If you’re looking for a London day out that feels more like a countryside escape, Richmond is one of the most beautiful places to visit – especially in spring.
On a warm, sunny day, I spent the day exploring Richmond with a friend, following a circular walking route that took us through village streets, along the Thames, and into some of the prettiest hidden corners in London.
This walk ended up being around 13,000 steps and took us a full day at a relaxed pace, but you could easily adapt it into a half-day itinerary.
Here’s exactly how to spend a perfect day in Richmond.
🌿 Start at Richmond Station → Richmond Green
Begin your day arriving into Richmond and head straight towards Richmond Green — a wide open space that instantly feels more like a village than London.
Richmond Theatre
In spring, the trees around the green begin to bloom, and the whole area fills with people picnicking, relaxing, and enjoying the sunshine. It’s a lovely, calm way to start your day.
Just off the green, you’ll find narrow streets lined with independent shops, cafés, and little corners that feel quietly tucked away.
⚽ Explore the Ted Lasso Streets
Richmond has become even more popular thanks to Ted Lasso, and you can really feel that around these streets.
The charming lanes just off the green are home to filming locations, including Ted Lasso’s fictional neighbourhood and the iconic pub exterior.
You’ll also find a small shop dedicated to the show, filled with souvenirs from sweatshirts to keepsakes, much like a real football club shop.
Even if you haven’t seen the series, the atmosphere here is warm, lively, and full of character.
🥐 Coffee & Croissant Stop
We stopped for coffee and a croissant at a small café near the green called Bonne Bouche on Paved Court
Richmond is full of independent cafés, so it’s worth wandering slightly off the main path to find somewhere that feels a little quieter and more local.
🌸 Walk Through Old Palace Lane
From Richmond Green, make your way towards Old Palace Lane, which leads you gently down towards the river.
This area has a fascinating history it was once part of a Tudor palace and today it’s a mix of historic remnants and residential charm.
If you visit in mid-April, this street becomes especially magical during wisteria season, when the houses are draped in soft purple blooms.
Old Palace Lane Richmond
🌊 Arrive at the Riverside
The Thames in Richmond is truly one of the prettiest stretches of river in London.
On a sunny day, the whole area comes alive – people sitting along the edge, boats passing by, and trees leaning gently over the water.
There are plenty of places to stop for a drink or something to eat, and the atmosphere feels relaxed but vibrant.
🍻 Visit the Famous Flooding Pub
One of the most well-known spots here is The White Cross, a pub that famously floods when the tide comes in.
It’s a bit of a Richmond legend, and if you time it right, you might even see the water creeping up around the building.
It’s quirky, fun, and definitely worth a quick stop.
🚶♀️ Walk Along the Thames Path
From here, follow the Thames Path towards Petersham.
This part of the walk is incredibly peaceful, with stretches of greenery, glimpses of blossom in spring, and plenty of quiet corners to slow down and take it all in.
It’s one of those walks that doesn’t feel like London at all.
Richmond Riverside – Blossom
🌿 Visit Petersham Nurseries Café
Petersham Nurseries is easily one of the most beautiful spots in London.
Part garden centre, part restaurant, it feels like stepping into a hidden greenhouse filled with plants, flowers, and carefully curated details.
You can:
- Wander through the gardens
- Browse the shop (full of homeware, candles, and gifts)
- Or stop for lunch or coffee in the café
It’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger for a while.
Petersham Nurseries, Richmond
🌸 Extend into Richmond Park
If you have more time, you can extend your walk into Richmond Park – London’s largest Royal Park.
Highlights include:
- King Henry’s Mound (a protected view all the way to St Paul’s Cathedral)
- The famous deer roaming freely
- The beautiful Isabella Plantation in spring – read my full blog here
Isabella Plantation
🌅 Finish at Richmond Hill & The Roebuck
On your way back, head up Richmond Hill – it’s a bit of a climb, but completely worth it.
At the top, you’ll find one of the most iconic views in London, stretching across the Thames and surrounding greenery.
Stop at The Roebuck for a drink and take in the view – it’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon or at sunset.
Richmond Hill outside The Roebuck
✨ Final Thoughts
Richmond is one of those places that feels like a true escape from London – even though it’s just a short train journey away.
With its mix of riverside walks, hidden streets, and seasonal beauty, it’s perfect for a slow, aesthetic day out.
If you’re visiting in spring, you’ll catch blossom, fresh greenery, and that first warm sunshine that makes London feel a little bit magical.
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