South West London

As the place-name designates, South West London is located in the south western part of Greater London. Not surprisingly, this area contains a number of outdoor spaces that provide venues for outdoor recreation. However, most of South West London is still composed of residential areas

Sights & Activities

One of its main outdoor destinations is the Battersea Park, which fronts the southern bank of the River Thames. There are several sporting facilities in the park that the public can use, such as tennis courts, football pitches, and a running track. A lake located in the southeast part of the park is also used for boating while picnics can be held at its edges. Children are entertained by a small zoo that they can explore. Among the items to look out for in Battersea Park are the Peace Pagoda and a bronze statue of a dog.

A short distance south of the park is the Clapham Common, which features three ponds that are used for fishing and another one for boat paddling. Its prominent landmark, however, is the bandstand that is located in the centre of the common. Constructed in 1890, it has recently undergone restoration along with the rest of the park. Clapham Common is also associated with the local gay community, being the venue of the annual Gay Pride Festival.

Located around three miles southwest of Clapham Common is the Wimbledon Park, which features a large lake in its southern part. The park is also adjacent to the tennis facility used as venue for the famous Wimbledon tennis match. A short distance away is the much larger Wimbledon Common, which contains a golf course.

Across the road from Wimbledon Common is the largest of the Royal Parks in London, the Richmond Park. Apart from its size, it holds the distinction of being the largest urban walled park in the continent. The gates of the park open during the day and private vehicles are allowed to explore the park at a leisurely pace. Several historic buildings are located within the park, such as the Thatched House Lodge, the Pembroke Lodge, and the Royal Ballet School. Visitors can also explore the King Henry VIII’s Mound, the park’s highest point and the vantage spot where scenic view of the St. Paul’s Cathedral in the City of London is enjoyed. Visitors to the park will likely encounter some deer that are living within Richmond Park. It is also home to other animals such as birds and rabbits, stag beetles, and other wildlife.

Another attraction located in South West London and worth mentioning is the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, an institution that is in the forefront of botanical research as well as a famous attraction all throughout England. Visitors can explore several of its conservatories, the library, and a herbarium. Among the highlights to watch out for is the Japanese temple replica, a Chinese Pagoda, a number of museums and galleries exhibiting works of art.

In the borough of Richmond upon Thames is the Hampton Court Palace which features the Hedge Maze and an ice rink on its grounds. The palace is also said to be haunted by ghosts of past royal occupants.

Eating Out

After exploring the attractions of South West London, there are a lot of dining establishments that visitors can head out to eat and relax weary feet in. A branch of the famous Strada chain of restaurants is located on Market Place in Kingston upon Thames while the Petersham Nurseries Café is located on River Lane in Richmond. Also located in Richmond is the Stein’s on Petersham Road which serve Bavarian dishes and the Origin Asia, which offers Indian menu along Kew Road. In Barnes there is also the Phoenix, situated along Lower Richmond Road.

Pubs in the area include The Cat’s Back on Point Pleasant and The Red Cow on Sheen Road in Richmond.