Bushy Park — London’s Royal Deer Park Retreat

Nature and History in Harmony

Just north of Hampton Court Palace, Bushy Park is one of London’s most serene green spaces.
Covering over 1,000 acres, it combines open grasslands, formal gardens, and tree-lined avenues with centuries of royal heritage.

Here, you’ll find grazing deer, historic monuments, and peaceful ponds — all just a short journey from the heart of London.

A Royal Landscape with Ancient Roots

Bushy Park’s origins stretch back to medieval times, when it served as farmland before becoming a royal hunting ground under Henry VIII in the 16th century.
The park’s long, straight avenues were later laid out during the reign of Charles I, creating the grand landscape we see today.

In addition, Christopher Wren’s Chestnut Avenue — designed to frame Hampton Court Palace — remains one of the most striking features in any royal park.

Exploring Bushy Park
1. The Water Gardens and Diana Fountain

At the park’s heart lies the Diana Fountain, a striking bronze statue surrounded by a circular pool designed by Wren in the 1600s.
Nearby, the Upper Lodge Water Gardens blend cascading pools, fountains, and flowers in an elegant, peaceful setting.
Together, they form the park’s most picturesque focal point.

2. Woodland Gardens and Wildlife

The Woodland Gardens provide a calm, shaded area with ornamental plants and quiet streams.
Here, ancient oaks and chestnuts provide shelter for red and fallow deer that roam freely across the park.
Moreover, you might spot kingfishers, herons, and foxes — proof that nature thrives even this close to the capital.

3. Sports and Recreation

Bushy Park isn’t only about history and tranquility — it’s also a hub for recreation.
Cyclists, joggers, and families enjoy its wide paths, while anglers cast lines in the park’s ponds.
Furthermore, the park hosts the original Parkrun, a free weekly 5km run that started here in 2004 and became a global movement.

Learn more at the Royal Parks official website

A Park of Reflection and Renewal

During World War II, Bushy Park served as a base for Allied forces.
General Eisenhower’s headquarters for the D-Day landings were located here — a reminder that even peaceful places can hold powerful history.
Today, the park remains a sanctuary where past and present blend seamlessly.

Its open skies, quiet paths, and free-spirited wildlife make it one of London’s most uplifting escapes.

Visiting Bushy Park
How to Get There

Address: Bushy Park, Hampton Court Road, London TW12 2EJ

By Train: Hampton Court, Teddington, or Hampton Wick Stations.

By Bus: Routes 111, 216, 411, 285 stop nearby.

By Car: Several car parks within the park (free).

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily, 24 hours; free entry.

Facilities

Visitor information points

Toilets and cafés

Step-free access and wide paths

Picnic and play areas

Nearby Attractions

Hampton Court Palace: Tudor palace of Henry VIII.

Richmond Park: Another vast royal deer park nearby.

Kingston upon Thames: Riverside shopping and dining.

Kew Gardens: World-famous botanical collection.

Together, they form the Royal Parks & Palaces Trail.

Why Visit Bushy Park?

The Bushy Park experience combines royal history, open landscapes, and natural beauty in perfect balance.
It’s a place to walk, reflect, and reconnect with the outdoors.

Whether you’re watching deer, relaxing by the Diana Fountain, or jogging under the trees, Bushy Park captures the timeless charm of London’s royal parks.

It’s not just a park — it’s a living landscape of peace and heritage.