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There’s nowhere in London quite like Isabella Plantation.
There are plenty of great green spaces across the city, like St James’s Park, but the plantation is by far the most magnificent, as long as you visit at the right time.
It’s a masterpiece of design, and something you have to witness at least once while you’re in London.
However, you have to be specific when you visit if you want to catch all the colour.
It’s only around for a few weeks during spring.
The difference between May and June is vast, and in just a few weeks, almost all of the colour vanishes.
Despite the lack of colour most of the year, Isabella Plantation is still worth a visit.
It’s a calming, quiet and peaceful place that’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of Central London.
Isabella Plantation
Isabella Plantation is a 40-acre woodland garden in Richmond Park, initially established in the 1830s.
It opened to the public in 1953 and is renowned for its vibrant evergreen azaleas, which bloom spectacularly in late April and early May.
The plantation also features notable collections of Rhododendrons, Magnolias, Camellias, and the National Plant Collection of Wilson 50 Kurume Azaleas.
Managed organically by Royal Parks and situated within a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the garden features both native and exotic plants, as well as wildlife-friendly plantings that benefit birds, bats, insects, and amphibians.
A major refurbishment, funded by the Heritage Lottery and Big Lottery Fund between 2011 and 2015, enhanced its biodiversity and accessibility.
When Is The Best Time to Visit?
The best time to visit Isabella Plantation is during late April to mid-May, when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom.
This is when the plantation really comes to life, with vivid splashes of pinks and reds.
The volume of colour is unreal, and something like you’ve never seen in a public garden.
However, each season offers something unique:
- Spring: Late March brings daffodils and camellias; by late April and May, azaleas and bluebells take over.
- Summer: Lush foliage, dappled light, and quieter paths make for ideal shady walks and picnics.
- Autumn: Beautiful autumn leaves from maples, oaks, and birches. Japanese acers and liquidambars turn red, orange, and gold.
- Winter: Bare branches accentuate the landscape’s structure. Camellias often bloom early, and their distinctive bark textures and evergreen nature are notable.
If you prefer tranquillity over crowds, try visiting early in the morning or on a weekday, especially during peak spring bloom.
Visitor Information
The closest car park is at Broomfield Hill, to the east of the plantation.
Disabled only parking is available to the west.
All of the parking is free, as is entry to Richmond Park and the plantation.
📍 Isabella Plantation, Richmond Park, Richmond, TW10 5HS
💷 Free
🕙 Daily, 7:30 am–5:15 pm
Isabella Plantation Photos
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