Welcome to one of London’s most magical hidden gems: Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park. It is one of the Royal Parks and it is completely free to visit – lucky us!
Just a little further out of London, near Hampton Court, Richmond Park is a huge sprawling green space famous for its roaming deer — and at its heart lies the dazzling, colourful wonderland of Isabella Plantation. This vibrant woodland garden is packed with rhododendron, magnolia, camellia, and a photogenic Still Pond that is pure reflection goals.
Peak bloom is usually from mid-April to May, and while it stays fairly quiet compared to other London parks, it’s big enough for everyone to find their own dreamy corner. Richmond is also home to Kew Gardens, if you’re looking for information on that, click here.
Isabella Plantation in Late April and Early May
What is the Isabella Plantation?
Set within a Victorian woodland, the Isabella Plantation covers 40 acres. It has a Secret Garden vibe with twists and turns with paths and streams. I don’t have any phone signal in here and I’ve got lost a few times! It’s best known for its breathtaking azaleas, which line the ponds and streams and explode into colour in late April and early May. Look for the Still Pond which has a rainbow coloured azalea border which reflects into the water at peak times. Beyond the famous azaleas, you’ll find huge rhododendron, magnolia, camellia, and a fascinating mix of rare trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.
Isabella Plantation Richmond
What to Wear to the Isabella Plantation
Since this is the brightest rainbow garden on earth, I say: go colourful!
With every hue imaginable in the gardens, you can easily match (or contrast) with your surroundings.
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Think: vibrant, voluminous pink dresses in front of pink blossoms.
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Or: bright flowing yellow dresses against walls of rainbow blooms.
Pro tip: Stick to trainers or flat, comfy shoes. It’s a woodland — heels or open sandals are a no-no.
Isabella Plantation
Can You Have a Picnic in the Isabella Plantation?
Yes! You’ll find plenty of visitors setting up relaxed picnics amongst the flowers. Most people seem to head to Thomson’s Lawn which is an open space with a view of Thomson’s Pond.
Just remember to leave no trace and respect the natural beauty around you. There’s also toilets in here which are very handy.
Best Time of Day to Visit Isabella Plantation
The beauty of a woodland garden?
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You’ll find a mix of full sun, dappled light, and shady areas throughout the day.
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Morning is especially magical — it’s quieter, the light is soft, and you’ll likely have many spots to yourself before the lunchtime picnickers arrive.
Most Instagrammable Spots in Isabella Plantation
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Still Pond: The showstopper! A serene pond surrounded by blooming azaleas creating stunning reflections.
- Camellia Walk: it is the most beautiful camellia covered archway I adore
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Everywhere else: Honestly, you can barely take a bad photo here. There’s colour around every corner.
(Just a gentle reminder — no climbing trees or shaking branches, please!)
What is Isabella Plantation Like Throughout the Year?
Here’s your month-by-month guide to what’s blooming and when:
January – February
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A quieter, frosty beauty.
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Some early camellias start flowering.
January at the Isabella Plantation
February at the Isabella Plantation
March
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Early spring excitement!
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Huge magnolia trees start to bloom, joining the colourful camellias.
March at Isabella Plantation
Late March and early April at Isabella Plantation
April
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Bright azaleas begin joining the magnolias and camellias.
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By mid-to-late April: carpets of petals from fallen blooms and the first signs of rhododendrons.
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Bluebells start to appear.
Isabella Plantation late April and early May
Isabella Plantation Late April and Early May
Isabella Plantation late April and early May
May
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Peak bloom season!
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Early May: Still Pond surrounded by rainbow azaleas = magic.
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Late May: The azaleas fade but rhododendrons (bigger, more dramatic) are still flowering.
Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park – late May
Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park – late May
June – August
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Summer turns the garden lush and green.
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Lilies flourish around the Still Pond.
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Rhododendrons can still be spotted blooming in early summer.
Isabella Plantation Still Pond in June
October – December
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Autumn brings fiery shades of orange and gold.
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Winter quiets the garden but offers a peaceful, stripped-back beauty.
October in Isabella Plantation
How to Get to Isabella Plantation
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By Car: This is the easiest way..
Head to Broomfield Hill Car Park (parking is free). -
By Public Transport:
You can take a train to Richmond or buses toward the park, but you’ll need to walk a bit from the nearest stops.
Final Tips for Visiting Isabella Plantation
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Visit early morning for the best light and peaceful vibes.
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Wear bright colours for perfect photo contrast.
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Respect the flowers — no picking or climbing.
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Don’t forget your camera (or your phone — every corner is pure magic!).
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