Exploring Isabella Plantation, Richmond Park's secret pink paradise

Richmond Park is well known for being London’s largest Royal Park, home to deer and wildlife. At its heart lies a secret garden: Isabella Plantation. The 40 acres of this woodland garden were planted in the 1830s, and have been open to the public since 1953.

The pathways of Isabella Plantation take you down a pink paradisal maze of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias, bursting in a riot of colour.

This area of Richmond Park was originally known as The Sleyt; sleyt meaning a bog or space between woods and banks. On maps from the 18th century it is labelled as Isabella Slade - likely to be from Isabel, a word used to describe a greyish brown colour (the colour of the soil in this area of the park.)

In 1831 the park’s deputy ranger, Lord Sidmouth, planted oaks, beech and sweet chestnut trees to be used for timber. He renamed the area as the Isabella Plantation and fenced it off from the rest of the park (and the deer.)

Today, the garden is known for its collection of evergreen Kurume Azaleas, from Japan, which grow around the Still Pond. There are 50 different rhododendron species and 120 hybrids.

The perimeter areas are carpeted in Bluebells, and planted with nectar and berry producing trees and shrubs to provide shelter to wildlife. 

You can walk across the stream via small bridges at several points, giving you a look along the waters that reflect the beautiful colours of the azaleas. The stream is home to many invertebrates and amphibians, and is lined with lush ferns.

Head down to Richmond Park to see this pink paradise when the plants are in full bloom. 

How to get there

When: The best time to visit is late April/early May, when the flowers are in full bloom.

Travel: Take the 85 or K3 bus which stop at Warren Road Coombe, near Ladderstile Gate (a pedestrian access to the park). A marked trail leads visitors to Isabella Plantation's Broomfield Hill Gate after a 15 minute walk.

The south entrance of Richmond Park is a short walk from Norbiton Station, which you can get to from Waterloo.

By car, you can park within Richmond Park at Broomfield Hill car park (400m from Isabella Plantation) or Peg's Pond car park, a dedicated disabled user's car park.

There is a free bus service operating on Wednesdays within Richmond Park commencing early April, to provide disabled access to Isabella Plantation. 

Entry: Free

Opening hours: 7.00am or 7.30am (various times of year) to various closing times.

Visit the Royal Parks website for up to date visitor information.