Barnes to Richmond along the Thames Path

(S) The start is Barnes railway station (grid ref. TQ222756) which is served by regular trains from Waterloo. Exit the station on the North side and follow Station Road into the centre of Barnes.

(1) Arriving at Barnes Green, turn left into Barnes High Street. There is a 'village' feel to this area and it is hard to imagine you are so close to a major city. After 300 metres you reach the Thames.

(2) Cross the road and join the Thames Path. Walk upstream with the river to your right. The route requires very little description and is well signed throughout. Do remember this section is shared with cyclists who seem to be averse to using their bells to warn of their approach. Under Barnes Bridge the path leads to Mortlake. On this section, you are likely to see many rowers training especially at weekends. Under Chiswick Bridge, past the National Archive on your left, under another railway bridge and you reach Kew Pier and Bridge.

(3) Kew Gardens is passed on the left and there is a convenient entrance if you wish to pay admissions to visit this wonderful attraction. Across the river lies Syon Park. Kew Gardens becomes the Old Deer gardens on the left and you pass the Richmond Lock and Footbridge. This is operated by the Port of London Authority and is the last lock until the estuary.

(4) If the weather is fine, the path is likely to get much busier as the centre of Richmond is reached. Passing under a road and rail bridge, the pubs and cafes on the waterfront at Richmond come into sight.

(5) Richmond station is reached by taking Water Lane on the left. This leads into George Street with the station a short walk down on the right(E).

This is a straightforward linear walk that follows a section of the Thames Path. To complete the circuit you can use the regular train service between start and finish for the return leg. The route is flat throughout and there is plenty to see en-route.