Have A Vacation Fit For A King In Richmond - Surrey

Richmond - Surrey is a suburban town that lies just fifteen miles southwest of London right on the River Thames. A longtime favorite retreat of European royalty, today the lush landscape, lavish gardens and public parks draw tourists from all around the world.

Hampton Court Palace has a history that stretches back five centuries and it was a private playground for Tudor King Henry VIII who spent lavishly on the appointments including priceless artwork and opulent tapestries. People travel from far and wide to lose themselves in the elaborate garden maze on the grounds.

The bustling business district with its restaurants and bars can be found near the river. Easy access to businesses and residences is provided by the Thamesside walkway. Pathways and tracks are set along the waterline for cyclists, joggers and pedestrians to take advantage of.

Richmond Hill is located toward the south and Horse Reach is the stretch of water below that. Tourists can experience the water firsthand in a rented skiff or on the tour boat that departs hourly. This is also where Glover's Island is located.

Southeast of town lies the largest royal park in the land. Enclosed by Charles I for hunting purposes, it was designated a National Nature Reserve in 2000 and is listed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is home to herds of red and fallow deer.

Town center is concentrated around George and Hill Streets with their high end shops and designer boutiques. There are no indoor shopping malls in Richmond. The farmers market is held every Saturday with traders selling their wares including vegetables, baked foods, dairy products and meat. Narrow alleyways lead to The Green.

The main green has been the site of cricket matches, tournaments and archery contests since 1650 and attracts sunbathers and nature lovers whenever weather permits. Little Green is located opposite the Richmond Theatre. The Green offers access to Old Deer Park, 360 acres of lawns, municipal sports pitches and athletic grounds that reach all the way to the edge of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. Here is where you will find observatory built for King George III in 1769.

Wander down the Old Palace Lane to the riverbank and you will pass by Maids of Honours Row. These three story structures were built in 1724 and housed the royal wardrobe servants to the wife of George II.

To holiday in Richmond is to walk in the shadows of royalty. There are plenty of places to explore including the banks of the mighty River Thames, the royal forest and the palace grounds. The rich history has the ability to immediately transport visitors through time.