West London

West London is the region for deer, grand houses and riverside estates. Along the Thames between Chiswick and Hampton you find a chain of historic houses set in parkland, and further south-west are the two biggest deer parks in London. It is a good part of the city for long walks, history and quiet green space.

Deer parks. Richmond Park is the largest of the Royal Parks, with herds of red and fallow deer and the Isabella Plantation woodland garden. Bushy Park, next to Hampton Court, also has deer, plus the long Chestnut Avenue and water features. Both are huge, so plan your route and keep a safe distance from the deer, especially in autumn.

Historic houses and gardens. Chiswick House and Gardens and Marble Hill Park both centre on elegant Palladian villas. Osterley Park is a National Trust estate with lakes and farmland, Gunnersbury Park has a free museum and Rothschild history, and Boston Manor Park in Brentford has a Jacobean house, a lake and a wetland trail. Holland Park is famous for its Kyoto Garden and peacocks.

Something different. Northala Fields in Northolt is built around man-made hills formed from the rubble of the old Wembley Stadium, with views from the top. Wimbledon Common has a windmill and miles of woodland paths, and Acton Park is a lively local park with a playground, skatepark and mini golf.

Which park should you choose? For deer, Richmond Park or Bushy Park. For a historic house, Chiswick, Marble Hill or Osterley. For a short city visit, Holland Park. For children, Acton Park or Marble Hill’s adventure playground. For a view with a story, Northala Fields.

Practical tips. The District and Piccadilly lines, the Overground and South Western Railway trains reach most of these parks. Several larger sites, including Richmond Park, Osterley and Marble Hill, have car parks, though some charge. Houses such as Chiswick House and Osterley House have their own opening times, separate from the gardens. Every guide below is based on my own visit, with my own photos and practical details checked against official sources.