This is a walk I have done many times over the years, well to Hampton Court anyway. Last week I ventured out on public transport for the first time since early March. I’d taken stock of buses and trains and how empty they were and decided I was happy now to use them. I had my face covering ready.
The day was hot, but it hadn’t reached the 30c of later in the week. The walk began at Kingston Bridge and followed the pathway all the way to Hampton Court Palace. Home Park (a lovely park I’ve also walked) is on the right. I’m sure at one time it was possible to enter Hampton Court gardens from there, but these days there is a railing at the end of Long Water to stop that.
Although the Palace is still shut, I knew that the gardens were due to open and I had thought it would be a good place to stop and eat my sandwich. However, the gates were closed. An official looking man was standing around so I asked him what the situation was. He said the gardens were only open Wednesdays to Fridays and tickets had to be booked online (though the gardens are free). He also added that it wasn’t easy to get hold of tickets at the moment. I could imagine that everyone and his wife wanted a change of scenery after being cooped up for so long. In fact a friend of mine tried to get online tickets for a National Trust garden and all the tickets went in half an hour!
Instead it was a short hop over the road and Hampton Court Bridge and down onto the other side of the river. Shortly, there was Molesey Lock (cafe closed), but no place to sit. There were a lot of people here too. Perhaps it was more noticeable because the path is more narror here. Finally, I came across a small children’s park (play equipment still sealed), with benches. There was a nice shady place under a tree, far enough from the overflowing rubbish bin to suffice. This was a cool spot in which to relax. Afterwards it was a short walk to Hampton Court Station for the train. The train was almost emptuy – no one in the carriage I was in at first, and never more than two or three people afterwards.
It was lovely to go somewhere different, even though it’s a well trodden path for me. Do have a look at the websites of the Palace and Home Park for more information and some lovely photos.
Empty train carriage
I realise I took no photos of the Palace on this walk, though I would have had to take one through the railings. Anyway, so as not to disappoint you, I’ve delved into the archive for the one below.
My London+ 