Once you’ve spent a day weaving between dog-walkers wandering the riverside, cyclists parking up for post-ride pints and rowers hauling their sculls, you’ll quickly grasp Richmond’s crowning as London’s happiest borough (something locals will be more than pleased to profess), and embrace its village-like atmosphere. And though Jason Sudeikis et al have been busy putting it on the international map, plenty of places remain untainted by the influx of Ted Lasso-loving crowds.
So, whether you’re deer-spotting in Richmond Park, browsing boutiques, pitching for picnics on the green or stopping for scenic sips along the river, our Richmond guide is here to shine a light on the places hiding off the high street…
THE BEST BRUNCHES AND SWEET SPOTS
With walks high on the wishlist, you’ll need to start with some sustenance and No.1a Duke Street serves all-day brunch with a bang. Buttermilk pancakes with all types of toppings (we’re eyeing lemon curd labneh), eggs any which way and build-your-own brioches are served in its fairy-lit courtyard between 9am and 4pm. If you’re seeking something a little lighter, Megan’s menu of Mediterranean-inspired meals draws crowds to the Old Town Hall on Hill Street.
Come afternoon, the aroma from local bakeries fills streets, so be sure to seek out the pick of the pastries – at Petersham Nurseries, awarded a green Michelin Star for its Earth-kind fare, is where you’ll find the locals. Hidden off Church Lane, just over the hill, the garden centre’s teahouse serves cakes, coffees and cinnamon swirls among hanging bougainvillaeas. In the adjoining greenhouse, walls of seedlings are yours to browse and a restaurant is set for idyllic evenings under the vines.
If you’ve been busy walking your way through Terrace Gardens, stop off at the quaint Hollyhock Café or head down to Brewers Lane, where Danieli has the scoop on homemade gelato.
THE BEST BOUTIQUES AND BLOOMS
You’ll find plenty of big names along George Street, but we’d recommend veering off into the lanes and alleys for some of the smaller boutiques. At the end of Duke Street, Margaret Howell sells her well-heeled British designs and hand-selected homeware.
Saunter down to Feather & Stitch, along King Street, where you’ll have your pick of Scandi-style brands, including Stine Goya, Custommade and Summery Copenhagen. The Duck Pond Market sets up artisan clothing stalls every weekend, between 11am and 4.30pm, in Heron Square. And if it’s page-turners you’re after, the Open Book and Books on the Rise have exceedingly browsable shelves.
Blooms blossom at Amanda’s Flowers, where bespoke batches are made up within the bustle of Richmond’s central square. A little up Hill Street, Bramble & Moss uses locally picked flowers for decadent displays and floristry workshops.
THE BEST RICHMOND RESTAURANTS
Get on board with Aussie-inspired fare at Peggy Jean, Richmond’s riverside kingpin. Fresh fish and chargrilled goods are served alfresco along the deck of a pimped-in-pink boat, and classic cocktails are shaken behind the cabin’s marble-capped bar. Get your ducks in a row and be sure to book, Peggy’s tables fill quickly.
If you’re fancying a little extra flash, Mayfair’s famed Scott’s has landed a new riverside outpost, with live jazz every Wednesday and a terrace with Turner-worthy views over the Thames.
On Red Lion Street, Matsuba serves contemporary Japanese cuisine against exposed brick walls and dark-toned booths; sushi, maki and tempura take centre stage come evening, but bento boxes are ready to grab-and-go for lighter lunches. A few doors down, menus are a thing of the past at family-run, Venetian dining spot, Al Boccon Di’vino, where chefs choose six traditional Italian courses on your behalf.
THE BEST PUBS AND BARS
London’s riverside is famed for its picturesque pubs and Richmond certainly has some serious spots to boast. Pulling pints since 1741 and home to the only view protected by an Act of Parliament, the Roebuck sits at the top of Richmond Hill – stop by at sunset and ask for your drink to-go for the best view point from Terrace and Buccleuch Gardens.
For tipples at high tide, the White Cross’s riverfront spot means waiters serve to tall tables in wellies and pub-goers are bound to their beers until the evening tide retreats. A fraction further along the river you’ll find charming gastropub the White Swan, although it’s set back far enough to avoid the need for wellies.
Back down Brewers Lane, the Britannia serves all the Great British classics in its coiffed courtyard, and just opposite, So Bar pours cocktails with a twist, hosts drink-making masterclasses and kitchen pop-ups, where local chefs showcase polished plates.
THE BEST HOTELS
At the foot of the hill, and backing onto the Thames, sits Bingham Riverhouse with regal interiors by Nicola Harding, handmade beds set for scenic slumbers, and a priceless private Thamesside garden. Just across the borough borderlines, in neighbouring Chiswick, is High Road House – the furthest west outpost (in London, anyway) of the sprawling Soho House empire.
Where to next? Explore our full list of London hotels