Enjoy a few drinks on a pub terrace overlooking the river next to one of London’s oldest working river crossings.
Reaching across a wide section of the River Thames are the majestic arches of Richmond Bridge. This stone structure spans 300 feet (91 meters) and is surrounded by a gentle grassy slope and scenic woodland. Capture photos of this fine example of 18th-century architecture, with the bridge’s two sides rising slightly to meet in the middle.
Walk to the structure’s elevated center and admire the views of Richmond’s peaceful surroundings. Spot the tree-covered terrain of Corporation Island, the riverside buildings of Richmond and a flurry of boats on the water. An elegant balustrade flanks the two sidewalks next to vehicular lanes running along the bridge. See the crossing at night, when its classic lanterns illuminate it.
On the Richmond side are restaurants and traditional pubs with sloping terraces overlooking the water. Inspect the bust of the first head of state of Chile, Bernardo O’Higgins, who studied in Richmond in the late 18th century. Enclosing the sculpture is grassy O’Higgins Square.
Cambridge Gardens borders the southwestern end of the bridge. Join sunbathers and picnickers on these serene grounds. Rent a vessel from the Richmond Bridge Boathouses on the north side of the bridge to take out on the river.
Learn how the bridge was designed by architect James Paine in the late 1700s as a replacement for a ferry crossing. This service included a smaller vessel for passengers and a so-called horse boat that transported goods, light carts and horses. Note that the bridge was initially steeper and narrower, before renovations made it suitable for modern transportation in the early 1900s.
Vandalism on the bridge in the early days was planned to be punishable by a seven-year exile to the U.S. colonies, but American independence before the bridge was completed meant this punishment never occurred.
Richmond Bridge crosses the River Thames at the southern end of Richmond in the southwestern suburbs of London. Ride the Tube to Richmond Station and walk southwest for 10 minutes to get here. Explore the area for other sights such as Richmond Green, Richmond Theatre and the Museum of Richmond.
