Today, we’re revealing our top 10 things to do in South West London. Whether you’re just visiting this varied and interesting part of the City or looking for ways to spend your free time, HomeViews can help. Of course, there’s always more to a place than meets the eye, and the boroughs south of the Thames are no exception. Beyond our hot picks, you’ll find several National Trust sites, plenty of golf courses, and excellent shopping amenities. Read on for an overview of the area’s biggest draws to plan an amazing day out.
Top 10 things to do in South West London
Raring to explore some of the fantastic diversions this vibrant area of the Capital has to offer? All engaging in their own right, our Top 10 contenders are in no particular order – simply pick what suits you. To learn more about each attraction, click on the link in each section.
1. Richmond Park
Even the most devoted city-slicker needs to recharge their batteries occasionally. The largest park in this part of London and a thriving nature reserve, royal Richmond Park covers a spectacular 2500 acres. Nature enthusiasts and curious children will love spotting the diversity of birds and beetles – and deer – that live amongst the ancient trees, rare grasses, and wildflowers.
But there’s more to the park than wildlife. Sports on offer include power kiting, horse riding, golf, and off-road cycling along the 7-mile Tamsin Trail. After all that excitement, why not refuel at Pembroke Lodge tea rooms? Afterwards, enjoy a peaceful amble around the Isabella Plantation woodland gardens or a spot of sightseeing from King Henry’s Mound. Is that St Paul’s Cathedral in the distance?
Head slightly further south to find Bushy Park, another of London’s eight Royal Parks. Here, red and fallow deer herds roam a historical landscape dotted with landmarks. One notable feature is the 12-mile man-made Longford River. It was constructed in the 1630s to supply water to Hampton Court – our next top attraction.
2. Hampton Court Palace
We recommend pre-booking to visit this ever-popular example of Tudor splendour. One of only two surviving palaces that belonged to the infamous Henry VIII, Hampton Court offers a glimpse into the highs and lows of his reign.
Visit the Great Hall to gaze in awe at the striking hammer-beam roof and spot Anne Boleyn’s coat-of-arms and initials. The Tudor kitchens also provide a fascinating insight into the engine that fuelled the court, while the beautiful gardens expand across 60 acres. Don’t get lost in the world’s oldest puzzle maze!
3. Kew Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ‘the most biodiverse place on Earth’. And with a mission centred around preventing the loss of plant species crucial to life, who wouldn’t want to visit?
Come to Kew to discover over 50,000 living plants, a lush valley of sandstone peaks and waterfalls, an arboretum filled with ancient trees and giant redwoods, and so much more. You’ll also get some great views of the London skyline from the Great Pagoda, while the kids will love a free 60-minute session in the wild children’s garden.
4. Jurassic Encounter Adventure Golf
Jurassic Encounter Adventure Golf is an intriguing concept that will engage children and parents alike by challenging motor skills and providing a glimpse into a prehistoric world. This 18-hole Jurassic-themed landscaped golf course features putting greens, waterfalls, and caves. And as the name suggests, there are plenty of near life-size moving and roaring predators to keep you company! They do kids’ parties too.
5. Wimbledon – Sports & Culture
No tour of South West London would be complete without a visit to one of the Capital’s most iconic sporting venues. Attracting half a million visitors a year to watch the oldest tennis Championships in the world, Wimbledon is part of the national psyche. The event is held at the privately-owned All England Club, but even if you can’t attend the matches, you can still tour the grounds and museum.
Those who enjoy a more theatrical kind of spectacle should also consider visiting the New Wimbledon Theatre. Since 1910 it has been entertaining its audiences with pantomimes, comedies, musicals, dramas and much more besides. This beautiful venue hosts various shows year-round, so there’s bound to be something on whenever you’re looking for things to do.
6. Wimbledon and Putney Commons
We’re not quite done with Wimbledon yet. We’re waxing lyrical about its glorious common, which extends across 1,140 acres of countryside. All this space is perfect for running, cycling, horse riding, golf, and long walks. The windmill museum is also home to an impressive collection of woodworking tools and offers hands-on experiences for children. There’s often a range of events spread throughout the year, so check ahead to avoid missing out.
7. Riverside wining & dining
If your idea of a great day out involves relaxing by the waterside with a drink in hand, then Putney is your best bet. From stylish cocktail bars to craft breweries and cosy pubs, you’re sure to find something to suit your style. Some local favourites include the Grade II listed Duke’s Head, which boasts an enviable riverside location and delicious Sunday roasts, and The Bricklayer’s Arms – a purist’s delight that stocks twelve real ales, Timothy Taylor beers, cider and English wines.
8. London Wetland Centre
A nature reserve dotted with hides tucked in a bend of the River Thames, the London Wetland Centre is a bird watcher’s paradise. Across its 105 acres, you’ll find a scattering of lakes and ponds, woodlands, and photogenic wildlife, including Asian short-clawed otters.
The centre often runs family-friendly events, guided walks, and exhibitions. The site gets the thumbs up for accessibility too – all the paths are flat, and the three-storey hide even has a lift. Don’t forget to pack a picnic – there are plenty of benches, plus hot food available at the Kingfisher Kitchen.
9. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo
If you’re looking for a way to keep the kids busy, take them to Battersea Park Children’s Zoo. Featuring a great variety of animals but still a manageable size, it’s easy just to pop in to spend a morning or afternoon here.
A regular programme of feeding and talks allows you to get to know the residents and engage children of all ages. While you’ll find refreshments and play areas on-site, the adjoining Battersea Park might also tempt you with its boating lake, gallery, and Go Ape Adventure course.
10. Strawberry Hill House & Garden
While you may not expect to find a restored Gothic castle in Twickenham, you’d be mistaken. Once home to the writer Horace Walpole, Strawberry Hill House & Garden is now home to an important collection of paintings and objects.
Its beautiful gallery and library are bound to impress, with each room introduced to visitors by knowledgeable stewards. The romantic Grade II listed garden is free to visit and is a fine example of the ideas that fuelled the English Landscape Movement. After your tour, stop by the café to recharge.
Now we have shown you the top 10 things to do in South West London, perhaps you’re also wondering if the area would be a great place to live. If so, make sure you check out our articles below.
HomeViews provides verified resident reviews of the UK’s housing developments. We’re working with developers, landlords and the Government to recognise high performers and help to improve standards in the built environment.
