Bushy Park

Bushy Park, located in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, is the second largest of London’s eight Royal Parks. Covering around 1,100 acres, it offers a variety of beautiful natural landscapes to explore, including woodlands, gardens, and ponds. The park was used as a favourite hunting spot of King Henry VIII, who lived next door at the impressive Hampton Court Palace, and you can still find over 300 red and fallow deer roaming freely around the park. Much of the park feels untouched by time or civilisation, a tranquil world away from city living (while still only about half an hour from central London!).

Bushy Park offers plenty for families looking for a great day out. Parents wanting to show their children the wonders of nature can take them along the Longford River or into the Waterhouse Woodland Gardens with its cascades, pools and waterfalls. Have lunch in the Pheasantry Cafe or take a picnic anywhere in the natural landscape (just watch the deer don’t get to it first!). Alternatively, set the kids off in the Bushy Park Playground or take them to see some history in the landscaped gardens surrounding Sir Christopher Wren’s famous Diana statue. For those interested in history, a visit to the Upper Lodge Water Gardens is a must, where restored Baroque water features provide a glimpse into the park's past. For anyone wanting a deep dive into the history of Bushy Park and its abundant wildlife, there are free monthly tours led by volunteers.

There are also plenty of opportunities to get active; runners flock here every Sunday for one of the most picturesque Parkruns in the whole  country. On any other day there are plenty of great running routes in Bushy Park including the 10K perimeter trail, a mix of pavement and tracks. Additionally, you can play tennis, football, cricket or bowls at the Bushy Park Sports Club, which also has a fitness gym and the heated Hampton Pool.