One of London’s most leafy and upscale neighbourhoods, Richmond combines a genteel atmosphere with easy access to the bright lights of the capital. Bordering the River Thames in the southwest of the city, it’s renowned for its riverside pubs, great restaurants, and high-quality Georgian and Victorian houses. Local attractions including the stunning Kew Gardens, with its huge Arboretum and 17th-century palace, draw visitors from far and wide, while eclectic shops and a distinguished theatre add to the local flavour.
While accommodation options in Richmond are not as plentiful as in more central districts, there are still a fair number to choose from, ranging from affordable B&Bs to larger establishments with plenty of amenities. If you’re looking for somewhere with a dash of character and panache, there are a handful of stand-out options. We’ve whittled them down to five of the best – and here they are.
FROM £119/ NIGHT
Benefitting from a recent major refurbishment, this beautiful boutique hotel right on the River Thames is as charming as it is stylish. Just fifteen guest rooms ensure a cosy, intimate feel, with each room offering their own luxurious touches, whether it’s classic Art Deco-inspired interiors, hand forged copper bath tubs, or elevated views of the river. Elsewhere in the hotel, a relaxed, friendly eatery offers all-day simple cooking with a local flavour. For drinks, an elegant, homely drawing room features ample seating at a long marble counter or high oak table – ideal for leisurely cocktails – and there’s also a library and parlour room. A for the local area, golf fans will enjoy the proximity of 6 golf courses within a short drive away and Richmond Park is also easily reached by car. Richmond Tube Station is a 15-minute walk away.
FROM £83/ NIGHT
Set within a refined Georgian country house directly next door to beautiful Richmond Park, this 4-star hotel combine a great location with a lovely setting. There’s some top quality amenities too, including an acclaimed on-site restaurant, a separate charming terrace eatery, a state-of-the-art spa, an indoor pool and hot tub, a sauna and steam room, and a gymnasium. Guest rooms are luxuriously furnished and come with air conditioning, tea/coffee-making facilities, and a TV, and some also have four-poster beds. Kew Gardens is a 15-minute drive away and, for rugby fans, Twickenham Stadium is just 10 minutes by car too. Richmond Tube Station is about a mile away.
FROM £99/ NIGHT
A modern health club complete with swimming pool, sauna & steam room, fitness centre and sun deck is perhaps the stand-out feature of this 4-star hotel. It also has a desirable setting opposite Richmond Terrace, where guests can relax and unwind while soaking up views of the gushing River Thames. Guest rooms are well-appointed, each with a TV, work desk, tea/coffee-making facilities and private bathroom. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Richmond Park is a matter of minutes away on foot. For guests with their own transport there’s free on-site parking, and for arrivals by air Heathrow Airport is a 20-minute drive away.
FROM £117/ NIGHT
Well-situated for riverside or meadow walks, this refined 4-star hotel is a haven of tranquility. Housed in a striking 19th-century Victorian building, the hotel offers luxurious rooms, free WiFi, free parking, and top quality cuisine in its award-winning restaurant. Guest rooms are designed in individual style in harmony with the property’s character and decor, and each room comes with a safe and LCD TV, while some also offer river views. Richmond Station is less than a mile away, providing quick access to the rest of the city. For visitors arriving from overseas, Heathrow Airport is also a short drive away.
FROM £169/ NIGHT
For visitors planning a trip to the magnificent Kew Gardens, this hotel just north of Richmond is perfectly positioned, putting you seconds away from the world renowned botanical gardens. As for the hotel itself, there’s an on-site gastro-pub restaurant serving international cuisine and a comfortable bar where regular live music and other events take place. Boutique-style guest rooms are stylishly designed and feature a private bathroom, Nespresso coffee maker, iPod docking station and flat-screen TV. Free WiFi is available in all areas of the hotel. Other notable local attractions include the National Archives and the famous Wimbledon tennis venue.
