Richmond Park London – Timings, Ticket Price, Entry Fee, History & Complete Visitor Information

Richmond Park is one of London’s most extraordinary natural landmarks a place where royal history, untamed wildlife, and vast open landscapes come together in perfect balance. Unlike many city parks designed primarily for leisure, Richmond Park feels more like a piece of countryside carefully preserved within the boundaries of a global capital.

Spanning over 2,500 acres, Richmond Park is the largest Royal Park in London and one of the largest urban parks in Europe. It offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience ancient woodlands, wild grasslands, and free-roaming deer just a short distance from central London.

Introduction to Richmond Park, London

Richmond Park is located in South West London, primarily within the borough of Richmond upon Thames, with parts extending into Kingston upon Thames and Roehampton. Despite its proximity to residential neighbourhoods and busy roads, the park retains a sense of wilderness that feels worlds away from urban life.

The park is managed by The Royal Parks, an independent charity responsible for preserving London’s historic royal green spaces. Richmond Park is not only a recreational area but also a National Nature Reserve, making it one of the most ecologically important sites in Greater London.

What sets Richmond Park apart is its unchanged landscape. For centuries, the land has been protected from development, allowing ancient trees, rare plants, and wildlife ecosystems to thrive naturally.

Why Richmond Park Is Famous

Richmond Park is internationally recognised for several reasons:

It is London’s largest Royal Park
Home to hundreds of wild deer
Features protected ancient oak trees
Offers panoramic views across London
Holds deep royal and political history
Designated as a National Nature Reserve
Preserved largely unchanged since the 17th century

Few places in London combine history, nature, and tranquillity on this scale.

Richmond Park London Timings (Detailed Guide)

Understanding the park’s opening and closing times is essential when planning your visit.

General Opening Hours

Richmond Park is open daily, including weekends and public holidays.

Opening Time: 7:00 AM (all year)
Closing Time: Varies by season and sunset time

Seasonal Closing Times

Spring & Summer (April – September):
Usually closes between 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Autumn (October):
Closes around 6:30 PM
Winter (November – March):
Closes at dusk, typically between 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Vehicle gates often close earlier than pedestrian gates during winter months.

Richmond Park Ticket Price & Entry Fee

Is There Any Entry Fee for Richmond Park?

No. Richmond Park is completely free to enter.

Ticket Price: £0
Entry Fee: £0
Walking, jogging, photography: Free
Cycling (on permitted routes): Free

This makes Richmond Park one of the best free attractions in London.

Car Parking Charges at Richmond Park (Important Information)

While entry to Richmond Park London is completely free, visitors who arrive by car should be aware that parking charges apply at designated car parks within the park. These charges help support conservation work, maintenance of facilities, and the protection of wildlife across the park.

Richmond Park Parking Fees

Parking fees are charged per vehicle for the entire day. Payment can usually be made using on-site payment machines or approved digital payment methods.

Car Parking Charges (Important Information)

While entry is free, parking fees apply to cars using designated car parks inside the park.

Vehicle Type	Parking Charge	Additional Notes
Cars	Approximately £7 per day	Valid for the whole day within the park
Motorcycles	Free	No parking fee required
Blue Badge Holders	Free	Badge must be clearly displayed

Important Parking Guidelines

Parking is permitted only in marked and designated car park areas.
Parking on grassland or roadside verges is not allowed.
Parking charges may change, so visitors are advised to check signage on arrival.
Blue Badge holders can park free of charge in designated bays.
All vehicles must leave the park before gate closing times.

Why Parking Charges Apply

Revenue generated from parking charges is reinvested into Richmond Park to support habitat conservation, road maintenance, visitor facilities, and wildlife protection. Paying for parking helps preserve the natural beauty and historic landscape of the park for future generations.

Visitors are encouraged to use public transport, walking, or cycling where possible to reduce traffic and environmental impact within Richmond Park.

History of Richmond Park – A Deep Dive

Creation of Richmond Park (1637)

Richmond Park was created in 1637 during the reign of King Charles I. At the time, England was politically unstable, and the King sought to establish a secure royal hunting ground near London.

The land was enclosed with a brick wall, parts of which still exist today. This wall, over 11 kilometres long, helped preserve the park’s boundaries and protect deer from poachers.

Royal Hunting Traditions

Richmond Park was originally used as a deer hunting park for royalty and nobility. Red and fallow deer were introduced and carefully managed to maintain a sustainable population.

Unlike other royal parks that were later landscaped or redesigned, Richmond Park remained largely untouched, preserving its original character.

Opening the Park to the Public

By the 18th century, access to Richmond Park gradually expanded to include the public. Over time, it became a shared space still protected, yet open to everyone.

Richmond Park in Modern Times

Today, Richmond Park represents:

Over 380 years of continuous history
One of the best-preserved historic landscapes in England
A balance between public access and strict conservation

The park’s layout today closely resembles its original 17th-century design.

Wildlife in Richmond Park London

The Famous Deer of Richmond Park

One of the main attractions of Richmond Park is its free-roaming deer population, which has existed here since the park’s creation.

There are approximately:

300 Red Deer
300 Fallow Deer

These deer live entirely wild and are not domesticated.

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Deer Rutting Season (Autumn)

The deer rut occurs between September and November and is one of the most dramatic natural events in London.

During this time:

Male deer compete for mates
Loud roars can be heard across the park
Visitors must maintain extra distance

Visitors are advised to keep at least 50 metres away during rutting season.

Other Wildlife Species

Richmond Park supports an impressive range of wildlife:

Over 140 bird species
Owls, kestrels, and woodpeckers
Foxes, rabbits, and bats
Rare beetles and insects
Amphibians living in ponds and wetlands

Ancient Trees & Natural Landscape

Richmond Park is home to:

Ancient oak trees over 700 years old
Rare fungi and mosses
Grassland habitats unique to the region

These ancient trees support thousands of species and are among the oldest living organisms in London.

Top Things to Do in Richmond Park

1. Walking & Nature Trails

Richmond Park offers miles of walking paths suitable for:

Leisure walks
Nature exploration
Long countryside-style hikes

The terrain varies from flat grassland to gentle hills.

2. Cycling in Richmond Park

Cycling is permitted on:

Designated roads
Approved cycling routes

Off-road cycling is restricted to protect wildlife habitats.

3. Picnics in Richmond Park

Richmond Park is perfect for picnics due to:

Open spaces
Quiet surroundings
Scenic views

Barbecues and fires are not allowed.

4. Photography & Filming

Photographers visit Richmond Park year-round for:

Sunrise mist
Deer photography
Seasonal colours
Wide landscape shots

5.Birdwatching

Early mornings are ideal for spotting:

Woodland birds
Birds of prey
Migratory species

Best Viewpoints in Richmond Park

King Henry’s Mound

One of London’s most famous viewpoints, offering:

A protected sightline to St Paul’s Cathedral
Views across the Thames Valley

Pembroke Lodge Gardens

A landscaped garden area with:

Flower beds
Seating
Exceptional sunset views

Pembroke Lodge – History & Visitor Experience

Pembroke Lodge is a historic Georgian mansion located within Richmond Park.

Why Pembroke Lodge Is Special

Former residence of royalty
Panoramic views over Surrey and the Thames
Popular café and restaurant

It is one of the best places in the park for:

Afternoon tea
Relaxation
Photography

Richmond Park Facilities & Amenities

While Richmond Park is intentionally natural, basic amenities are available:

Toilets near major car parks
Cafés and refreshment kiosks
Information boards
Accessible paths in selected areas

There are no playgrounds or amusement rides, maintaining the park’s natural character.

How to Reach Richmond Park London

By Train

Richmond Station
Kingston Station
Barnes Station

By Bus

Several London bus routes stop near park entrances.

By Car

Multiple vehicle entrances with parking inside the park.

Best Time to Visit Richmond Park

Spring

Blooming flowers
Birdsong
Fresh greenery

Summer

Long days
Ideal for picnics
Busy but spacious

Autumn

Deer rutting season
Golden foliage

Winter

Quiet atmosphere
Frosty landscapes
Clear views

Rules & Safety Guidelines

To protect wildlife and visitors:

Do not feed animals
Keep dogs under control
Use leads during deer season
No littering
No drones or fires

Richmond Park with Family & Children

Families enjoy Richmond Park for:

Nature learning
Wildlife spotting
Open play areas (informal)

Children should always be supervised due to wildlife.

Richmond Park vs Other London Parks

London is home to many beautiful parks, each offering a different experience. While parks like Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Green Park are popular for their central locations and attractions, Richmond Park stands out for its sheer size, wildlife, and untouched natural landscape. Below is a detailed comparison to help visitors understand how Richmond Park differs from other major London parks.

Feature	Richmond Park	Hyde Park	Regent’s Park	Green Park
Location	South West London	Central London	North West Central London	Central London
Size	Largest Royal Park in London	Large urban park	Medium-sized	Small
Wildlife	High (wild deer, birds, foxes)	Low	Moderate	Very Low
Natural Landscape	Wild grassland and ancient woodland	Manicured lawns and lakes	Formal gardens and open lawns	Mostly open grassland
Historical Significance	Royal hunting ground since 1637	Royal park with urban history	Designed royal gardens	Former royal hunting land
Family Attractions	Nature walks and wildlife viewing	Playgrounds and boating	Zoo and rose gardens	Limited
Best For	Nature lovers, wildlife, peaceful walks	Tourists and city sightseeing	Gardens and family visits	Quick relaxation breaks
Entry Fee	Free	Free	Free	Free

In summary, Richmond Park offers a countryside-style experience that is very different from London’s central parks. Visitors seeking wildlife, wide open spaces, and a quieter atmosphere will find Richmond Park ideal, while those looking for attractions, cafés, and iconic city views may prefer parks located in central London.

Park	Size	Wildlife	Entry Fee
Richmond Park	Largest	Very High	Free
Hyde Park	Large	Low	Free
Regent’s Park	Medium	Moderate	Free

Why Richmond Park Is a Must-Visit in London

Richmond Park offers something rare:

True wilderness
Deep history
Free access
Peace within a capital city

It represents London at its most natural and timeless.

Quick Visitor Information – Richmond Park London

This quick visitor information guide provides essential details for anyone planning a visit to Richmond Park London. It is ideal for first-time visitors who want an easy overview before exploring the park.

Location	South West London, United Kingdom
Park Type	Royal Park and National Nature Reserve
Total Area	Over 2,500 acres
Entry Fee	Free entry for all visitors
Opening Time	7:00 AM (daily)
Closing Time	Sunset (varies by season)
Best Time to Visit	Autumn for deer rutting season and scenic colours
Famous For	Wild deer, ancient trees, open grasslands, panoramic views
Main Attractions	Pembroke Lodge, King Henry’s Mound, wildlife viewing
Activities	Walking, cycling (designated routes), photography, picnics
Parking	Paid parking for cars; free for Blue Badge holders and motorcycles
Dog Policy	Dogs allowed under control; leads required during deer season
Family Friendly	Yes, with adult supervision around wildlife
Managed By	The Royal Parks

Frequently Asked Questions About Richmond Park London

Is Richmond Park London free to enter?

Yes, Richmond Park London is completely free to enter. Visitors do not need to buy any tickets or passes to walk, relax, or explore the park. Entry is free throughout the year, making it one of the best free attractions in London.

What are the opening and closing times of Richmond Park?

Richmond Park opens daily at 7:00 AM. Closing times depend on the season and daylight hours. During summer, the park usually closes around 8:00 PM, while in winter it closes at dusk, often between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM.

Is there any ticket price or entry fee for Richmond Park?

No, there is no ticket price or entry fee for Richmond Park. All visitors can enter the park free of charge. However, parking fees apply for cars using designated parking areas inside the park.

Why is Richmond Park famous?

Richmond Park is famous for being London’s largest Royal Park, its free-roaming deer, ancient trees, protected wildlife habitats, and stunning panoramic views. It is also a National Nature Reserve and has over 380 years of royal history.

Can you see deer in Richmond Park?

Yes, Richmond Park is home to around 600 wild deer, including red deer and fallow deer. The deer roam freely throughout the park and can be seen all year, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

Is Richmond Park safe to visit with children?

Yes, Richmond Park is safe for families and children, but adult supervision is essential. Children should be kept at a safe distance from wildlife, especially deer, and should not approach or feed animals.

Are dogs allowed in Richmond Park?

Yes, dogs are allowed in Richmond Park, but they must be kept under control at all times. During the deer breeding and rutting seasons, dogs should be kept on leads to protect both wildlife and visitors.

Is cycling allowed in Richmond Park?

Cycling is allowed in Richmond Park on designated roads and approved cycling routes. Off-road cycling is not permitted in order to protect wildlife habitats and natural landscapes.

What is the best time of year to visit Richmond Park?

Richmond Park can be visited all year, but autumn is especially popular due to the deer rutting season and colourful foliage. Spring offers blooming flowers, summer provides long daylight hours, and winter is peaceful with fewer visitors.

How long does it take to explore Richmond Park?

The time needed to explore Richmond Park depends on your interests. A short visit may take 1–2 hours, while a full exploration including walking, photography, and relaxing can take half a day or more.

Is there parking available at Richmond Park?

Yes, Richmond Park has designated car parks available to visitors. Parking is paid for cars, while motorcycles and Blue Badge holders can park free of charge.

Can you picnic in Richmond Park?

Yes, picnicking is allowed in Richmond Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and enjoy the open spaces. However, barbecues, fires, and disposable grills are not permitted.

What is Pembroke Lodge in Richmond Park?

Pembroke Lodge is a historic Georgian mansion located inside Richmond Park. It offers beautiful gardens, panoramic views across London and the Thames Valley, and a café and restaurant for visitors.

Is Richmond Park accessible for wheelchair users?

Richmond Park has some accessible paths, car parks, and facilities suitable for wheelchair users. However, due to its natural landscape, not all areas are fully accessible.

Can you visit Richmond Park in winter?

Yes, Richmond Park is open during winter and offers a quieter, more peaceful experience. Winter visits often feature frosty landscapes, clear views, and fewer crowds compared to summer months.

Final Thoughts

Richmond Park London is not just a park it is a living historic landscape and one of the most precious natural spaces in the UK. Whether you’re visiting for history, photography, wildlife, or simple peace, Richmond Park delivers an experience that few cities in the world can offer.

With free entry, centuries of heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty, Richmond Park deserves a place at the top of every London travel guide.

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