Richmond upon Thames Hotels

Boat trips

Travelling by river is a fantastic way to see many of the attractions in the area, which include Marble Hill House, Ham House and Hampton Court Palace. On a boat trip you can relax, have a drink and something to eat, and let the world go by. Ideal for children too, a river trip is a must-do on your Richmond get-away.

Kew Gardens

At the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, 326 acres contain the world's largest and most diverse collection of living plants, with over 30,000 plant types represented. You'll see the world's oldest living pot plant in the Palm House, ten climatic zones in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, ranging from steamy rain forest to arid desert, and mountain terrain plants in the Davies Alpine House. Quite a trip for the whole family, there's also a choice of four eateries – two cafés and two restaurants.

Turner's house

The unique Sandycombe Lodge in Twickenham was designed and built by the great landscape painter and architect J.M.W. Turner, in 1813. Open to the public on the first Saturday of the month from April to October, it's great value at only £4 per adult.

Marble Hill

Marble Hill, with its 66 acres of riverside parkland, is the last of the elegant villas erected on the Thames between Richmond and Hampton Court in the 18th century. Designed by a circle of fashionable aesthetes, including the poet Alexander Pope, work began on the house in 1724 for Henrietta Howard, mistress of King George II. The architecture and associations make this villa of great local, national and international importance, and the interior of the home is quite spectacular. Soak up the heady atmosphere of fashionable Georgian life on Saturdays and Sundays at £7 per adult.

Eat and drink

There are so many sights and things to do in Richmond, including shop till you drop! So here are some well-chosen places for you to relax and unwind in.

How about sampling the warm and friendly atmosphere, traditional Italian food and the finest wines at Al Boccon di'vino, which translates as ‘a divine mouthful'? Enjoy the freshest pasta, the finest cheese and meats imported from Italy, fish to die for and desserts that you could only otherwise experience in Venice itself – Bellissimo.

The Prince's Head is a beautiful Richmond pub, serving up hearty fare and well-kept ales. With its location being right on Richmond Green, it's a great spot for a summer drink, and it's one of the best pubs for food too.

Whatever your budget, there are so many Richmond upon Thames hotels to choose from, you'll be spoilt for choice.