Things To Do In Twickenham (as well as rugby)

Most people associate one thing with Twickenham – rugby! The area in South-West London is the home of England rugby and on match days thousands of fans converge to the area. But, there’s more to Twickenham, and the borough of Richmond-upon Thames, than JUST rugby. In fact, there’s plenty of other things to do in Twickenham.

The area was once a  ‘country retreat’ for many rich politicians and aristocracy in the 18th century and as such is littered with stately homes and large parks. Plus, its famous Eel Pie Island saw music legends such as The Stones and David Bowie play. Here’s a look at some top things to do in and around Twickenham stadium.

Visit Twickenham Stadium

If you are a rugby fan then a visit to the stadium is must. Built on a former cabbage patch which was bought for just £5,500 in 1907, it is now the largest dedicated rugby union venue in the world. It seats 82,000 people. I have seen England play a few times there and it is a great event to witness. There is always a good atmosphere and friendly crowds.

It can be difficult to get a ticket for international fixtures. Many are allocated to rugby clubs or sell out very quickly. If you register for an account on the RFU website, you can buy tickets when they are available. It is always worth enquiring at the ticket office for returns. Inevitably, on match day you will see ticket touts about who you can purchase from at your own risk. Seeing the Rugby Sevens or one of the less popular matches is a more likely way to attend a match at late notice.

Twickenham Stadium Tours

If you want to take a look at the legendary stadium ground, you can do a stadium tour. It takes you behind the scenes of the stadium. You can look at the royal box and even visit the England dressing room. It is advised that tickets are bought in advance. If you have a London Pass, the stadium tour is included as well as the World Rugby Museum. It has the largest collection of rugby memorabilia in the world and documents the history of rugby with interactive displays and exhibits from around the world. There’s also a rugby store at the stadium to stock up on memorabilia.

If you are visiting as part of a wider London visit, take a look at the London pass for discounts on sightseeing activities and museums.

Walk Along The River Thames

A short walk from Twickenham station is the River Thames. Before walking along its historic tow path, have a wander down Church Street. The cobbled street is filled with  quirky independent shops as well as pubs and restaurants. On match days expect it to be thronging with rugby fans spilling out onto the street. The pedestrianised street is often used in TV commercials. St Mary’s church with its Medieval tower is at one end of Church Street, backing onto the river.

If you have young children, there is an urban beach beside the river behind the church. It is open all year around. There is also an unusual sculpture garden along the river from the urban beach. If it is a fine day, you could have a picnic there, or go up the staircase and you will find yourself in the gardens of York House.

The tow path through Twickenham is incredibly picturesque. In the direction towards Richmond, you’ll wander past some of the 18th century houses which line the path. There’s a few pubs to stop off along the way such as the 17th century White Swan.

Eel Pie Island and Museum

This small island in the River Thames by Twickenham is only accessible by footbridge. Henry VIII is said to have used it for discreet courting while it was a favourite with Charles Dickens. It was a popular holiday destination for Londoners after Eel Pie Island hotel opened in 1830.

The island was later the hub of British music as the ‘Eelpiland’ club opened in the 1960s with everyone from the Rolling Stones to The Who, David Bowie, Rod Stewart and Eric Clapton playing gigs there. Today it is home to artist’s studios, Twickenham rowing club and a small community of people. Twice a year the artist studios open their doors to the public.

The Eel Pie Museum opened in the heart of Twickenham in early 2018. It brings the music history of the tiny island to life. A must-visit for music fans.

Strawberry Hill House

A quirky Gothic castle built by politician Horace Walpole in the 18th Century, Strawberry Hill House is an impressive sight to see and another top Twickenham attraction. Completed in 1776 it predated the Gothic revival and even in its day drew much attention from visitors. Walpole wanted a tour of Strawberry Hill to be a ‘theatrical experience’ and took inspiration from Gothic cathedrals and abbeys. Alongside sumptuous, bright interiors are gloomy stone stairwells while many items of Walpole’s antiquarian collection remain.

Adults £10.80
Children under 16 free. Half price for National Trust members

Orleans House and gallery

Slightly set back from the River Thames, Orleans House was built by the architect John James in 1710 and was later named after Duc D’Orleans, the former King of France, Louis Philippe. He stayed there during his exile from 1813 to 15. It has an impressive Baroque Octagonal room, designed by the famous architect James Gibbs. It’s free to enter with a cafe in the stables and an art gallery as well. Art workshops are regularly held although you may need to book in advance.

 Marble Hill House

Close to Orleans House are the grounds of Marble Hill House, a Palladian villa built in 1729 for King George II’s mistress, Henrietta Howard. She entertained famous friends such as Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift there. You can take a guided tour of the house which retains an 18th century look inside.

Marble Hill park is a wonderful space for everyone to enjoy and in the summer hosts music venues and various festivals. The house, along with the surrounding area, is getting a facelift over the next year or so. Not far from the park is the home of the famous painter J.W. Turner.

Where to eat?

If you are visiting Marble Hill and Orleans Gallery, there are two pubs close by to enjoy some lunch and a drink. The Crown is a traditional style pub with a cozy interior complete with a log fire burning away. It serves good food although can get busy, especially at weekends, so book in advance. It has a children’s menu but limited highchairs. The Rising Sun – which is a short walk away opposite Marble Hill Park – is family-friendly. Although the service can be a little hit and miss, the food is good, particularly the pizzas made in a wood burning oven. It has a great selection of beers and wine. There’s outside space in both the pubs to enjoy when the weather is warm.

Where to stay in Twickenham?

There plenty of accommodation options in Twickenham and the surrounding area if you are looking to extend your stay.

Budget

The Travelodge in the centre of Twickenham is hugely convenient for those wanting to watch the rugby and explore the local area. It’s right next to twickenham train station.

Mid-range

Further out towards Richmond, with views overlooking Richmond Park and the Thames, the Richmond Hill Hotel is a good option.

Closer to Twickenham, try the Alexander Pope hotel, named after the famous poet.

Splurge

Near the Richmond Hill Hotel, there’s the four-star hotel The Petersham. It has beautiful views of the River Thames and a luxurious, traditional style.

If you are a real rugby fan and don’t want far to travel, there’s the Marriott at Twickenham Stadium which has a gym and indoor pool.

There’s also The Lensbury, a beautiful complex in Teddington, close to the Lock and on the banks of the River Thames. It has a gym, tennis courts and a soft play area for younger guests.

Click here for other accommodation options in and around Twickenham.

How to get to Twickenham

From central London, Twickenham is accessible by train from Waterloo station with South West trains.

By tube, you can get the district line to Richmond and then a train or bus from there or even walk. Marble Hill is around 10-15 minute walk from Richmond station.

Those are some of my top things to do near Twickenham. If you enjoyed this article, you can download it – along with other London city guides at GPSmyCity.

Pin for Later