King Henry's Mound and Deer in Richmond Park
King Henry's Mound King Henry's Mound is a historic viewpoint located in the Pembroke Lodge Gardens within Richmond Park. It is believed to have originated as a Bronze Age burial site and later served as a vantage point for royal hunting, including falconry. The mound offers spectacular panoramic views:
Eastward View: A protected sightline to St. Paul’s Cathedral, located 12 miles away, framed by carefully maintained trees. Westward View: Stunning vistas of the Thames Valley.
The view of St. Paul’s Cathedral has been preserved for centuries, with no buildings allowed to obstruct it. A telescope at the mound enhances the experience, making it a must-visit spot for history and nature enthusiasts.
Deer in Richmond Park Richmond Park is home to over 630 red and fallow deer, which have roamed freely since 1637. These majestic animals are integral to the park’s identity and can be spotted across its vast grasslands and woodlands.
Where to Spot Deer Pen Ponds: A prime location where deer often graze near the water. Isabella Plantation: Dense shrubbery provides shelter, making it an excellent spot for sightings. Grasslands: Open fields are ideal for spotting herds, especially in winter months. Around King Henry’s Mound: Deer are frequently seen grazing near this area.
Tips for Observing Deer Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when deer are most active. Safety Distance: Always maintain at least 50 meters from the deer to ensure safety. Photography: Use a telephoto lens to capture close-up shots without disturbing them.
Richmond Park offers a unique blend of history, wildlife, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for visitors.
Citations: [1] King Henry's Mound https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/richmond-park/king-henrys-mound [2] The Deer of Richmond Park - Londonopia https://londonopia.co.uk/the-deer-of-richmond-park/ [3] Park Attractions - Parkcycle https://www.parkcycle.co.uk/route-planning/park-attractions [4] Best area for Deer in Richmond Park | Talk Photography https://www.talkphotography.co.uk/threads/best-area-for-deer-in-richmond-park.602948/ [5] Over 1500 deer dead in Richmond's Royal Parks in last five years https://jackfifield.uk/2021/11/19/richmond-version-over-1500-deer-dead-in-richmonds-royal-parks-in-last-five-years-official-figures-reveal/ [6] Pembroke Lodge | The Royal Parks https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/richmond-park/pembroke-lodge [7] Deer in Richmond Park - The Royal Parks https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/richmond-park/deer-richmond-park [8] Are the deer in Richmond Park (London) wild? - iNaturalist Forum https://forum.inaturalist.org/t/are-the-deer-in-richmond-park-london-wild/29489 [9] The Secret London Guide To Richmond Park...
Read moreFor me this is one of the crowning glories of Richmond Park. It's a bit understated really. It's seems to be a prehistoric burial mound that has been built upon over the years. As it is right now it's hidden from the main road around the park but it's well sign posted. The hill is enshrouded in greenery, well camouflaged. At the top is a telescope that allows you to see some views across London. I don't want to spoil it for you because I want you to go there and see it for yourself but I challenge anyone to find more iconic views. Maybe not the most expansive and view but it's important to understand some important details about why and how London was built the way it is. If you want to find out more, go here! Parking in the park is free and it's a breath of fresh air to be here and away from the hustle and bustle of London even if for only a...
Read moreIt is a small hill, located in Pembroke Lodge Gardens and legend has it that it is the spot where King Henry VIII stood on 19 May 1536 to watch a rocket fired from the Tower of London to signal that his wife Anne Boleyn had been executed.
However it is more likely to be a prehistoric burial chamber from the Bronze Age and later used as a viewpoint for hunting and falconry.
It still has panoramic views of the Thames Valley to the west and distant view of St. Paul's Cathedral to the east which can be viewed through a telescope located there.
The good bit is that the Gardens and even the telescope are free of charge. Minus one star because it is a small mound so cannot accommodate many people at once (especially during these covid19 times) so you may have to wait quite a while to use the telescope which is required to...
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