Private Richmond Park & Riverside Loop Hike, London

Get a taste of the English countryside without leaving Greater London with this gentle 7-mile walk around the riverside borough of Richmond. Accompanied by a private guide, you'll catch a quick train from Waterloo Station before setting off on foot for a scenic ascent up Richmond Hill. Continue into London's largest Royal Park to admire ancient oaks, herds of deer, and historic hunting lodges, and pause at King Henry's Mound for views of St Paul's Cathedral. End by following the river back to Richmond, passing colorful rowboats and the city's oldest bridge along the way.

This half-day adventure begins when you meet your private guide at Waterloo Station, where you'll board a quick 20-minute train to Richmond. Just 15 miles (24 km) upstream from London, this Thameside borough feels utterly removed from the city, filled with elegant Georgian terraces and surrounded by bucolic countryside views (and the endless expanses of Richmond Park). With the help of your accredited hiking guide, you'll set off on a three-hour, 7-mile (11 km) loop that traverses urban streets, well-maintained walking trails, and riverside towpaths.

Start with a stroll through Richmond's village-like center as your guide explains its Tudor foundations and points out historic highlights, then ascend Richmond Hill. Immortalized by artists like Turner and Reynolds, this famous spot overlooks sweeping river meadows and a gentle bend in the River Thames; on a clear day, you can see as far as the Surrey Hills and Windsor. Pause at the top to take in the painterly vistas and learn why it's the only view in the UK that's protected by an Act of Parliament. 

Next, your guide will lead you through the gates of Richmond Park. Hear how this 2,500-acre (1,012 ha) preserve was created by Charles I as a royal hunting ground, and see the herds of red and fallow deer that still roam its open meadows and ancient oak groves. Cut across the park's center to spot the diverse birdlife of Pen Ponds, then loop back to Pembroke Lodge, a wisteria-draped 18th-century manor where you can break for a packed lunch (not included) or refresh with some tea and cake at the on-site café. 

After lunch, don't miss a stop at King Henry's Mound, looking through the telescope for a perfect view of St Paul's Cathedral in the distance. Then it's time to exit the park and make your descent through Terrace Gardens to reach the Richmond Riverside. This final stretch follows the Thames towpath back toward Richmond, passing bobbing rowboats and willow-lined banks before ending at the graceful arches of Richmond Bridge. From here, you'll return to Richmond Station, where you'll board the train to Waterloo and part ways with your guide.