Highlights
- The National Plant Collection of Wilson 50 Kurume azaleas
- Rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias in spring
- Ponds and streams, including Still Pond and the extended Peg's Pond with its reedbeds
- The Heather Garden
- Autumn colour from acers
About Isabella Plantation
Isabella Plantation is an enclosed woodland garden in the heart of Richmond Park, the largest of London's Royal Parks. It was laid out within a Victorian woodland plantation established in the 1830s and first opened to the public in 1953.
The garden was extensively refurbished between 2011 and 2015 with lottery funding to improve biodiversity and access. It forms part of the Richmond Park Site of Special Scientific Interest and is run on organic principles, with native plants growing alongside exotics.
What to see
- Azaleas: the National Plant Collection of Wilson 50 Kurume azaleas, introduced from Japan by Ernest Wilson in the 1920s, lining the ponds and streams.
- Spring shrubs: large collections of rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias.
- Ponds and streams: fed from Pen Ponds, with Peg's Pond extended and planted with reedbeds.
- Heather Garden: heathers mixed with gorse and broom to echo natural heathland.
- Wildlife: over 70 bird species and six species of bat have been recorded.
Planning your visit
Buses 85 and K3 stop at Warren Road near Ladderstile Gate, a 15 minute walk from the plantation. The free RP1 minibus runs around Richmond Park from March to November and stops at the plantation. Broomfield Hill car park is about 400 metres away, and Peg's Pond car park is for disabled visitors.
Four colour-coded trails are marked with log signs, and there are plenty of benches. Toilets are at Peg's Pond Gate and Still Pond. Richmond Park's pedestrian gates close at night during the deer culls in November and February to March.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to see the azaleas at Isabella Plantation?
The evergreen azaleas are at their peak in late April and early May. Acers give colour in autumn and heathers flower in winter.
Can I bring my dog to Isabella Plantation?
Yes, dogs are welcome on leads in Isabella Plantation.
Where do I park for Isabella Plantation?
Broomfield Hill car park, reached via Kingston Gate, is about 400 metres from the plantation. Peg's Pond car park beside the garden is for disabled visitors. Parking in Richmond Park is free.
Is Isabella Plantation accessible?
Paths and bridges have been resurfaced, there are accessible toilets at Peg's Pond Gate (all year) and Still Pond (April to November), and a motorised wheelchair can be booked for weekday use with at least five days' notice.