Destinations Europe
Leslie Veliz
From the British Museum to Buckingham Palace, the number of attractions in the family-friendly city of London is practically endless. However, if you want a quieter scene, head to the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames in South West London. Also known simply as Richmond, the London suburb is easily accessible via public transportation. Recently, Richmond has achieved fame for being the setting and filming location of the hit series “Ted Lasso” starring Jason Sudeikis.
As Season 3 of “Ted Lasso,” which premiered in March 2023, is likely its last, fans missing the series can always visit Richmond. In fact, there’s a “Ted Lasso” walking tour that takes guests to 24 filming locations around the town. This includes stopping at the Prince’s Head, a restaurant and pub that appears as the outside of the Crown & Anchor in the series.
However, even if you aren’t a “Ted Lasso” enthusiast, a trip to Richmond should still be on your bucket list. The town was named one of the happiest places to live in London in 2022, according to the Evening Standard. This is partly due to Richmond’s picturesque scenes and lovely views of the Thames, coveted by locals and tourists alike.
Richmond’s most popular activities are centered on nature
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One attribute that makes Richmond a desirable place to visit is its natural beauty. Richmond’s top attractions, including Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (aka Kew Gardens), further affirm this notion. Founded in 1759, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of its standout features is its Temperate House, a grand Victorian-era greenhouse with 1,200 types of plants from all over the world. Adult tickets to Kew Gardens currently range from £14 to £24, depending on the season.
There is a budget-friendly alternative to Kew Gardens: Richmond Park. This royal 2,500-acre park was formerly a royal hunting ground and is free to visit. Visitors can glimpse the wildlife, including deer, while they traverse the expansive grounds. It also has a botanical garden known as Isabella Plantation and is home to Roehampton Café, where guests can have lunch, coffee, and tea.
For those interested in history, there’s Ham House and Garden. Situated on the River Thames, Ham House was built in the 17th century. In 1626, King Charles I leased the home to a friend, William Murray. The house was later passed down to his daughter, Elizabeth Murray, and it remained in her family until the 1940s. Ham House has antique furniture and art on display. The National Trust notes that while it was altered a bit in the 18th and 19th centuries, it remains a reflection of 17th-century aesthetic values.
Where to stay and eat in Richmond
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Richmond has a reputation for being posh, and its accommodations for travelers reflect this. One popular place to stay is the Richmond Hill Hotel. Located next to Richmond Park, this stunning Georgian-style hotel exudes modernity with a vintage flair. It is dog-friendly, and with a four-star rating, it is ideal for those who want something luxurious. There is also the Petersham Hotel, which is a prime example of Victorian architecture. It has four stars, but unlike the Richmond Hill Hotel, the Petersham has views of the River Thames, making it a standout.
There are, of course, more affordable options. This includes Dukes Head Inn. While not fancy by any means, it is unique in that it is located in the same building as a pub. However, if you want a simple, no-frills accommodation that won’t break the bank, Richmond has a Travelodge.
As for food, Peggy Jean at Riverside Green is one place that provides guests with a unique dining experience in Richmond. The restaurant is located in an Oxford barge on the banks of the Thames and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In the end, visitors to London won’t want to miss out on all Richmond has to offer, even if they’re not fans of “Ted Lasso.”
