The weather here last week was dreadful. That and a tube strike in London on two days meant I had to change my plans both days and meet friends where we could both reach either by national rail or bus. That place ended up as Richmond.
The first visit was on the Tuesday. It was raining when I left home. My telescopic umbrella refused to go all the way up, so there I was trying to get my arms into a waterproof while walking to the station with my rucksack. I was not happy! Luckily, by the time I reached Richmond, the rain had almost stopped, and then it did.
We chose a short route from Richmond Bridge to Kew Bridge. It was a lovely walk, despite the overcast sky and the threat of more rain. A little way along, we encountered a path with a lot of puddles and lots of mud. It was a case of walking around the edges and trying not to get a foot full of water or mud.
This is a particularly nice walk as you have Old Deer Park (no deer!) on the right with a stream, and the Thames on your left. To the right, across the river is Syon House and Park. You can see both the boathouse and the house itself. The painter, J.M.W. Turner, rented a house nearby and painted scenes of the Thames.
At Kew we came off the path, eager to find somewhere to eat. The Cricketers was all we hoped and more. The staff were friendly, the pub had atmosphere, and the food was excellent. We lingered a long time over lunch and splashed out on a second cup of tea. We know how to live!
We decided to walk back the same way, as Richmond has more transport links. Gradually, the drizzle returned and then became heavier. At least most of the walk had been rain-free.
My second visit was on Thursday. This was a lunchtime meet in a cafe with a friend combined with a ‘free-write’ session. In my other life, I write short fiction and poetry.
Afterwards, we took a brief look at the river. The water had flowed over the banks in places, due to all the rain, and possibly a high tide. I believe I am right in saying that the River Thames becomes a tidal river from Teddington.
So, there we have it. Richmond has very pretty walks, and is close to Richmond Park. I wrote not long ago about a walk I took through the park, down Richmond Hill to meet the Thames. I am lucky to live close to such lovely and interesting walks.
My London+ 