Things To Do
in Hampton
Hampton is a leafy riverside suburb in southwest London within the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, offering easy access to central London and plenty of outdoor space. It sits on the Bank of the River Thames and is bordered by Bushy Park and the historic Hampton Court area nearby. The area combines quiet residential lanes, family-friendly parks, and riverside pubs with access to cultural sights and easy day trips.
It’s a relaxed base for exploring both London and the surrounding heritage landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Hampton, taking in the charming architecture and quaint shops that line the streets. Stop by a local café for a traditional English breakfast, complete with tea and scones. Visit the Hampton Court Palace where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and beautiful gardens that surround this iconic building.
After your palace visit, enjoy a guided tour of the gardens, learning about the various plant species and their historical significance. Spend some time at the nearby Thames Path, where you can walk along the river and enjoy the scenic views. Grab lunch at a riverside pub where you can savor local dishes while watching the boats glide by.
As the sun sets, head back to the historic center for an evening of exploration. Discover a cozy restaurant that serves seasonal dishes and local wines, providing a true taste of the region. End your day with a stroll along the Thames, taking in the peaceful ambiance of the river at twilight.
Dedicate your morning to the magnificent Hampton Court Palace, where you can explore its stunning interiors and learn about its royal history. Join a guided tour to get insights into the lives of the Tudor kings and queens who once lived here. Don’t forget to visit the famous kitchens, where you can see how meals were prepared in Tudor times.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the vast and beautifully landscaped gardens of the palace, including the renowned maze. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds, surrounded by the lush greenery and floral displays. You can also take part in seasonal events or workshops that are often held in the gardens.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at one of the nearby restaurants that offer views of the palace. After dinner, consider attending a historical reenactment or live performance that takes place within the palace grounds, adding a unique touch to your evening. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk back through the gardens, reflecting on the royal history you’ve experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $3-6 |
| 🛒Basic groceries (milk, bread, eggs) | $8-15 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to central London with easy access to major sights
- Beautiful riverside setting, parks, and family-friendly attractions
- Can be pricey due to London-area costs
- Nightlife options are more limited in Hampton itself; require short trips to nearby towns for more variety
Places to Visit in Hampton
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic views of the palace silhouette along the river, especially near the bridge and riverside lawns.
Open green spaces with roaming deer, framed by trees and winding paths—great for candid wildlife shots.
Historic cottages, floating boats, and calm water reflections in a tranquil riverside setting.
Classic river crossing with the palace grounds in the background; good for sunset compositions.
Cobbled lanes and classic English architecture with a quaint village vibe.
Food in Hampton
Hampton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy battered fish with chunky chips, often served with mushy peas or tartar sauce at riverside pubs.
Must-Try!
A traditional fry-up with eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, toast, and often black pudding.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, usually accompanied by tea in charming cafes.
A light dessert of strawberries, cream, and meringue, often found on bakery or cafe menus.
A rich, moist sponge cake with toffee sauce, a popular British dessert in pubs and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market area with fresh produce, baked goods, and occasional street food stalls on weekends.
Popular markets along the river offering local bites, crafts, and seasonal treats a short ride away.
Occasional farmers’ markets and pop-up stalls featuring local produce and snacks in the vicinity.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People in public spaces queue calmly; be patient and polite, say please and thank you, and avoid loud conversations in quiet areas.
A simple greeting like “Hello” or “Hi” is appreciated; small talk in pubs and cafes is common but not intrusive.
Keep dogs on leashes where required and clean up after pets; follow park rules to protect wildlife and preserve areas.
Safety
Tipping in Hampton
Ensure a smooth experience
In pubs and casual eateries, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service charge is not included on the bill, a tip of around 10-15% is customary for good service.
Cards (credit/debit) and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still available but less common in some spots. ATMs are easy to find in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with pleasant temperatures; expect outdoor dining, river activities, and weekend events along the Thames. Bring sunscreen and a light layer for cooler evenings near the water.
Mild to cool days with beautiful fall foliage in parks like Bushy Park. Pack a light jacket and enjoy crisp, scenic walks.
Cool to chilly with a fair amount of damp days; opportunities for indoor attractions and cozy pubs. Expect shorter daylight hours.
Blooming gardens and fresh produce market vibes; great for outdoor photos and gentle strolls along the river.
Hampton at Night
Hiking in Hampton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic loop through woodlands and open meadows with ample deer viewing and shaded sections.
A scenic riverside hike or long walk with plains, water views, and opportunities to stop at cafes along the way.
Airports
How to reach Hampton by plane.
Major international hub located to the west; frequent rail and road connections make it a convenient gateway for international trips.
Close to central London and easy for short-haul flights; good option for European trips.
South of London with extensive international and domestic routes; reachable by car or rail via city connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families appreciate the parks, riverside walks, and safe neighborhoods with good schools nearby.
Proximity to central London makes Hampton a convenient base for professionals working in the city who value a quieter residential setting.
Largely residential and peaceful, with easy access to green spaces and cultural sites for relaxed days.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and parks host weekend matches; nearby stadiums in the broader area (e.g., Twickenham and Kingston) attract crowds.
Cricket clubs and green spaces around the borough and surrounding towns are popular in warmer months.
Nearby venues host local matches; Twickenham is a notable rugby hub within easy reach.
Rowing clubs along the Thames offer activities and community events during the season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hampton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes offer vegetarian mains, salads, and vegetarian-friendly specials; look for veggie options on menus or ask staff about daily specials and substitutions.