LONDON / RIVERSIDE WALK / 4-MILE ROUTE
London’s River Island Walk
A relaxed four-mile walk from Twickenham to Richmond, following the Thames past hidden islands, riverside gardens, historic bridges and Hammerton’s Ferry. Allow 2–3 hours, or longer for stops.
The route at a glance
Why this walking route is worth doing.
London’s River Island Walk links Twickenham and Richmond along a quieter stretch of the Thames, passing secluded islands, landscaped gardens, historic bridges and a historic passenger ferry. It feels surprisingly peaceful for a route within easy reach of central London.
The walk suits a relaxed half day. Allow extra time for York House Gardens, Marble Hill, Hammerton’s Ferry and the riverside cafés around Richmond.
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Route overview
A straightforward riverside walk with an easy rail connection at both ends.
Begin at Twickenham Railway Station and head towards the Thames near Eel Pie Island. The route then follows the river through York House Gardens and Marble Hill before using Hammerton’s Ferry when it is operating.
From the Richmond bank, continue past Glover’s Island and Richmond Bridge, then follow the quieter waterside sections around Corporation Island, Twickenham Bridge and Richmond Lock. Finish through Old Deer Park and Richmond Green before returning towards Twickenham.
If the ferry is not running, use a nearby bridge and allow extra time for the altered route.
Follow the route
1. Twickenham Railway Station
Begin outside Twickenham Station and walk down London Road towards the River Thames. The busy town-centre streets soon give way to a greener riverside setting.
2. Eel Pie Island viewpoint
Join the river near Eel Pie Island. The privately owned island is best appreciated from the riverbank, where the views reveal its unusual mix of waterside homes and artistic history.
3. Twickenham riverside
Follow the Thames along the peaceful promenade, passing rowing clubs, boathouses, riverside homes and regular views of swans and herons.
4. York House Gardens
Walk through the landscaped gardens and look for the well-known River Gods statues beside the ornamental pools.
5. Marble Hill
Continue through the open riverside grounds of Marble Hill. This is one of the best places on the route for a picnic and wide views across the Thames.
6. Hammerton’s Ferry
Use the passenger ferry to cross the Thames when it is operating. Check the current service before travelling because timings and weather conditions can affect crossings.
7. Glover’s Island and Richmond Bridge
On the Richmond side, follow the river past Glover’s Island towards Richmond Bridge. The cafés around this section make a useful refreshment stop.
8. Corporation Island and Cholmondeley Walk
Continue along the quieter waterside path for views across Corporation Island, rowing boats and the elegant riverside houses.
9. Twickenham Bridge
Pass beneath Twickenham Bridge and stay with the Thames as the river bends towards Richmond Lock.
10. Richmond Lock and Footbridge
Walk beside Richmond Lock and pause for views upstream and downstream from the footbridge area.
11. Old Deer Park
Leave the immediate riverside and cross Old Deer Park, watching for parakeets, herons and other wildlife.
12. Richmond Green
Finish around Richmond Green and its historic streets, cafés and pubs, then follow the mapped return towards Twickenham Station.
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If you think you’ve seen the best of the Capital, try London’s river island walks, as this route might change your mind. This scenic 4 mile takes you through some of southwest London’s most beautiful and overlooked spots, following peaceful stretches of the River Thames past hidden islands, elegant gardens, historic bridges and one of London’s oldest ferry crossings.
Perfect Walking route in London
Travel from Twickenham to Richmond
A hidden London walk with secret islands, riverside gardens, a historic ferry crossing, royal parks and beautiful Thames views
Perfect for a relaxed half-day adventure, this walk combines history, wildlife, waterside cafés and some of the capital’s most picturesque scenery.
River Island Walk Map
🍽 Picnic by the River
Key Stops
Along the way you’ll discover the mysterious Eel Pie Island, wander through the stunning York House Gardens, cross the Thames on the unique Hammerton’s Ferry, enjoy spectacular views from Richmond Lock, and finish by exploring the charming streets around Richmond Green before returning to Twickenham.
Table of Contents
Places to stay in London
📍 Route Overview
Distance: 6.4 km (4 miles)
Time: 2–3 hours (allow longer with stops)
Difficulty: Easy
Route Type: Riverside
Start: Twickenham Railway Station
Best For:
- Riverside walks
- Hidden London
- Families
- Couples
- Photography
- Wildlife
- History lovers
A). Twickenham Railway Station
Begin outside Twickenham Station before walking down London Road towards the River Thames.
Almost immediately the atmosphere changes from bustling town centre to leafy riverside streets, giving a taste of what’s to come.
B). Eel Pie Island Viewpoint
One of London’s best-kept secrets soon comes into view.
Although visitors generally can’t freely explore Eel Pie Island, the views from the riverbank are fantastic. The private island has a fascinating history, once hosting legendary music performances from artists including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd and David Bowie.
Today it’s a peaceful community of artists and residents hidden in the middle of the Thames.
Top Tip: Bring a zoom lens if you’re into photography.
C). Riverside Walk
Continue beside the River Thames on one of London’s most peaceful riverside promenades.
Expect:
- Narrowboats
- Swans and herons
- Rowing clubs
- Historic boathouses
- Beautiful riverside homes
It’s difficult to believe central London is only a short train ride away.
D). York House Gardens
One of the true highlights of the walk.
York House Gardens are beautifully landscaped with colourful flower beds, mature trees and one of London’s most famous hidden attractions — the incredible River Gods statues rising dramatically from the ponds.
This peaceful Victorian garden feels like a secret oasis.
Don’t miss: The famous stone statues.
E). Marble Hill
Continue through the beautiful riverside grounds of Marble Hill.
Built in the 1720s, Marble Hill House overlooks one of the prettiest stretches of the Thames and is surrounded by wide open parkland that’s perfect for a picnic.
The riverside here offers superb views across to Richmond.
F). Hammerton’s Ferry
One of London’s most unique river crossings.
This small pedestrian ferry has been carrying passengers across the Thames for well over a century and remains one of the capital’s hidden gems.
Cross the river here before continuing your adventure.
Top Tip: Check operating times before visiting, as the ferry doesn’t run all day or in severe weather.
G). Glover’s Island & Richmond Bridge
After crossing, continue along the Richmond riverside.
You’ll pass views across Glover’s Island before arriving at the beautiful Georgian Richmond Bridge — the oldest surviving Thames bridge in London.
The cafés here make an excellent coffee stop.
H). Corporation Island & Cholmondeley Walk
This quieter section of riverside path offers lovely views across another of the Thames’ hidden islands.
Following Cholmondeley Walk, you’ll enjoy peaceful waterside scenery, rowing boats and elegant riverside houses.
I). Twickenham Bridge
Continue beneath the impressive Twickenham Bridge.
The changing views of the Thames from underneath the bridge create some fantastic photo opportunities.
J). Richmond Lock & Footbridge
One of the engineering marvels of the River Thames.
Richmond Lock helps control the river’s water levels and includes a pedestrian footbridge giving spectacular views both upstream and downstream.
It’s one of the most interesting places on the walk.
K). Old Deer Park
Leave the riverside to explore the expansive Old Deer Park.
Originally created as a royal hunting park, today it’s a peaceful green space filled with mature trees, sports fields and plenty of wildlife.
Keep an eye out for parakeets, herons and kingfishers.
L). Richmond Green
Finish your adventure in one of London’s prettiest village greens.
Surrounded by historic buildings, independent cafés and traditional pubs, Richmond Green has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
It’s the perfect place to relax before making the short walk back to Twickenham Station.
🚗 Parking
If you’re driving, nearby options include:
- Arragon Road Car Park
- Holly Road Car Park
- Richmond Station Car Park
Public transport is highly recommended for this route.
☕ Places to Eat & Drink
You’ll find plenty of excellent options in both Twickenham and Richmond, including:
- Riverside pubs
- Independent cafés
- Traditional tea rooms
- Restaurants overlooking the Thames
Richmond especially has one of London’s best selections of riverside dining.
Recommended Places to stay in London
Summary
- Check Hammerton’s Ferry operating times before travelling.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a camera — there are fantastic river views throughout.
- Early mornings are wonderfully peaceful.
- Spring and autumn offer particularly beautiful scenery.
- Keep an eye out for swans, cormorants and colourful parakeets.
🍽 Picnic by the Canal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this one of London’s hidden walks?
Absolutely. Despite being close to central London, it combines peaceful riverside scenery, hidden islands, historic gardens and unique river crossings that many visitors never discover.
How long is the Twickenham to Richmond Riverside Walk?
The circular route is approximately 6.4 km (4 miles).
How difficult is the walk?
It’s an easy, mostly flat walk suitable for almost everyone
Can I do this walk with children?
Yes. It’s an excellent family-friendly route with plenty of places to stop along the way
Is the walk dog friendly?
Yes. Dogs are welcome throughout the route, though they should be kept under control around wildlife and busy riverside areas.
Can you visit Eel Pie Island?
Normally no. The island is privately owned, although occasional open days are sometimes held.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring, summer and early autumn are ideal, although the walk is enjoyable throughout the year.
Is the route accessible?
Most of the walk follows paved riverside paths. If the ferry isn’t operating, you’ll need to use one of the nearby bridges, which slightly alters the route.
Where Will You Explore Next?
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Explore Cornwall →Before you go
Practical information.
Ferry: Check Hammerton’s Ferry’s current operating information before setting out. If it is unavailable, use a nearby bridge and follow the live map for the adjusted route.
Surfaces and footwear: Much of the walk uses paved or firm riverside paths. Comfortable walking shoes are normally sufficient, although wet weather can leave park sections muddy.
Public transport and parking: Twickenham and Richmond both have railway stations, making public transport the easiest option. If driving, check current restrictions and charges at Arragon Road, Holly Road or Richmond Station car parks.
Families and dogs: The mostly flat route suits many families. Keep children and dogs close beside the river, roads and busy ferry landing.
Accessibility: Most of the riverside is paved, but the ferry, kerbs and any altered route may introduce barriers. Check current access information before travelling.
Food and drink: Twickenham and Richmond have numerous cafés, pubs and restaurants, with particularly good choices near Richmond riverside.
Terrain
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Accessibility
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Toilets and refreshments
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Dogs
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Safety
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Seasonal considerations
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
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Useful answers
London’s River Island Walk FAQs.
How long is London’s River Island Walk?
The circular route is approximately 6.4 km (4 miles) and normally takes 2–3 hours. Allow longer for the gardens, ferry and refreshment stops.
What if Hammerton’s Ferry is not running?
Use a nearby bridge and allow extra time for the altered route. Always check the ferry’s current operating information before travelling.
Is the walk suitable for families and dogs?
The route is mostly flat and suits many families. Dogs should be controlled and children supervised closely beside the river, roads and ferry landing.
Is London’s River Island Walk accessible?
Much of the route uses paved riverside paths, but the ferry, kerbs and any diversion may present barriers. Check current access information before setting out.
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