Museum of Richmond: A Journey Through Local Heritage
Explore Richmond’s rich heritage and royal past in the welcoming Old Town Hall museum with free entry and engaging exhibitions.
Located in Richmond’s Old Town Hall on Whittaker Avenue, the Museum of Richmond offers a free-entry exploration of Richmond’s rich history from prehistoric times to its royal and cultural prominence. Open Tuesday to Friday from 11am to 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 4pm, this museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and family-friendly activities that celebrate the area’s diverse heritage and artistic legacy.
A brief summary to Museum of Richmond
- Old Town Hall, Museum Of, Whittaker Ave, Richmond, TW9 1TP, GB
- +442083321141
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Saturday morning for quieter galleries and family-friendly craft sessions starting at 10am.
- Check the museum’s website or calendar for special talks and temporary exhibitions to enrich your visit.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the permanent and temporary exhibits and participate in interactive activities.
- The museum is free to enter, but donations are welcome to support ongoing exhibitions and community programs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the South Western Railway to Richmond Station, approximately a 10-minute walk to the museum. Frequent trains run from central London, with fares typically between £3 and £6 one way.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Richmond town centre, including routes 65, 190, and 371. From the bus stop, it is about a 5 to 8-minute walk to the museum. A standard Oyster or contactless fare applies.
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Car
Driving to the museum is possible but parking in Richmond town centre can be limited and paid. Nearby public car parks charge around £2 to £4 per hour. Allow 10 to 20 minutes for parking and walking.
Museum of Richmond location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Museum of Richmond
Rich Tapestry of Richmond’s Past
The Museum of Richmond is dedicated to telling the story of Richmond from its earliest days through to the present. Housed in the historic Old Town Hall, the museum traces the area’s evolution from prehistoric settlements to its rise as a royal residence in the medieval period. The exhibits highlight Richmond’s transformation into a vibrant centre of arts, fashion, and culture, reflecting its enduring significance in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.Engaging Exhibits and Dynamic Programming
Visitors can explore a range of permanent displays that delve into Richmond’s local history alongside rotating temporary exhibitions that bring fresh perspectives and stories to light. The museum’s learning and events programs provide interactive experiences for all ages, including talks, workshops, and family activities designed to deepen understanding of the area's heritage and community.Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Community Focus
The Museum of Richmond fosters an inviting environment for families, with free craft sessions and discovery trails that encourage children to engage creatively with history. These activities, such as the popular patchwork quilt quest, make the museum a welcoming place for young visitors and their families to learn through play and exploration.Architectural and Cultural Setting
Situated in a landmark building, the Old Town Hall itself is part of Richmond’s architectural heritage. The museum’s location on Whittaker Avenue places it within a charming historic district, enhancing the visitor experience with a sense of place and continuity. The building’s classic features complement the museum’s mission to preserve and celebrate Richmond’s cultural identity.Special Events and Talks
Throughout the year, the museum hosts curated talks and events that spotlight notable figures connected to Richmond’s history, such as sporting pioneer Pamela Barton and Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling. These events offer deeper insights and foster community engagement, often supporting local causes and cultural institutions.Access and Visitor Information
The Museum of Richmond is free to enter, making it accessible to a wide audience. It operates Tuesday to Friday from 11am to 5pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm, closed Sundays and Mondays. Its central location is within walking distance of Richmond town centre, encouraging visitors to combine their museum visit with exploring the surrounding historic and commercial areas.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Richmond Bridge
0.2 km
Richmond Bridge, London's oldest Thames crossing, blends 18th-century Palladian elegance with timeless riverside charm.
Richmond Hill - Viewing Point
0.9 km
Britain's only parliamentary-protected view, where the Thames winds through timeless meadowland.
Queen Charlotte's Cottage
1.6 km
Discover the charming 18th-century rustic retreat of Queen Charlotte nestled in Kew Gardens' tranquil woodland and royal heritage.
Barmy Arms
1.9 km
Charming riverside pub in Twickenham offering scenic Thames views, classic pub fare, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Church Street Twickenham
2.0 km
Discover Twickenham’s charming Church Street, a vibrant hub of independent shops, historic pubs, and community spirit nestled near the town centre.
Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford
3.6 km
Modern aparthotel in Brentford offering spacious apartments, fitness facilities, and easy access to Heathrow and central London.
Hammersmith Bridge
6.4 km
Victorian engineering marvel spanning the Thames with a turbulent history of bombs, closures, and remarkable resilience.
Mr Mathias Winkler
6.8 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque
7.2 km
Discover the modest Feltham home where Freddie Mercury’s legendary musical journey began and his legacy is forever commemorated.
Southall Broadway
7.6 km
Discover Southall Broadway, a vibrant transport hub rich in culture, cuisine, and community that offers a true taste of London's diversity.
Kempton Steam Museum
7.7 km
Explore the Kempton Steam Museum: A captivating journey into the world of steam technology and industrial heritage in Sunbury-on-Thames.
Christ Church, Surbiton Hill
7.7 km
A Victorian Anglican church with stunning stained glass and a peaceful churchyard, Christ Church, Surbiton Hill is a spiritual and historical gem in the heart of Surbiton.
Hampton Kempton Waterworks Railway
7.9 km
Discover the historic charm of the Hampton Kempton Waterworks Railway with scenic train rides, picnic spots, and engaging family activities in Feltham.
The SkyEx Community Stadium
8.2 km
Discover the electric atmosphere of The SkyEx Community Stadium in Hayes, where sports and community spirit come alive in an unforgettable experience.
Queen Victoria Monument
8.3 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Richmond Riverside
0.1 km
A peaceful Thames-side haven in Richmond with historic charm, scenic views, and riverside pubs perfect for relaxing strolls and river activities.
One Paved Court
0.2 km
An intimate artist-run gallery in historic Richmond, showcasing innovative contemporary art in a charming Georgian setting.
Richmond Green
0.3 km
Richmond Green: A historic Tudor and Georgian urban park offering tranquil green space and rich royal heritage in the heart of Richmond-upon-Thames.
The Poppy Factory
0.4 km
Discover the heart of remembrance and veteran support at The Poppy Factory, Richmond’s historic home of handcrafted poppies and wreaths.
Terrace Gardens
0.7 km
A serene formal garden on Richmond Hill offering iconic, protected views over the River Thames and seasonal floral beauty.
Marble Hill
1.1 km
Discover Marble Hill House, a serene Georgian Palladian villa with exquisite interiors and riverside parkland, embodying 18th-century elegance in Twickenham.
Orleans House Gallery
1.5 km
Discover historic elegance and contemporary creativity at Orleans House Gallery, a free riverside art sanctuary in Twickenham.
Ham House and Garden
1.7 km
Experience one of England’s finest 17th-century Stuart houses and gardens, steeped in history and set on the scenic Thames in Richmond.
Eel Pie Island Museum
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant musical and artistic heritage of Eel Pie Island at this intimate museum in Twickenham, celebrating a legendary Thames isle’s unique story.
The Twickenham Museum
1.9 km
Discover Twickenham’s rich heritage in a charming Georgian museum on the Thames, showcasing centuries of local history through engaging exhibits and archives.
Marianne North Gallery
2.0 km
Explore over 800 vibrant botanical paintings by pioneering Victorian artist Marianne North in a unique gallery at Kew Gardens.
Eel Pie Island
2.0 km
Discover Eel Pie Island, a small Thames island with a rich history, legendary 1960s music scene, and a vibrant community of artists and boatbuilders.
Syon House
2.0 km
Discover the rich Tudor history, Robert Adam’s neoclassical interiors, and Capability Brown’s sweeping landscapes at Syon House in Brentford.
Syon Park
2.1 km
Explore centuries of history, stunning gardens, and the iconic Great Conservatory at Syon Park, the London home of the Duke of Northumberland.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
2.3 km
Explore Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending historic beauty, botanical diversity, and immersive garden experiences in Richmond, London.
Essential places to dine
A Cena
0.3 km
Refined Southern Italian dining with generous portions, warm ambience, and a curated cocktail bar in the heart of East Twickenham.
The Petersham Restaurant
1.0 km
Elegant British fine dining with stunning Thames views in Richmond’s historic mid-Victorian setting.
La Rosetta Restaurant
2.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality at La Rosetta, a beloved Brentford dining destination.
Man vs Food
3.1 km
Bold American flavours and massive portions meet lively challenges in Isleworth’s vibrant Man Vs Food diner.
Brouge Gastropub
4.0 km
Experience authentic Belgian beers and hearty British-Belgian cuisine in the welcoming heart of Twickenham’s Fulwell neighbourhood.
Le Taj
7.6 km
Experience authentic and innovative Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Feltham at Le Taj.
Humble Thali
7.8 km
Experience authentic Indian thali dining with fresh, vibrant flavors and warm service in the heart of Feltham.
Il Portico
8.6 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
9.1 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
The Ladbroke Arms
9.1 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
The Bell On The Green - Pub, Bar and Indian Restaurant
9.2 km
A vibrant Feltham pub blending classic British charm with authentic Indian flavors and a welcoming beer garden.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
9.2 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
9.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Dishoom Kensington
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
9.3 km
Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Always & Forever - Wedding Dresses London
3.9 km
Premier family-run bridal boutique in Hounslow offering over 700 gowns and personalized, pressure-free service for your perfect wedding dress.
Stuff
5.8 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming West London boutique with a personal touch and curated collections.
The London Heritage
7.9 km
A boutique heritage hotel in Canary Wharf blending historic elegance with modern luxury and wellness amenities.
Westfield London
8.0 km
Explore Westfield London: A premier shopping center featuring top brands, diverse dining, and entertainment options in the heart of the city.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
8.6 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
8.6 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
the Design Museum Shop
8.7 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
8.8 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Kensington High St
9.3 km
Discover London’s vibrant shopping heart, where high-end boutiques meet local charm and royal parks.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
9.3 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Jigsaw
9.3 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
9.4 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Good
9.4 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
The Blue Door
9.4 km
Discover stylish clothing and unique hats at The Blue Door, a charming boutique nestled in the lively heart of Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
9.4 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
London Apprentice
1.7 km
Historic Georgian riverside pub in Isleworth offering classic ales, scenic Thames views, and lively community events.
The Sussex Arms
3.2 km
A lively gastropub in Twickenham offering craft ales, hearty British dishes, and a welcoming beer garden for all seasons.
The M Bar
5.6 km
Experience the best of mobile catering and cocktails at The M Bar, a must-visit destination for food lovers and event planners in New Malden.
Star & Scorpion
5.9 km
A lively gastropub in West Ealing serving American-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and featuring private heated cabins with Sky Sports.
The Queen's Head, Cranford
7.4 km
Historic 400-year-old pub in Cranford blending traditional charm with modern gastropub dining and lively entertainment near Heathrow.
The Curtains Up
7.5 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
Green Man
7.7 km
Historic British pub near Heathrow with traditional charm, lively events, dog-friendly spaces, and unique plane-spotting views.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
8.7 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Elgin
9.3 km
Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.
The Builders Arms
9.3 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
9.4 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Prince of Wales
9.4 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
9.4 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
The Week
9.4 km
Cozy Notting Hill bar on Elgin Crescent, blending craft cocktails and warm vibes in West London's chicest corner. Ideal for intimate evenings amid Victorian charm.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
9.4 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Le Fez
6.2 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
Lost In Disco
7.4 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Ricco London
8.1 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Duke of Wellington
9.4 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Clapham Grand
9.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Clapham Grand, a premier events venue offering live music, comedy, and unforgettable parties.
Notting Hill Arts Club
9.6 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
B London
9.6 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
The Globe
9.8 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Subteranian
9.8 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Dolce Night Club , London
9.9 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Metric
10.0 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
10.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Infernos Nightclub
11.8 km
Clapham’s legendary two-floor nightclub where wild nights, iconic music, and unforgettable parties come alive until dawn.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
12.6 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
