Fancy a slice of country life without leaving the city? This is how to spend a weekend in Richmond.
Richmond, the Thames-side suburb just 30 minutes from central London – and a stunning corner of the capital – is home to much-loved nature spots such as Richmond Park and Kew Gardens.
Perfect for those who hanker after a serene break, these are some of our favourite places to stay, eat, shop and explore in the leafy London suburb, including local recommendations and newcomers in the neighbourhood.
STAY
Bingham Riverhouse
Think British, boutique and “home away from home” and Bingham Riverhouse ticks all the boxes. Run by powerhouse female owner Sama Trinder, it also features a vibrant private members’ club with an ever-changing line up of events that champion inspiring women. The hotel is so discreet it’s easy to walk straight past – it announces itself with very little fanfare apart from a plaque on the brickwork. Once inside it’s another story; friendly staff welcome guests like family, and with just 15 bedrooms it feels like staying at a stylish friend’s home. For a tranquil experience, choose the Best River Room with luxurious king-sized beds, walk-in rainfall showers, plenty of mod cons, and the ultimate indulgence – a Catchpole & Rye copper bathtub with a view of the river. Breakfast is a thoughtfully curated buffet accompanied by hot dishes such as a full vegan, and classics such as pancakes and eggs Benedict cooked to perfection. There’s a homely feel throughout with plenty of nooks to relax in with a book and cocktail. Make time to explore the zen garden too, where the Yoga, Gong + Mantra session by bhuti (the eco wellbeing escape founded by Sama) in the riverside domes is not to be missed!
Harbour Hotel Richmond
This restored 18th century Georgian property is perfectly located at the top of Richmond Hill, just a short walk from Richmond Park. Rooms are beautifully stylish with pops of orange soft furnishings, gold accent lighting, sofas, and artwork of local wildlife. Some of the bathrooms are an impressive size, with monsoon showers and equally impressive mirrors – although a vanity mirror for makeup touch-ups would be a great addition. Glass-roofed Gate Restaurant has a terrace with heaters and – staying true to the hotel’s name – a fish theme. The hotel’s à la carte breakfast is an impressive affair with a smorgasbord of seasonal ingredients plus cereals, muffins and freshly squeezed juices (the homemade lemon and poppy seed muffins were the morning treat we never knew we needed). Standout here is the spa, which features a 20-metre swimming pool, bijou steam room and sauna, plus a spa garden with outdoor hydro pool and Scandinavian hot tubs.
EAT + DRINK
Scott’s
The Mayfair institution has long enjoyed an illustrious reign but now its little sister, the equally glamorous Richmond outpost, is stealing the spotlight. A-list guests flock here to admire the glittering dining rooms in gorgeous gold shades, magnificent chandeliers, beautifully curated art and a rooftop terrace with river vistas. There’s a buzzy atmosphere most days, and the gilded bar is a popular spot for after work drinks and catch ups. The menu is extensive, and the fish choices are unsurprisingly excellent: from the robatta grilled octopus to start proceedings to the Dover sole meunière with butter sauce accompanied with chipped potatoes, minted garden peas, buttered carrots and confit shallots. The presentation is exceptional, and look no further than the Amalfi Lemon for a dessert – it’s a work of art.
Peggy Jean at Riverside Green
Brunching on a Thames barge doesn’t get much more boujee than Peggy Jean. This summer terrace gives Richmond riviera vibes and while regulars flock here throughout the day, it’s especially popular for brunch. The Aussie menu doesn’t take any prisoners; it’s packed with largely healthy favourites such as The Bondi (think a cooler Full English with fennel sausage and charcoal sourdough) and the scrumptious Fancy Bacon Roll with paratha, crispy bacon and poached egg topped with holy f*ck hollandaise. Those with a sweet tooth aren’t left out either, opt for the award-winning banana bread sandwich or fluffy buttermilk pancakes. Grab the girls to people watch while enjoying an exquisite menu of classics-with-a twist-and some sparkling bubbles.
Riverhouse Restaurant
South African-born chef Vanessa Marx is a woman on a sustainability mission. She took over the revamped restaurant at Bingham Riverhouse in January 2024 and has already created a stir with her “seasonally changing menu in a more relaxed and approachable atmosphere.” Sunday lunch, especially, is a game-changer. Book ahead to snare a prized table at the restaurant or on the sun-filled terrace as patrons devour quintessential roasts with a modern twist. Think hearty roast portions (there’s a fish option too) with the obligatory Yorkshire pudding and delicious seasonal vegetables. Drinks are exceptional; discover new favourites with a wine pairing. Finally, don’t miss the star dessert – the wonderfully moist orange and almond cake.
Rock & Rose
One of Richmond’s much-loved haunts, this fabulous, female-owned restaurant has an eclectic style – think oversized indoor plants, striking mirrors, bamboo-print wallpaper and quirky antiques. With excellent service, feel-good disco, soul and funk music, and a beautifully curated menu of east meets west, it’s no surprise it’s a hit. Menu favourites include the duck tacos, halloumi and fig salad, blackened miso cod, BBQ glazed pork ribs and sticky toffee pudding (don’t be shy to ask for more toffee sauce!). Having previously scooped Best Bar and Best Cocktails accolades, they have an excellent reputation for bespoke signature cocktails such as Richmond Royale (gold infused gin and elderflower liquor) and Rock & Rose (vanilla infused vodka, fresh passion fruit and a shot of champagne) and they don’t disappoint. It’s glamorous, it’s fun and it’s the all-day dining spot that dares to be different.
Where To Relax
50 Hill Rise
This stylish wellbeing retreat on Richmond Hill is the place for some indulgent downtime. There’s an impressive list of classes, treatments and workshops on offer including Pilates, yoga, reflexology and a wonderful, Reiki and Somatic Healing class. One of the most exciting new arrivals is the partnership with Murad, the US-founded beauty brand known for their results-focused facials. Book the signature Rest & Refresh for a 60-minute deeply relaxing massage, followed by the 30-minute brightening facial (which worked so well I received multiple compliments about my glowing skin days later). A real labyrinth beyond its pretty reception and a new nail bar complete with comfy sofas, 50 Hill Rise is a place you could disappear into for a day and emerge a healthier, happier human. Great energy, nourishing treatments, friendly staff and an in-house café with organic treats all lend to its appeal.
What To Do
Kew Gardens
There’s a reason why Kew Gardens is one of London’s best-loved spots. The capital’s only UNESCO World Heritage site is home to over 50,000 plants, and is a dream for nature lovers. Wander around and then take time to refuel with a traditional afternoon tea or a long lunch at Botanical Brasserie, opposite the 19th Century Palm House. This charming venue, with service to match, feels like a slice of decadence within the sprawling 3,000-acre grounds. Plants are the main stars of the simple but delicious botanical menu, which changes monthly as they celebrate the produce in the Kitchen Garden: you might be spoilt with wild mushroom risotto, roasted cauliflower or even a roasted fillet of sea bass. The cream tea is a must-have with freshly baked scones arriving warm to the table. For drinks, stay true to the theme with the Marianne cocktail featuring Kew Gin, and the Kew Series by Laithwaites comes highly recommended.
Richmond Park
Fancy a weekend stroll or a scenic cycle in one of London’s most stunning parks? The Tamsin Trail around the perimeter of Richmond Park covers over seven miles, so it’s especially popular with local joggers and families on days out. The main attraction is the roaming deer – don’t be alarmed if you spot these majestic beauties, just admire from afar. Venture up to King Henry’s Mound to take in sweeping London vistas including St Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard. Stay for sunset, it’s spectacular to watch the suburb drift asleep amidst the vibrant colours in the sky.
Where To Shop
Alongside the high street’s cult favourites such as Sweaty Betty and Oliver Bonas, locals flock to cool cafes, quirky stores and fashion boutiques like Feather & Stitch. While Marylebone has Daunt Books, Richmond has quaint Books on the Rise which stocks old school vinyl and has quickly become a thriving arts hub for creatives. Don’t miss the Duck Pond Market at Heron Square every weekend – it’s a fantastic treasure trove for artisans and sells everything from flowers to jewellery, crafts and home baked treats.
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