The Historical Sites Hunter
A 6km route designed to take you to five iconic historical sites, some dating back to 1602.
A 6km route designed to take you to five iconic historical sites, some dating back to 1602.
Richmond has been part of English history for over five centuries, and this route is built to show you why. It crosses Richmond Green, passes the old Richmond Palace Gatehouse, and takes in some of the area's oldest corners, an easy ride with plenty to stop and read up on along the way.
This route stays mostly within Richmond itself, crossing Richmond Green, skirting the Old Deer Park and weaving through some of the town's oldest streets. It's flat and easy, with good tarmac throughout and no real climbing at all. Richmond Green can be busy on sunny days with picnickers and cricket matches in summer, so expect to slow down and weave a little there, but the Old Deer Park stretch is usually much quieter. This is as much a history lesson as a bike ride: expect Tudor brickwork, centuries-old gateways and streets that have barely changed shape in hundreds of years, all easy to take in at a gentle pace. Both bikes handle this route with ease; the Cruiser / Hybrid's upright position makes it easy to look up at the buildings as you go.
Weekday mornings or afternoons are best if you want the Green to yourself, it's a popular spot for cricket and picnics on summer weekends. Overcast days actually suit this route well, the old brickwork and gatehouses photograph beautifully in soft light, and you won't be fighting the crowds that come out for sunny weekends.
There's not much specialist gear needed here, just comfortable shoes if you plan to hop off and explore any of the sites on foot for a closer look. It's worth bringing a phone or camera, there are some genuinely photogenic spots along the way that are easy to miss if you're not looking out for them.
The route takes in sites dating back as far as 1602, alongside several other centuries-old landmarks. We send the full list, with a bit of background on each, as part of your itinerary once you book.
Yes, it's an easy, flat ride that works well for families, and there's plenty to keep curious kids interested along the way. Child seats and helmets are available on request.
Absolutely, your bike comes with a lock at every stop, so you're free to hop off, take a closer look and read up on anything that catches your eye before carrying on.
Book your bike and we'll send you the complete itinerary for The Historical Sites Hunter: every stop, in order, with Google Maps links to get you there. This page is just the teaser, the real route comes with your booking.