Follow UK immigration to get a taste of life in the UK: Here, it is a gift from the great nature; here, there are relics of glorious history everywhere. It boasts the longest and most beautiful riverbank in all of London, and it is home to the largest and wildest park in London. This is Richmond, a haven where Londoners "escape" the city.
A Former Royal Hunting Ground
City life can easily make one feel numb: the bustling streets, the smoggy subways, the neon-lit West End of London, and the mottled high streets. Fortunately, Londoners love nature and parks. There are 9 royal parks open to the public in London, and of course, only Richmond Park is a true haven.
More than 500 years ago, British nobles were keen on riding horses and whipping through the mottled jungles, galloping over the boundless grasslands, and striving to chase herds of deer... Charles I created this wild deer park in 1634, with an area equivalent to more than 1,200 football fields—Richmond Park. Today, it is home to 630 red deer and fallow deer and has become a national nature reserve. Of course, do not try to be a hero; chasing deer now will result in a fine.
In the boundless Richmond Park, there are residences of various sizes, all of which were once habitats for royal nobles during their hunting trips. Pembroke Lodge, with its Georgian architectural style, reached its heyday in the 19th century. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, as well as nobles and literary figures including Dickens and Thackeray, all stayed here. Through its unique wide view, one can overlook the small villages on both sides of the River Thames and the beautiful sunset. Today, Pembroke Lodge has become a very popular restaurant, offering exquisite English afternoon tea. This unique beautiful scenery and first-class service make it the most romantic wedding venue.
A Livable Paradise by the River Thames
Stroll to Richmond Street by the river, and you can admire the Georgian architectural complex and the Thames landscape protected by national policy. On one side of the street are distinctive and neatly laid-out residences, and on the other side is a sycamore-lined path. Looking into the distance, you can see the winding River Thames, looming and extending into the distance through the lush woods. Comparing 18th-century photos with the scenery in front of you, every tree and every plant seems to remain intact, as if time has stood still, just like yesterday.
Richmond was once rated as one of the happiest places to live on the island of Great Britain. The high quality of life here and the breathtaking scenery have also attracted many celebrities to stop and stay. It is said that after Brad Pitt filmed "World War Z" in the UK, he was reluctant to leave his temporary residence in Richmond, so he spent a large sum of money to buy that property. The former residence of the Rolling Stones lead singer, Downe House, is also on this street. This area began to prosper and expand officially in the 19th century. These houses, which have preserved historical memories and are conservative yet luxurious, along with their surrounding picturesque scenery, have been listed as a protected area by the British Parliament.
I walk on the path covered with soft fallen leaves, enjoying the rare London sunshine, smiling at the dog walkers and parents pushing strollers passing by, and greeting the elderly sitting on benches enjoying their ale. Birds jump on the branches from time to time, and sometimes skim across the corner of the long bench like dragonflies, guiding the eyes of passersby like little elves. I remember that the British poet William Wordsworth mentioned a rumor in a sonnet about Richmond in 1820: a beautiful orchard far outside England inspired the exceptionally beautiful singing of a nightingale. But he disagreed, because he insisted that the nightingales in Richmond, London, had voices as beautiful as heavenly music.
Witnessing the Past and Present
Richmond Bridge is the only surviving and oldest stone arch bridge on the River Thames in London. It was built in the 18th century and connects the county of Richmond with the county of Petersham on the opposite bank. It is a witness to history, and the starting point for the flotilla of Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012 was right here.
Walking down from the east side of the bridge, you will find the bustling commercial area of Richmond. It has two theaters, which makes the people living in Richmond very proud. If you are a loyal fan of drama and opera, Richmond Theatre is definitely a better choice. "See the shadow before you see the real thing"; there, you can even see previews of the latest performances that have not yet been released in London's West End. This place is also full of various small bars. If you have watched the movie "The World's End" and also want to try drinking your way down a street with friends, one pint per bar, come to Richmond to make your dream come true.
Tips:
1. After arriving at the Richmond train/subway station, take bus 371 at the entrance and get off at the American University station. Walk forward 50 meters and turn left to reach Richmond Park.
2. Late autumn and early winter are the breeding season for deer, so be sure not to get too close to the herds.
3. The weather in London is changeable. In the wilderness, besides wearing waterproof shoes, it is best to bring an umbrella just in case.
