Richmond in the south west of London is a lush, green and historically significant neighbourhood surrounded by beautiful parks. The area was founded in 1501 when King Henry VII built Richmond Palace, named for his Earldom in Richmond, Yorkshire. The palace is a site of immense historical significance as it was not only home to King Henry VII, but also to Queen Elizabeth I during the latter years of her life.
Richmond is a thriving modern community with many outstanding restaurants, pubs, cafés, and independent shops, and Richmond Park Golf Club is always available for the stunning courses established by the Prince of Wales in 1923 and the Duke of York in 1925. This is a tranquil and alluring part of London and is well worth a visit. In the list below, we explore some of the best hotels on offer in the area.
Bingham Riverhouse
Bingham Riverhouse is not just a hotel—it is also a restaurant, a tea house, and an events space—but they do accommodate one so well you’d be forgiven for thinking it was their only endeavour. This boutique hotel has only 14 rooms, each named for a work by Michael Field, the name under which writers Edith Cooper and Katherine Bradley published their work when they lived in the house between 1899 and 1910. The hotel carries on the literary theme with many of their décor choices, with Penguin classics lining many of the walls. Bingham Riverhouse also offers a touch of modern and understated luxury with artisan sustainable room dressings and copper baths and walk-in showers. The hotel is located right on the River Thames with stunning views and a riverside garden in which you can enjoy afternoon tea or perhaps a cocktail on a warm summer’s evening, or even in the winter when they set up heated igloos on the banks of the river.
The Petersham Hotel
This exquisite hotel was built in 1865 and looks out over Richmond and the city of London from a slightly elevated position, meaning it has astonishing views of the parks, the countryside, and the city in the distance. The hotel is nestled alongside Petersham Meadows and you can see the Thames from your window—a rather rare thing in the hustle and bustle of the city. The Petersham Hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of Richmond Park and Kew Gardens, so if you want to see some of the natural beauty Richmond has on offer then this is the perfect location for you. There is a restaurant located within the hotel and parts of the hotel can also be hired for private events such as weddings. The location and the views are the real draw here, not the facilities, but The Petersham Hotel is an elegant and comfortable venue for your trip to Richmond.
Richmond Hill Hotel
This stunning Georgian hotel blends a highly contemporary style with traditional Georgian features. It is conveniently located near Richmond Park and the River Thames. This beautiful historic building has housed many famous figures over the years, including royalty and actors, like Lord Onslow, the Countess of Mansfield, and David Niven. The refreshed modern décor pays homage to the long history of the building while also introducing all the features we have come to expect from hotels, such as a gym, WIFI, and coffee machines and media units in rooms. The bar at the hotel is known for its astonishing selection of gins and gin cocktails, and these are well-worth a try during your stay. There is a delightful restaurant on site and breakfast is included. The corridors and stairs are quite narrow, however, so this hotel may not be the best fit for those with reduced mobility.
Richmond Harbour Hotel & Spa
Part of the Harbour chain, this hotel is located in the north west of Richmond and is set in an exceptionally well-appointed Georgian building. As the hotel is also a spa it is fitted with everything you might expect from such a facility, including a pool, a sauna, a steam room, and a gym. The rooms are homely and comfortable, and the Gate restaurant draws on the beautiful glass houses at Kew Gardens, creating a botanical feeling that is unique to Richmond. The restaurant and the breakfast offerings are particularly strong for vegetarians, plus there is a spa garden with an outdoor hydro pool, Scandinavian hot tubs and thirteen treatment rooms for those wanting the full spa experience. The Richmond Harbour Hotel & Spa is conveniently located near many of the major sites in Richmond but is also a great option for those looking for an ultra-relaxing getaway.
Coach & Horses Hotel
If you are looking for a more down-to-earth kind of stay, the Coach & Horses Hotel is a fantastic option. Styled in the fashion of a traditional English Inn—with all the modern comforts—this charming hotel has really created a buzz for itself in Richmond. It is located just off the green in Kew, near the village pond and the celebrated Royal Botanic Gardens. There is a pub downstairs with a library nook to one side of the building where you are invited to sit and enjoy yourself around a wood-burning stove. The rooms have all the amenities you could ask for and are stylishly decorated. Downstairs in the pub you will find good food and a large beer garden, perfect for a summer visit.
