How to Walk the Twickenham Riverside

The Twickenham Riverside is one of London’s most serene and historically rich walking routes, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle while immersing walkers in centuries of architectural heritage, natural beauty, and riverside culture. Stretching along the north bank of the River Thames between Richmond and Teddington, this path is more than just a pedestrian corridor—it’s a living timeline of English landscape design, rowing tradition, and community life. Whether you’re a local resident seeking daily exercise, a tourist exploring lesser-known gems of Greater London, or a history enthusiast drawn to the stories embedded in its cobbled paths and Victorian bridges, walking the Twickenham Riverside delivers both physical and cultural enrichment.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of the route, grounded in practical navigation, local insight, and environmental awareness. Unlike generic travel blogs that offer superficial tips, this tutorial is designed for those who want to experience the walk with depth—understanding its context, respecting its ecology, and maximizing its rewards. By the end of this guide, you’ll know not only how to walk the Twickenham Riverside, but how to do so thoughtfully, safely, and memorably.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Start Point: Richmond to Twickenham

The most popular and logistically convenient starting point for the Twickenham Riverside walk is Richmond. Begin at Richmond Station, where the District Line and South Western Railway converge, making it easily accessible by public transport. Exit the station onto the High Street and walk west toward the River Thames, following signs for Richmond Green and the riverside path. The path begins just beyond the historic Richmond Bridge, which dates back to 1777 and is one of the oldest surviving stone bridges across the Thames.

Once you reach the riverside, you’ll encounter a wide, well-maintained promenade lined with mature trees, benches, and interpretive plaques detailing local landmarks. This section, known as the Richmond Riverside, is paved with compacted gravel and asphalt, making it accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and bicycles. The path is clearly marked with wayfinding signs bearing the Thames Path National Trail logo—a white acorn symbol on a blue background—which you’ll follow for the entire journey.

2. Follow the Thames Path Toward Twickenham

From Richmond, the Thames Path continues westward along the riverbank. The route is consistently flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for walkers of all fitness levels. As you progress, you’ll pass several notable landmarks:

• Richmond Riverside Piers: These historic ferry landing points once served as vital transport hubs. Today, they’re used by leisure boats and the Thames Clippers commuter service.
• York House Gardens: A hidden gem behind the former mansion of the Earls of Holland. The gardens feature formal lawns, a Tudor-style gatehouse, and seasonal floral displays.
• The Old Deer Park: A vast, open green space once used as a royal hunting ground. The path skirts its southern edge, offering glimpses of fallow deer in the warmer months.

After approximately 1.2 miles, you’ll reach the entrance to the Twickenham Riverside section proper. The character of the path subtly shifts here: the trees become denser, the river narrows slightly, and the atmosphere grows more residential and intimate. You’ll begin to see rowing clubs and boathouses—some dating to the 19th century—lining the water’s edge.

3. Navigate the Twickenham Riverside Stretch

The Twickenham Riverside section runs from the western boundary of Richmond’s Old Deer Park to the eastern edge of Twickenham Bridge. This 1.8-mile stretch is the heart of the walk. Here, the path is bordered by elegant Georgian and Victorian villas, many with private gardens that spill onto the riverbank. The route remains fully paved and well-lit, with frequent seating areas and shaded rest spots.

Key points of interest along this stretch include:

• Twickenham Rowing Club: Founded in 1863, it’s one of the oldest rowing clubs in the world. Watch elite athletes train during early mornings or weekend regattas.
• The White Swan Pub: A historic riverside pub with a beer garden directly overlooking the Thames. A perfect spot for a mid-walk refreshment.
• St. Mary’s Church: Located just inland from the path, this 12th-century church is the burial site of many notable figures, including the poet Alexander Pope.

At approximately the 2.5-mile mark, you’ll pass under the A316 road via a pedestrian underpass. This is the only section where the path briefly leaves the riverbank, but signage is clear, and the underpass is well-maintained and safe. Re-emerge on the opposite side to resume the riverside trail.

4. Cross Twickenham Bridge and Continue to Teddington

At the western end of the Twickenham Riverside walk, you’ll arrive at Twickenham Bridge—a graceful, concrete structure completed in 1933. The bridge itself offers panoramic views of the river, especially at sunset. Cross it slowly to enjoy the vista: the river curves gently here, flanked by tree-lined banks and the distant silhouette of Teddington Lock.

On the far side, the path continues as the Teddington Riverside, but for the purposes of this guide, your Twickenham Riverside walk concludes at the bridge. If you wish to extend your journey, you may continue to Teddington (an additional 1.5 miles), where you’ll find the famous Teddington Lock and the Thames Path’s official endpoint at the Thames Barrier.

5. Return Journey and Transport Options

For a circular route, consider returning via public transport. Twickenham Station is a 10-minute walk from the bridge and offers frequent services to London Waterloo (15–20 minutes) and Richmond (5 minutes). Alternatively, the 33, 281, or R68 bus routes run along the riverfront, stopping near key landmarks. If you prefer to walk back, the return route along the same path is equally rewarding—especially in the late afternoon light, when the river reflects the golden hues of the surrounding architecture.

Best Practices

1. Choose the Right Time of Day

Timing your walk can dramatically enhance your experience. Early mornings (6:30–8:30 AM) offer quiet paths, mist rising off the water, and the chance to observe local wildlife—herons, kingfishers, and even the occasional otter. Midday walks (11 AM–2 PM) are ideal for photography, with the sun illuminating the river’s surface and casting soft shadows through the trees. Late afternoons (4–6 PM) are perfect for a leisurely stroll with the setting sun painting the Victorian facades in warm tones.

Avoid weekends during major rowing events (such as the Henley Royal Regatta or local club races), as the path can become congested with spectators and temporary barriers. Check the schedule of the Thames Rowing Club or the London Rowing Club before planning your visit.

2. Dress Appropriately for the Environment

Despite its urban setting, the Twickenham Riverside is a natural corridor. Weather can change quickly, especially near the water. Always carry a lightweight, water-resistant jacket, even on sunny days. Wear supportive walking shoes with good grip—while the path is paved, occasional wet leaves or algae near the water’s edge can be slippery.

In summer, apply sunscreen and bring a hat. The path offers partial shade, but extended exposure is common. In winter, layer your clothing and consider thermal socks. The riverbank can feel significantly colder than inland areas due to wind off the water.

3. Respect the Natural and Cultural Environment

This stretch of the Thames is a protected environmental corridor. Do not feed wildlife, including ducks and swans. Feeding bread can cause health problems for waterfowl and contribute to algae blooms. Avoid picking plants or disturbing nesting areas, especially between March and August.

Many of the riverside properties are private residences. Keep to the public footpath and avoid lingering near gates, driveways, or windows. Do not use drones or loud audio equipment. The tranquility of the area is part of its value.

4. Stay Hydrated and Carry Snacks

While there are cafes and pubs along the route, they are not evenly spaced. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at public fountains near Richmond Green or Twickenham Bridge. Pack light, non-perishable snacks such as trail mix, fruit, or energy bars. Avoid littering—there are bins at key intervals, but not all are emptied daily.

5. Use the Path Responsibly

The Twickenham Riverside is shared by walkers, joggers, cyclists, and wheelchair users. Always stay to the right side of the path unless overtaking. Announce your presence politely when passing—“On your left” is the standard courtesy. Avoid using headphones at high volume, especially near busy crossing points or where wildlife is present.

If you’re walking with children or pets, keep them under control. Dogs must be kept on a leash in designated areas, particularly near the water and in the Old Deer Park. Some sections are designated as “quiet zones,” where noise is discouraged.

6. Prepare for Accessibility Needs

The entire Twickenham Riverside path is wheelchair and pushchair accessible. The surface is smooth and continuous, with no steps between Richmond and Twickenham Bridge. Ramps are provided at all underpasses and junctions. Accessible toilets are available at Richmond Green and near Twickenham Station. For detailed accessibility maps, consult the Royal Borough of Richmond upon Thames website or the Thames Path National Trail’s official resources.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Maps and Apps

For accurate navigation, rely on official sources:

• Thames Path National Trail Map: Available for free download from the Thames Path website. Includes elevation profiles, access points, and points of interest.
• OS Maps App (Ordnance Survey): Offers detailed 1:25,000 scale mapping with offline capabilities. Essential for identifying minor footpaths and historical markers.
• Google Maps: Use the “walking” mode with “avoid stairs” enabled. It accurately tracks the riverside route and provides real-time public transport links.

2. Local Guides and Books

Deepen your understanding with these curated resources:

• “The Thames: A Walk from Source to Sea” by David G. H. Hume – A lyrical narrative that includes detailed chapters on the Twickenham section.
• “Richmond and Twickenham: A History of the Riverside Villages” by Margaret C. R. Smith – Explores the architectural and social evolution of the area.
• “Wildlife of the Thames” by the London Wildlife Trust – A field guide to birds, fish, and mammals you may encounter.

3. Audio Guides and Podcasts

For a hands-free experience, consider downloading audio tours:

• “Thames Walks” by BBC Radio London: A 15-minute episode focusing on Twickenham’s literary connections, including Alexander Pope’s villa.
• “Hidden London” podcast by the London Museum: Episode 42 covers the rowing heritage of the river.

4. Local Organizations and Volunteers

Engage with the community:

• Friends of the Twickenham Riverside: A volunteer group that organizes monthly cleanups and guided walks. Join their newsletter at www.friendsoftwickenhamriverside.org.
• Thames21: A conservation charity that monitors water quality and hosts educational events. They offer free river health workshops.

5. Weather and River Conditions

Check the Environment Agency’s real-time river level data at environment.data.gov.uk/flood-monitoring. While flooding is rare on this stretch, heavy rainfall can cause temporary path closures near low-lying areas. Also, monitor the Met Office’s 5-day forecast for wind and temperature trends.

6. Photography and Technology

For photographers:

• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water.
• Shoot during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most dramatic lighting.
• Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots of flowing water or night-time reflections.

For tech-savvy walkers:

• Use a GPS watch (Garmin, Apple Watch) to track distance, pace, and elevation.
• Enable location sharing with a friend for safety during solo walks.
• Download offline maps in case of poor mobile signal near tree cover.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Academic’s Morning Ritual

Dr. Eleanor James, a professor of English literature at King’s College London, walks the Twickenham Riverside every weekday morning. She began the ritual after writing a paper on Alexander Pope’s gardens and discovered the poet’s former villa is just 200 meters from the path. “It’s not just exercise,” she says. “It’s a form of research. I listen to audiobooks of Pope’s letters as I walk, and I’ve started noticing how the landscape in his poetry mirrors what I see outside my window. The willows, the curve of the river—it’s all there.”

Dr. James keeps a small notebook in her bag to jot down observations. She’s documented seasonal changes in bird migration patterns and the growth of ivy on historic walls. Her notes have been used by the local historical society to update interpretive signage.

Example 2: The Family’s Sunday Tradition

The Martins—parents Sarah and Mark, and their two children, aged 7 and 10—have walked the Twickenham Riverside every Sunday for the past three years. “We started because we wanted to get off screens,” Sarah explains. “Now it’s our favorite family time.” They bring a picnic blanket and stop at the White Swan for fish and chips. The children collect smooth stones from the riverbank and leave them in a jar at home.

Last year, they participated in a “Riverside Story Hunt” organized by the Friends of the Twickenham Riverside. Using a printed map, they found clues tied to local history and answered questions about the bridge’s construction and the rowing club’s founding. “My daughter now knows more about 19th-century engineering than I do,” Mark laughs.

Example 3: The Solo Walker’s Healing Journey

After losing her husband in 2021, Lisa Tran began walking the Twickenham Riverside alone. At first, she walked for just 15 minutes. Now, she walks 5 miles every morning. “The rhythm of the path became my rhythm,” she says. “The water doesn’t judge. The trees don’t ask questions. I could cry, or I could just be quiet.”

She started leaving handwritten notes in a small waterproof box near the Twickenham Rowing Club—a place she calls her “quiet chapel.” Others began adding their own notes. Today, the box contains over 200 messages of grief, hope, and gratitude. The local council has installed a small plaque: “In memory of those who found peace here.”

Example 4: The Tourist’s Unexpected Discovery

James and Mei, a couple from Singapore, visited London for the first time in 2023. They planned to see Big Ben, the Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. Instead, they wandered off the beaten path and found the Twickenham Riverside. “We didn’t know it existed,” Mei says. “But we stayed for four hours. We saw a swan with a baby, a man playing the violin on the bridge, and a woman painting the church. It felt like stepping into a painting.”

They returned the next day and walked the entire route. They now recommend it to every friend planning a trip to London. “It’s not touristy,” James says. “It’s real.”

FAQs

Is the Twickenham Riverside walk suitable for children?

Yes. The path is flat, safe, and lined with interesting sights—birds, boats, historic buildings—that engage young minds. Bring snacks, water, and a small activity book with river-themed puzzles. The White Swan has a children’s menu and a fenced garden area.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Some sections near the water and in the Old Deer Park are designated as “dog-free zones” during nesting season (March–August). Always clean up after your pet.

Are there restrooms along the route?

Public toilets are available at Richmond Green (near the station) and at Twickenham Station. There are no restrooms directly on the riverside path between these points. Plan accordingly.

How long does the walk take?

The full Twickenham Riverside stretch—from Richmond Bridge to Twickenham Bridge—is approximately 3 miles. At a relaxed pace with stops, it takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Without stops, it can be completed in 50–60 minutes.

Is the path safe at night?

The path is well-lit and patrolled by local wardens, but it is not recommended for solo walkers after dark. The area becomes quiet, and lighting is minimal in tree-lined sections. If you must walk at night, carry a flashlight and stay alert.

Can I cycle on the Twickenham Riverside path?

Yes. The path is shared with cyclists, but they must yield to pedestrians and slow down at crossings. Bicycles are not permitted on the narrow footpaths adjacent to some private gardens. Use the main promenade only.

Are there any entry fees?

No. The Twickenham Riverside is a public right of way and completely free to access. All landmarks, gardens, and pubs are independently operated and may charge for services, but the path itself requires no payment.

What’s the best season to walk the Twickenham Riverside?

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer is lively but crowded. Winter is quiet and atmospheric, with frost on the river and bare branches framing the architecture.

Can I take a boat instead of walking?

Yes. Thames Clippers and private hire boats operate between Richmond and Teddington. However, the walking experience offers unique access to hidden gardens, historical markers, and quiet moments that a boat cannot provide. Walking is the recommended way to fully experience the route.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, for personal use. Commercial photography or filming requires a permit from the Royal Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Always ask permission before photographing private property or individuals.

Conclusion

The Twickenham Riverside is not merely a path—it is a thread that weaves together nature, history, community, and quiet contemplation. To walk it is to move through layers of time: the Roman trade routes that once crossed here, the Georgian gentlemen who rowed for sport, the poets who found inspiration in its curves, the families who gather at its benches, and the wildlife that thrives in its margins.

This guide has provided you with the practical knowledge to navigate the route safely and respectfully, the insight to appreciate its deeper meaning, and the tools to enhance your experience. But the true value of the Twickenham Riverside lies not in the details of the path, but in what it offers to those who walk it with presence.

Slow down. Notice the way the light filters through the willows. Listen to the ripple of water against the stone banks. Feel the cool breeze that carries the scent of wet earth and distant blooms. Let the rhythm of your steps match the slow, steady flow of the Thames.

Whether you come for exercise, for solitude, for history, or for beauty, you will leave changed—not because the path is extraordinary, but because, in its quiet consistency, it reminds you of what it means to be human in a fast-moving world.

Walk with care. Walk with wonder. And carry the peace of the Twickenham Riverside with you, long after your feet have left the path.