10 places we love in South West London

Lucy Schiel June 7, 2017

Craven House luxury serviced apartments in Hampton Court and Claygate sit on the fringes of South West London: an area packed with all the fun, charm, history and beauty a visitor to the capital could dream of.

Here are some of our favourite spots to look out for on your next trip…
1. Richmond Park
Richmond Park frankly has to be seen to be believed. It’s 3.7 miles of the most perfectly preserved natural landscape you could imagine, right in the heart of London. Packed with historic buildings, ancient woodland and a variety of wildlife (including 630 deer!), no visit to London is complete without a stroll along its leafy paths.
Deer
2. Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road houses the world’s largest antiques market. But you don’t have to be a collector of antiques to enjoy a trip here. The vibrant mix of colour, culture, people and architecture makes it one of London’s best places to simply walk and people-watch. Set yourself up in one of the many pubs, order an ale and just watch the whole thing unfold.
3. South Kensington museums
The problem with visiting London is how to fit in visits to all of its world-renowned museums. In truth, you’ll need a lengthy stay to do all of them justice – and you’d probably feel a little overwhelmed by the end of your trip! My tip is simply to head to South Kensington for the day. Here you’ll find three of the best all next-door to each other: the Science, Natural History and Victoria and Albert Museums. You won’t be disappointed.
Science Museum
4. Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens houses the ‘largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world’ and is a World Heritage Site. It is, quite simply, the biggest and best collection of plant life in the world, and is a must-see for nature lovers and gardeners.
5. Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace – right on Craven House’s doorstep – needs no introduction. A Tudor Palace that once housed Henry VIII, it boasts a world-class art collection, fabulous gardens and a historic maze, all overlooking the Thames. We see it every week, and it never gets boring.
Hampton Court Palace - What do do around Craven House Luxury Serviced Apartments in Hampton Court
6. A drink on the river in Putney
There’s nothing quite like having a drink in a London pub on the Thames. And one of the best places to spend an afternoon this way is Putney. It has everything from craft breweries to upmarket bars, and all in the most beautiful riverside setting.
7. Wimbledon Tennis
Regardless of whether you’re able to time your visit appropriately and watch any matches, a visit to the home of tennis is well worth it. The museum is fantastic, and a tour will give you a closer look at all the iconic spots, from the Royal Box to ‘Henman Hill’.
All_England_Lawn_Tennis
8. Fuller’s Brewery Tour
This brewery in beautiful Chiswick has been making beer since the 17th Century. A tour here is a wonderful mix of history and heritage, as well as an exploration of the secrets behind beer-making. It also, importantly, includes a tasting session!
9. Twickenham Stadium
If you’re a rugby fan, you’ll know all about Twickenham Stadium. But if you’re not, it’s still the UK’s second largest stadium of any kind, so well worth a look. And if you can watch a rugby match, go. It’s a fabulous day or night out, as rugby crowds are exceptionally fun and friendly.
Wherever you’re headed, check out number 10: Craven House! Our serviced apartments – within easy access of all of these attractions – can make your trip to London extra special. Find out more here or give me a call to discuss your needs.
Best wishes
Lucy sig