Situated just to the north of the magnificent Hampton Court, Bushy Park is the second largest – and perhaps least known – of London’s eight Royal Parks. The thousand acres include expansive gardens and waterways as well as roaming herds of fallow and red deer, the remnants of a Tudor deer park.
History of Bushy Park
The land became a Royal Park in 1529 when it was gifted to Henry VIII by Cardinal Wolsey, along with Hampton Court. Unfortunately for Wolsey his beneficence was wasted as he died out of the favour of the Tudor monarch the following year.
The Longford River, a 12-mile canal dug in the 1630s to provide water to Hampton Court, supports much wildlife, including kestrels and kingfishers. One of the most outstanding parts of the park is the mile long Chestnut Avenue and Diana Fountain both of which were designed by Sir Christopher Wren, architect of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Within the park’s grounds are Bushy House and the National Physical Laboratory, as well as rugby and cricket pitches.
When is Bushy Park Open?
It never closes, apart from during deer culling season (September and November) when it is only open from 8am to dusk (Monday to Friday).
Map of Bushy Park
You can view a map of the park here.
Getting to Bushy Park
From Waterloo Station take the train to Teddington, Hampton Wick or Hampton Court stations, all of which are a five to 10 minute walk away. Enter Bushy Park through the Sandy Lane Gates.
Nearby Attractions
It makes sense to combine a trip with a visit to Hampton Court, one of the best stately homes in the country. Bushy House is also worth a visit. This Grade II* listed building was the residence of King William IV and Queen Adelaide. It was constructed for Lord Halifax between 1714 and 1715.
