I’ve come to know Bushy Park well over the years, and now it’s a regular go-to spot! Especially in autumn, when the colours are absolutely stunning, and the deer are in full rutting season (think antler showdowns!).
This is an amazing park, so close to London, perfect for a family day out with plenty to explore and enjoy!
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON invites you to lace up your boots and explore Bushy Park for yourself. Believe me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Bushy Park: London’s 2nd largest Royal Park with rich history
London counts 8 royal parks: Hyde Park, The Green Park, Richmond, Greenwich, St James’s Park, Bushy Park, The Regent’s Parks, and Kensington Gardens.
With 445 hectares (1,100 acres), Bushy Park ranks just behind Richmond Park in size.
The park, largely open to the public, lies just north of Hampton Court Palace and southwest of Richmond Park.
This park has some serious history! When Henry VIII took over Hampton Court Palace from Cardinal Wolsey in 1529, he created three parks that now make up Bushy Park, along with a little extra area.
He called them Hare Warren, Middle Park, and Bushy Park.
As a passionate hunter, he set them up as prime deer-hunting grounds!
As time went on, later kings, not quite as passionate about hunting, decided to add their own special touches to the park. One of them was the Longford River: a 19 km canal built by Charles I to supply water to Hampton Court. Such a royal upgrade!
Along with that, they added several scenic ponds, charming bridges, and peaceful walking trails, giving the park even more character and serenity.
I love strolling through this park and soaking in its peaceful vibe. Nature and fresh air are so invigorating, and it’s hard to believe London is just 30 minutes away!
Chestnut Avenue is also a nice addition to Bushy Park: it’s a wide, beautiful road that runs from Teddington to the Lion Gate of Hampton Court.
This tree-lined avenue, open to cars, divides the park into two distinct areas, adding a unique touch to the landscape.
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the avenue and the Arethusa ‘Diana’ Fountain were made to be a grand entrance to the palace.
Bushy park: a mix of wildlife and parklife
This is certainly the best reason to explore this area: a wildlife haven on the outskirts of London.
The park offers a diverse range of habitats, from woodlands and wetlands to ancient trees and rare acid grasslands, a key conservation priority.
Every time I visit, I spot nature and wildlife experts with their long lenses, capturing the park’s beauty. They’re always approachable, and you can learn so much from them!
There are plenty of animals to discover, with sounds and rhythms of nature that are so different from the city.
It’s incredibly invigorating to wander through these fields…
The Bushy Park wild deer
The park is home to a herd of 320 wild red and fallow deer, roaming freely across the grounds. It’s such a unique way to spot these amazing animals!
I absolutely love Bushy Park year-round, but there’s something truly special about visiting during the rutting season!
From late September to November, you’ll witness the magnificent stags commanding harems of up to 40 hinds (female red deer). This is an incredible sight I surely don’t want to miss!
The stags spend most of their time chasing off rivals and keeping their hinds close, barely stopping to eat or sleep… And you’ll hear their powerful roars echoing through the park, as they try to impress both females and competitors.
It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience!
I’m always impressed when I come across one, and you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled, as some might be hiding in the grass, recovering from the exhaustion of the rutting season!
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing day outdoors, Bushy Park offers something truly special. It’s a rare gem so close to the city, where history, wildlife, and natural beauty all meet.
Feeling inspired? If you’re planning a visit, I’d love to hear about your experience on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
Check out my other Parks recommendations in and around London here.
Looking for more inspiration?
To go further:
Bushy Park official website here
Address: Bushy Park, Hampton Court Road, Teddington, London TW11 0JN
