Wimbledon to Richmond, 15 April

This is a linear walk and it is all within the Freedom Pass area. The train is as advertised on the programme, i.e. the 8.57 from Waterloo, arriving at Wimbledon at 9.13. When you arrive, take the exit signposted for Wimbledon Village, go through the ticket barriers and we’ll meet in the forecourt. If you wish to make use of the facilities, you’ll find the toilets before you go out of the ticket barriers down the steps near the entrance to the District Line platforms.

Summary of the Walk

We hope to see spring flowers, although spring does seem to be later this year. Fortunately, there is not much mud and it is easily circumvented.

After a walk on pavements up the hill to Wimbledon Village, we walk through Cannizaro Park and across Wimbledon Common to Richmond Park to see the Isabella Plantation. Then we cross Richmond Park to our lunch stop at Pembroke Lodge at the Cafe or for a picnic nearby. 

After lunch, we exit the park through Richmond Gate, go down through the Terrace Gardens to the River Thames and walk along the towpath until we turn off for Richmond Green and the train station. There are plenty of cafes and pubs in Richmond for those who wish to stay there longer. There are frequent trains back to Waterloo.

Dropout points

The leader is not aware of any easy opportunities for leaving the walk early by public transport. However, the walk is relatively short (7 miles) and is mostly flat with only two short uphill and one downhill sections, all on good surfaces.

Hazards

The main hazard is from cyclists on Wimbledon Common and in Richmond Park. So, please keep alert for them.

Terry