Richmond-Kew

Eccentric Gothic home of 18th century poet and author, Horace Walpole, son of England's first prime minister.

Exhibitions on Richmond's history.

The Duke of Lauderdale's elegant 17th century manor house, a mile or so upriver from Richmond riverside.

Was home to King George II's mistress, with well-manicured lawns by the riverside.

Richmond Palace

Remains of the once-magnificent palace, home to English kings since Edward I, adjoins Richmond Green, a pleasant open green space and historic cricket ground. Only the Gate House and Wardrobe, now converted into flats, remain.

Historic home to English kings such as Henry VIII, now open to the public. There are many attractions which can occupy a whole day visit, including 60 acres of gardens with the famous maze, the Tudor kitchens, the Chapel Royal, the Great Hall, Mantegna's Triumphs of Caesar paintings, and various exhibitions about Henry VIII.

The largest open space in London, covering almost 1,000 hectares 2,500 acres and home to a huge array of wildlife, including 400 wild deer. Also contains the Royal Ballet School, seen in the film Billy Elliot. Popular with cyclists, both for the on-road perimeter circuit and the off-road trails. There are several car parks for walkers and picnickers.

Richmond Hill

The view from the top of the hill between Friar Stile Road and Nightingale Lane is protected by an act of parliament and takes in the river, the meadows at the bottom of the hill. Much painted by JMW Turner. Well worth the short walk up the hill and it is on the way to Richmond Park if you are walking from the town.

Twickenham Stoop

Across the road from the main Twickenham Stadium is this smaller stadium capacity about 15,000, popularly known as "The Stoop". It serves as home to one top-level team in each form of rugby football. Harlequin F.C., (http://www.union.quins.co.uk) usually referred to as "Harlequins" or simply "Quins", are one of England's most historic rugby union 15 a side clubs and currently play in the Aviva Premiership, as well as domestic and European cup competitions. They are affiliated with a rugby league 13 a side club of more recent vintage, Harlequins Rugby League (http://www.league.quins.c...) aka "Harlequins RL" or "Quins RL". The latter club play in Super League, a competition primarily contested in England that also includes a club from France.

The second largest of the London Royal Parks, covering an area of 450 hectares 1,099 acres. Lying north of Hampton Court Palace, the history of of the park is inextricably linked to the palace, yet it has always had its own distinct rural character.

Kew Bridge

Fine stone bridge linking Brentford/Chiswick with Kew.

Kew Green

Large lawn, split in two by Kew Rd, with St. Mary's Church, Kew Cricket Club and pubs set on or near it.

The National Archives

are four minutes walk from Kew Gardens Station. The route is clearly sign-posted. All non-classified government documents can be read and photographed here, with a free reader's card having been obtained. There is also a small museum, which does not require a card to access.