Richmond possesses a timeless charm more akin to a village than a town. Henry VII named Richmond after his favourite Earldom, Richmond in Yorkshire, and the gateway of his magnificent Palace, favoured by Elizabeth I, still remains. This can be found on Richmond Green, once the scene of tournaments and pageants, surrounded by elegant period houses.

Richmond Bridge, the oldest spanning the Thames, sits alongside a riverside development which evokes memories of the 18th and 19th centuries.

The view from the top of Richmond Hill, across the Terrace Gardens, Petersham meadows and the River Thames has been a source of inspiration for artists and poets throughout the years. It has been protected by an Act of Parliament since 1902. The Gardens were formed in the 1880s and were then extended to the river about 40 years later. The Terrace Gardens have recently been restored and are now a tranquil and relaxing area to enjoy. From here Ham House, an outstanding Stuart House filled with rare 17th century furniture and textiles, is visible slightly up river. Below, the River Thames flows through an ocean of trees with rowing boats and passenger craft wending its way upstream. Beyond the hill lies the 2,500 acre Richmond Park, enclosed by Charles I as a favoured hunting ground, where large herds of red and fallow deer wander freely. For a free interactive map from the Royal Park click here.

Richmond shopping centre offers an enticing mix, bringing together top designer names with small specialist and antiques shops.

A lively cultural calender offers the finest entertainment outside central London, with many West End shows previewing at Richmond Theatre and at the exciting Orange Tree Theatre, with seating ’in the round’.