter Market – Riverside stalls with mulled wine & artisan gifts ⛸️ Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park) – Huge market, rides, ice skating & more 🛍️ Greenwich Christmas Market – Charming and less crowded 🍷 Must-try: German bratwurst and glühwein (mulled wine)! 3. Go Ice Skating ⛸️ Somerset House – Picture-perfect backdrop with DJs & festive snacks 🏰 Hampton Court Palace – Skate in the historic court of King Henry VIII 🌃 Canary Wharf – Modern vibes with fewer crowds 4. Enjoy Festive Shows & Concerts ✨ Royal Albert Hall – Christmas carol concerts and festive classics 🎭 West End – Don’t miss holiday-themed performances or a classic pantomime 🕯️ Candlelight Concerts – Seasonal favorites by candlelight in stunning venues 5. Visit Christmas Attractions 🎅 Santa’s Grottos – Harrods, Hamleys, and ZSL London Zoo 🎠 Winter Wonderland – More than just a market; it’s a Christmas theme park 🌌 Christmas at Kew – Mesmerizing light trail through botanical gardens 6. Warm Up in a Festive Pub or Afternoon Tea 🔥 Cosy Pubs: The Churchill Arms, The Holly Bush, or The Mayflower ☕ Festive Afternoon Tea: The Ritz, Claridge’s, or Fortnum & Mason Tip: Book in advance—these fill up fast! 7. Christmas Day in London 📸 Take a walk: Enjoy crowd-free views of Big Ben, Tower Bridge & St. Paul’s 🚇 Note: No public transport on Dec 25 – plan accordingly! 🍽️ Book a Christmas lunch: Many hotels offer festive set menus 8. Where to Stay 🎄 For festive charm: The Dilly, The Langham, or The Zetter Townhouse 🛏️ On a budget: Z Hotels, Premier Inn (City locations), or citizenM Final Tip: Bundle up, charge your camera, and leave room for mince pies. London at Christmas is a once-a-year experience you won’t forget!

If you’re looking for the best place in London to see cherry blossom, Kew Gardens is unbeatable. I’ve been going every week this season and it’s been a real highlight — so many different varieties of blossom, from delicate whites to those really vibrant pink ones that just pop against the greenery. This year, the early blooms were especially stunning — more variety, more colour, and somehow just that bit more magical. But blink and you’ll miss them! A cheeky surprise: parrots have been out in force, pecking away at the blossoms (especially the pink ones), so it’s definitely worth getting down there sooner rather than later. After wandering through the gardens, we had afternoon tea at the Pavilion Brasserie — highly recommend it. Classic scones, cakes and sandwiches, with a gorgeous view across the lake. Such a peaceful way to round off the visit. There’s something really special about Kew in spring — peaceful, beautiful, and a bit of an escape from the city buzz. #KewGardens #CherryBlossomSeason #SpringInLondon #LondonBlooms #AfternoonTeaWithAView #SakuraUK #NatureInTheCity #KewInBloom #BotanicBeauty #HiddenLondon #UKDaysOut #WeekendWanderings #LondonTeaSpots #ParrotsInLondon #CherryBlossomWatch #SpringEscape

#londontrips If you’re craving a nature escape without leaving the city, Kew Gardens is your lush little oasis. It’s botanical beauty, history, and peaceful vibes all wrapped up in one magical place. Here are the can’t-miss highlights 👇 🏛️ Palm House Step into the tropics in this giant Victorian glasshouse — it’s hot, humid, and absolutely gorgeous. Pro tip: Head up to the narrow balcony for rainforest views from above 🌴🔥 🌼 The Great Broad Walk Borders Europe’s longest herbaceous borders! Expect bursts of color, textures, and Insta-worthy floral vibes. Best in bloom: Late spring through summer = flower paradise. 🌲 The Treetop Walkway Soar 59 feet above ground on this elevated walkway through the canopy. Tip: If you’re scared of heights, take it slow — it gently sways! 🧊 Temperate House The world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, home to 1,500+ rare and endangered plants. Fact: It took 5 years to restore this beauty and it’s a masterpiece. 💮 Japanese Garden + Chokushi-Mon A peaceful corner with traditional landscaping and a replica of a Kyoto temple gate. Vibe: Zen AF. Perfect spot to sit, breathe, and take it all in. 🍄 The Hive This immersive art installation lets you “feel” what it’s like inside a real beehive — complete with sound and light sensors linked to a live hive nearby! 🐝 Night tip: It glows beautifully at dusk. 🧭 Travel Tips ✅ Closest tube: Kew Gardens Station (District Line + Overground) ✅ Arrive early to beat the tour groups ✅ Bring a picnic — there are lovely green spots to relax ✅ Check their seasonal events — summer concerts, light shows, and orchid festivals are chef’s kiss ✅ Booking ahead online = cheaper tickets

#londontrips Craving a breath of fresh air and some wild charm in London? Head southwest to Richmond Park, the largest of the royal parks — where city life gives way to roaming deer, panoramic views, and ancient oaks that whisper centuries of stories. 🌿 Wander Through Ancient Woodland Start your adventure at Pembroke Lodge, where landscaped gardens lead into wilder woods. Venture deeper and you’ll find gnarled oaks and chestnuts that have stood for hundreds of years, offering dappled shade and fairytale vibes. 🦌 Spot the Free-Roaming Deer Keep your camera ready — over 600 red and fallow deer call Richmond Park home! These majestic residents roam freely, adding an unforgettable thrill to every stroll. Just remember to admire from a respectful distance. 🏞️ Don’t Miss King Henry’s Mound Climb up this historic viewpoint for one of the most surprising London secrets — a perfectly framed protected view all the way to St. Paul’s Cathedral, over 10 miles away! It’s the kind of hidden gem even locals love rediscovering. 🚴 Explore by Bike or Horseback Feeling more adventurous? Rent a bike or join a horseback ride to explore the park’s vastness. The trails wind through meadows, past shimmering ponds, and into quiet corners where time slows down. ☕ Refuel Like Royalty Circle back to Pembroke Lodge Tea Rooms for hearty scones, sandwiches, and a cup of tea with a view fit for nobility.

#londontrips Looking for a dreamy green escape right in the city? Kew Gardens is London’s own botanical wonderland—sprawling glasshouses, global flora, treetop views, and peaceful paths that feel like they belong in a storybook. 🌿 Morning Arrival: Wake Up with Nature Get there early to beat the crowds and breathe in the calm. Head straight for the Palm House, a glass cathedral filled with tropical plants and rainforest vibes. The warmth and scent? Instantly transporting. 🌲 Sky-High Adventure: The Treetop Walkway Don’t miss the Treetop Walkway—an elevated path above the forest canopy where you’ll spot birds, rustling leaves, and panoramic views of Kew’s 300+ acres. 🍂 Secret Corners & Global Gardens Wander into the Japanese Garden, the Rock Garden, and the Alpine House—each zone is a different world. The Great Pagoda adds an unexpected splash of drama, especially when the dragon sculptures catch the sun. ☕ Break Time: Coffee & Cake at the Orangery Café Pause with a cream tea or hearty lunch at one of Kew’s cafés. The Orangery is a favorite—airy, historic, and right near the Rose Garden. 🌼 Afternoon Glow: Glasshouse Gallery & Temperate House End with a peaceful stroll through Temperate House, the largest surviving Victorian glasshouse in the world. It’s full of rare and endangered plants—and the architecture is just as breathtaking.

#londontrips Richmond Park, located in southwest London, is the largest Royal Park in the city, spanning about 2,500 acres. Known for its vast open spaces, ancient woodlands, and herds of free-roaming deer, it offers a peaceful escape from urban life. **Getting There:** The park is easily accessible by public transport. The closest train stations are Richmond and Kingston, both about a 20-30 minute walk or a short bus ride from the park. Several buses also serve the park area. If driving, there are parking areas, but these can fill up quickly on weekends. **What to See and Do:** * **Deer spotting:** Richmond Park is famous for its large populations of red and fallow deer, often seen grazing openly, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. * **Isabella Plantation:** A beautiful, manicured woodland garden known for rhododendrons and azaleas, ideal for a peaceful walk. * **Pen Ponds:** Scenic ponds that are great for birdwatching and relaxing by the water. * **Cycling and Walking:** The park has designated cycling routes and numerous walking trails for all levels. * **King Henry’s Mound:** Offers one of the most famous views in London, a protected sightline to St. Paul’s Cathedral across the city. * **Picnics and Relaxation:** Plenty of open meadows and picnic spots. **Tips:** * Wear comfortable shoes; the terrain can be uneven. * Bring water and snacks, as options inside the park are limited. * Keep a safe distance from deer and don’t feed them. * Best visited in spring and autumn for beautiful foliage and wildlife activity. Richmond Park combines natural beauty with historical significance, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility near London.

#londontrips Isabella Plantation is a beautiful woodland garden located within Richmond Park, London. It’s a peaceful, lush haven known for its stunning variety of plants, especially rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias that bloom spectacularly in spring and early summer. The plantation spans about 40 acres and is carefully maintained to highlight native and exotic plants in a natural woodland setting. The landscape features winding paths, small streams, and several ponds that create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for leisurely walks and photography. The diverse wildlife, including birds and butterflies, adds to the garden’s charm. Visitors often enjoy spotting water lilies on the ponds and listening to the gentle sounds of nature. Isabella Plantation is easily accessible from Richmond Park’s main entrances and offers well-marked trails suitable for all fitness levels. There are benches scattered throughout the area for resting and enjoying the serene surroundings. The best time to visit is from April to June, when the vibrant blooms are at their peak, but the garden’s natural beauty is pleasant year-round. Entry to Isabella Plantation is free, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers, families, or anyone seeking a quiet escape from the city. Nearby Richmond Park also offers larger open spaces and deer sightings, so combining a visit to both places makes for a delightful day outdoors.