10 reasons Richmond deserves to be the UK’s Town of Culture 2026
Here are 10 reasons why we think Richmond should be nominated (and win) Town of Culture 2026!
Tucked along a sweeping bend of the River Thames, Richmond is where London’s cultural soul meets leafy elegance.
With its village-like charm, historic landmarks and acres of open green space, this southwest London gem already lives and breathes culture from theatre and heritage to food, music and the arts.
Richmond’s regal past, echoed in the remains of Richmond Palace and the grandeur of nearby Ham House, sits effortlessly alongside a thriving independent scene of boutiques, cafés and creative spaces.
Add world-class performances at Richmond Theatre, riverside festivals, and a community that values creativity as much as quality of life, and it’s easy to see why Richmond makes a compelling case for the UK’s Town of Culture 2026.
Here are the reasons why Richmond deserves the crown and why this beautiful borough should be celebrated on a national stage (and why I’d like to move there one day, lottery win pending...)
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1. Sunday strolls through Richmond Park
The crown jewel of the area, this massive royal park (2,500 acres) is famous for its free-roaming deer, ancient oak trees, and expansive views from King Henry’s Mound. Our Sunday strolls would never be the same!
2. Riverside walks
The River Thames winds through Richmond, offering scenic riverside walks, boat rides, and charming pubs along the towpath. Just imagine the picnics you could have over the summer!
3. Fit for royalty
Although Richmond Palace is now mostly ruins, it was once the favourite residence of Queen Elizabeth I. This historic palace gives the area a regal heritage. If it was good enough for Liz, it’s good enough for me.
4. Theatre, darling
Richmond Theatre is a Victorian venue with a packed calendar of plays, comedy, and family shows. If I lived there, you’d better believe I’d be a theatre regular!
5. Culture club
The Museum of Richmond offers insights into the local history, including its royal connections and evolution over the centuries.
6. Highly desirable
Richmond is one of London's most desirable residential areas, known for:
- Elegant Georgian and Victorian homes
- Excellent schools (like The Vineyard School and Grey Court School)
- A strong sense of community and safety
- It has a village feel despite being well-connected to central London via the District Line, Overground, and South Western Railway.
7. Eat it up
You won’t go hungry living in Richmond, which has a vibrant food scene with a mix of cosy pubs, riverside restaurants, and upmarket eateries. Popular spots include The Ivy Café Richmond, Petersham Nurseries, and Bingham Riverhouse.
Traditional English pubs like The White Cross are perfect for a drink by the river.
8. Shop ‘til you drop
The town centre blends independent boutiques with high-street staples like Zara, Whole Foods, and Anthropologie. Nearby Richmond Hill and Petersham offer antique shops and artisan goods. You just know my Richmond home would be full of quirky one off pieces!
9. Things to do and places to visit
Richmond is well-positioned for brilliant days out from sport to world heritage sites. Here are a few of our favourite places.
- Kew Gardens: Just down the road, this world-famous botanical garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Twickenham Stadium: A short trip away for rugby fans.
- Ham House: A 17th-century National Trust property with lovely gardens.
10. A favourite for families and professionals
Families are attracted by the excellent schools, professionals by the easy commute to central London, and everyone by the sheer quality of life. I can imagine Richmond would be the idyllic place to start and raise a family (so err if any Richmond-based Romeos are reading this hmu!)
The only downside...
Unfortunately, like with all seemingly perfect things, there is one major sticking point: the price tag. As of early 2025, the average house price in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames stands at approximately £748,000, positioning it among the most expensive areas in the capital.
The local housing market is particularly competitive for family homes priced between £1 million and £2 million, especially those near top-rated state schools and in move-in-ready condition. Such properties often attract multiple offers, sometimes exceeding the asking price.
So I’d better get moving on that get-rich-quick-scheme!
What is the Town of Culture award?
The award is run by the UK Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and builds on the success of initiatives like UK City of Culture. It is aimed specifically at towns, rather than cities, and the winning place receives government funding (previously up to £20 million) to deliver a year-long programme of cultural events, festivals and community projects.