Stay Here, Do That — Richmond & Kew Family Neighborhood Guide
If you want London without the frenzy, Richmond and Kew are where families breathe. Think riverside walks, wildlife in Richmond Park, world-famous Kew Gardens, and neighbourhood cafés where children are actually welcome. This guide shows you how to base your family in this calm corner of southwest London without missing the big city moments.
Quick Trip Tools
- London flights near Heathrow (perfect for Richmond/Kew).
- Car rentals if you’re doing day trips like Windsor or the Surrey Hills.
- Richmond & Kew tours including river cruises, bike routes, and Kew Gardens experiences.
- Family travel insurance through SafetyWing.
Plan Your London Trip
Match this guide with your full London plan:
Why Richmond & Kew Work So Well For Families
Richmond and Kew are where London slows down. Instead of dense crowds and neon, you get Georgian townhouses, a wide riverside path perfect for strollers, world-class green spaces, and one of the most impressive botanical gardens in the world. This is London’s “exhale,” loved by locals for its open spaces and gentle family rhythm.
For families, the biggest advantages are space, safety, and a calmer sensory environment. You can spend a morning exploring Kew Gardens, let kids run wild at the Children’s Garden, wander the river for wildlife spotting, and still be in central London in under 30 minutes via the District Line or Overground.
Where To Stay In Richmond & Kew With Kids
The Petersham — Historic river views
Built in the 1860s overlooking the Thames, The Petersham is one of Richmond’s most elegant stays. Many rooms have sweeping river views, and the walk to Richmond Park is gentle and scenic. Families enjoy bigger rooms than central London typically offers.
Kew Gardens BandB — Homey comfort steps from Kew
A warm, family-run stay that feels more like visiting relatives than checking into a hotel. Rooms are cosy, breakfast is excellent, and you are just a short walk from Kew Gardens’ main gates.
Richmond Riverside Apartments — Best for longer stays
If you want kitchen space and room for kids to unwind, these serviced apartments near Richmond Bridge are ideal. Walk to parks, cafés, the Overground, and the river in minutes.
Top Things To Do In Richmond & Kew With Kids
1. Kew Gardens
One of the most important botanical gardens on earth. Kids love the Treetop Walkway, the glasshouses, the climbing structures, and the huge Children’s Garden (timed entry).
See tours & tickets:
Kew Gardens tickets.
2. Richmond Park
Wild deer roam freely through this massive royal park. Ideal for picnics, bikes, or just wide-open space after long flight days.
3. Thames Riverside Walk
Gentle, stroller-friendly, and scenic. Walk from Richmond Bridge toward Petersham Meadows or stop at cafés overlooking the river.
4. Hampton Court Palace (easy day trip)
A short train ride away. A huge hit with kids for the maze, courtyards, and costumed interpreters.
Tickets:
Hampton Court tours.
5. Richmond Theatre
Family-friendly shows in a gorgeous Victorian building.
A Slow, Beautiful Family Day In Richmond & Kew
Start with breakfast near Kew Green, then enter Kew Gardens when it opens. Hit the Treetop Walkway first before it crowds. Spend up to two hours exploring Children’s Garden, Temperate House, and the glasshouses.
After lunch (either inside Kew or at a local pub), take the train to Richmond for a riverside afternoon. Let kids run in the wide meadows near Petersham, then grab gelato by the bridge.
End the day with a quiet dinner close to your hotel or a simple picnic by the river.
Where To Eat in Richmond & Kew
Hollyhock Café
A beautiful vegetarian café perched on the river path. Ideal for soups, cakes, coffee, and simple friendly meals with kids.
The White Cross
Classic British riverside pub in Richmond. Great for fish and chips, pies, and hearty family plates.
Orleans Riverside
Excellent mix of American-inspired comfort food and brunch dishes. Very family friendly.
Maison Bleue
Lovely French café and bakery in Kew. Great pastries, baguettes, and light lunches.
Getting Around Richmond & Kew
Use the District Line (Kew Gardens station) or the Overground (Richmond). Trains run frequently and get you to central London without transfers. Buses fill the gaps easily. If flying into Heathrow, this is one of the quickest areas to reach by taxi or pre-booked car.
Safety & Cultural Etiquette
Richmond and Kew are among the safest, most family-oriented areas in all of London. Normal city awareness is enough. Dress is casual, parks are well maintained, and locals are used to children everywhere.
Best Time To Visit Richmond & Kew
Spring and summer are spectacular for Kew Gardens and riverside walks. Autumn brings golden leaves and gorgeous photography opportunities. Winter is quiet but still peaceful if you love long, brisk walks and cosy pubs.
Link Richmond & Kew To Your Bigger Trip
Use this guide alongside:
• Ultimate London Family Guide
• Attractions Guide
• Neighborhood Guide
• Logistics Guide
Some recommendations may use partner links that help support Stay Here, Do That at no extra cost to you. I only include options I’d consider for my own family.
© Stay Here, Do That — created for families who wander where the river runs slow.
