Bushy Park

Welcome to Bushy Park, the second-largest of the eight Royal Parks, covering a staggering 1,100 acres. As we stand here, just north of Hampton Court Palace, it is easy to see why this space is often described as a 'hidden…

We begin our exploration on Chestnut Avenue, a 'mile-long' road designed by the legendary architect Sir Christopher Wren in the late 17th century. This grand vista was intended to provide a formal approach to Hampton Court…

At the end of Chestnut Avenue stands the Diana Fountain, a 'lovely bronze 17th-century' monument that is the centerpiece of the park. The fountain features the Roman goddess Diana, the goddess of the wilderness, standing atop a…

As we move into the more open areas of the park, we encounter the 'remarkable wildlife,' specifically the herds of red and fallow deer. There are currently around 320 deer in Bushy Park, and their 'grazing is essential' to…

Entering the Woodland Gardens, we find ourselves in an 'ambient' and 'intimate space' that is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). These gardens are full of 'really interesting plants,' including the 'Big Cone Pine' or…

Near the center of the Woodland Gardens is the Pheasantry Cafe, a 'lovely little cafe' offering homemade cakes, ice creams, and 'tasty coffee'. It is a 'perfect place to unwind' after a 'high energy' walk or run through the park. …

Finally, we visit the Upper Lodge Water Gardens, a 'rejuvenated' area that features a series of formal pools, cascades, and 'picturesque' views. These gardens were originally created in the 1710s for the 1st Earl of Halifax and…

As our walk through Bushy Park comes to a close, we return to the 'tranquility' of the main gates. We have traveled from the 'mile-long vista' of Chestnut Avenue to the 'hidden wilderness' of the Woodland Gardens, witnessing the…