Ham House and Garden: A Timeless Stuart Masterpiece on the Thames
Experience one of England’s finest 17th-century Stuart houses and gardens, steeped in history and set on the scenic Thames in Richmond.
Ham House and Garden, located on the banks of the River Thames in Richmond, is a rare and atmospheric 17th-century Stuart mansion renowned for its remarkably preserved interiors, extensive art and furniture collections, and one of Britain’s oldest surviving formal gardens. Built in 1610 and extensively remodeled in the 1670s, the house offers visitors a vivid glimpse into Restoration court life, complemented by tranquil gardens featuring a historic wilderness and lavender parterre.
A brief summary to Ham House and Garden
- Ham St, Richmond, Ham, TW10 7RS, GB
- +442089401950
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Orangery Café to enjoy fresh dishes made from the garden’s organic produce.
- Explore the Silent Space in the wilderness garden for a moment of peaceful reflection.
- Allow at least two hours to fully appreciate both the house interiors and the extensive gardens.
- Check the National Trust website for seasonal events and family-friendly activities during your visit.
- National Trust members enjoy free entry, so consider membership if planning multiple visits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take a train to Richmond station from central London, then catch bus 371 or 65 towards Ham. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes and costs around £3-£5 with an Oyster or contactless card. Buses run every 15-30 minutes but check schedules for weekends.
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Car
Drive via the A307 from Richmond or Kingston, with free parking available at a council car park at the end of Ham Street. The drive takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Note that the area can be busy during weekends and parking spaces are limited.
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Walking
From Richmond town centre, enjoy a scenic 30-40 minute walk along the Thames Path to Ham House. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers, offering riverside views and access to nearby parks.
Ham House and Garden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Ham House and Garden
Architectural Heritage and Historical Significance
Ham House was originally constructed in 1610 for Sir Thomas Vavasour, a Knight Marshal to King James I. The house was later transformed in the late 17th century by Elizabeth Murray, Countess of Dysart, and her husband John Maitland, Duke of Lauderdale, into one of the grandest Stuart houses in England. The redesign, led by architect William Samwell, introduced baroque ceiling murals by Antonio Verrio, intricate Caroline plasterwork, and richly decorated interiors including a magnificent grained and gilded staircase with carved balustrades. The house retains many original Jacobean and Caroline features, making it a rare survival of 17th-century luxury and taste. It holds Grade I listed status and museum accreditation, reflecting its exceptional cultural importance.Artistic Treasures and Interior Highlights
Inside, Ham House boasts an internationally significant collection of 17th-century textiles, furniture, and artworks. The library, dating from the 1670s, is among the earliest purpose-built country house libraries in England. Visitors can admire paintings by renowned artists such as Joshua Reynolds, Anthony van Dyck, and Peter Lely. Unique objects include a rare Chinese teapot and an exquisite ivory cabinet. The house also features a hands-on servants' area in the basement, offering insight into the lives of those who worked there.Gardens Reflecting 17th-Century Landscape Design
The 18-acre gardens surrounding Ham House are among the oldest surviving formal garden layouts in Britain. Designed by the Lauderdales, the gardens include eight square lawns or 'plats', a formal lavender parterre, and a large walled kitchen garden that remains productive and is managed with organic principles. A distinctive feature is the 'wilderness'—a geometric woodland area with hornbeam hedges and summerhouses—offering visitors a tranquil space for reflection, known as the Silent Space. The Cherry Garden, with its fragrant lavender and yew hedges, was once a private garden for the Duchess of Lauderdale.Cultural Legacy and Modern Use
Ham House has played a significant role in British history, closely tied to the monarchy and the politics of the English Civil War and Restoration. Today, it serves not only as a museum preserving 17th-century aristocratic life but also as a popular filming location for numerous films and television series, including "The Young Victoria," "Victoria and Abdul," and "Rebecca." The house and gardens host a variety of family-friendly activities, seasonal events, and guided tours that deepen visitors’ understanding of its heritage.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy exploring both the richly decorated interiors and the expansive gardens, complemented by the Orangery Café, which serves dishes made from produce grown in the kitchen garden. Facilities include a gift shop, public toilets, free parking nearby, and accessible paths. Dogs are welcome in the gardens year-round. The property offers a peaceful escape from central London, with scenic views across the Thames and connections to nearby Richmond Park.Preservation and Recognition
Ham House is protected as a Grade I listed building, with its park and gardens listed at Grade II*. The National Trust has overseen extensive restoration efforts to maintain its historic fabric and collections. The house’s museum accreditation underscores its role as a custodian of cultural heritage, ensuring that this exceptional example of 17th-century architecture and landscape design remains accessible and inspiring for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
