Christmas in Richmond, London

Christmas is magical all throughout London, but there is something special about the village charm of Richmond that sets it apart from the busier lights of central London. It feels a little bit like stepping back in time, but it also feels like a lived in and well loved community that really embraces the Christmas spirit. From beautiful shopfronts to charming wreath displays on the houses and even to decked out stately homes, Richmond has some of the most beautiful holiday destinations in London, which is why I recommend it even if you only have 2 days in London during Christmastime.

Richmond shops and alleys at Christmas time

Richmond is full of beautiful shopfronts and charming alleyways during Christmastime. Paved Court, pictured, is one of the most iconic Richmond scenes and is lit up with glittering lights during the holiday season. Other small independent shops, like The Open Book, are charmingly decorated for Christmas.

For shopping, here are some of my favourite Richmond shops:

• Toast for cosy clothing

• Bramble & Moss for plants and flowers

• The Curated Man and the Curated Woman for independent fashion

• Mary’s Living and Giving Shop for curated charity shop finds

• Anthropologie, of course

Wreath watch on the houses near Richmond Green

There are countless beautiful houses in Richmond that are decked out for the season, but most tastefully and classically. It’s a great area for wreath watching. I suggest walking along Richmond Green toward The Wardrobe and Old Palace Yard, making sure to visit the cottages on Old Palace Lane.

Winter walks in Richmond, London

Richmond Park is refreshing in the brisk winter air, and there are many beautiful walks to enjoy in the park. Try walking near King Henry’s Mound, or past the White Lodge, now home of the Royal Ballet School. I also enjoy walking near Pen Ponds and Richmond Lodge.

Outside of the park, walking to Richmond Hill to enjoy the view over the Thames is an iconic London scene.

Walking along the riverside is also idyllic, perhaps between Richmond town centre and Ham House.

Christmas at Petersham Nurseries

Petersham Nurseries is one of the most popular stops in Richmond because of its charming shop, cafes and restaurant inside the greenhouses. There are always beautiful objects to discover in the shop, and it is even more beautiful at Christmas time. The restaurants are stunningly beautiful with greenery growing inside, and the afternoon tea with the bouquets of flowers in the tea stand might just be the most stunning one in London. There is also a more informal cafe to enjoy when here. I always enjoy popping in, even if just to look around as it is quite expensive.

Christmas at National Trust’s Ham House

Ham House is a National Trust property along the river in Richmond. It’s a Tudor house with a fascinating history entwining its owners with the English Civil War. At Christmas time, the house is decked out in tradition decorations, complete with dried oranges and cinnamon hanging from the garlands on the balustrades. I love visiting National Trust properties at Christmas for the authentic Christmas decorations they display—it’s a little bit of Christmas magic. For more stately homes to visit during Christmas, see my guide.

Richmond is wonderful at anytime of year. If you are visiting at another time, be sure to check my guide to Richmond, London.

I also have many more tips for spending Christmas in London, including Christmas lights walking routes. Check out my opinionated guide to Christmas in London for my own personal tips for visiting.

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