Just a few years back (wink wink, nudge nudge), I went to Kingston University in South London. Not only does it have one of the top two fashion schools in the U.K., but it also sits by one of the London area’s most overlooked parts of the city. I wanted to show my fiancé my old stomping grounds, so, we fought our way through the urban jungle with my friend, Gail, and ended in Richmond Park, home to thousands of deer grazing in the endless grasslands and trees that are regal and abundant – trees that seem to come alive in the shadows of twilight. When I was at University, I used to go out of my way to drive through the park. Such a haven from the hustle and bustle of Blighty.

The river Thames snakes around Richmond, which became a world of punting, and river boating. At University, it was a regular stop for a Sunday pub lunch. My fiancé discovered that it’s also a great spot for a quick shot of whiskey!

As we continued on along the Thames, Gail pointed us in the direction of Petersham Nurseries. Go for the amazing food and atmosphere, stay for the beautiful plants and flowers. What an inspiration!

Our cute little lunch spot.

Gail and I amongst a forest of blossoms.

The sweetest loo I’ve ever seen.

So simple and so beautiful.

Our bellies full, and our senses sated, we continued on up the A1 to our final destination… my childhood home of Newcastle. More on that later! In the meantime, add Richmond to your list of London To-Dos!

Image credit: Jeffrey Doornbos