6 Things To Do in Twickenham: Strawberry Hill House to Eel Pie Island

On the banks of the River Thames in southwest London, Twickenham is a lively town that blends rich sporting heritage with modern charm. Known as the home of English rugby, Twickenham has beautiful outdoor spaces, delightful eateries and a vibrant arts scene. While the town and its impressive stadium may be synonymous with live events, attractions like the stunning Gothic Revival Strawberry Hill House, sprawling Hampton Court Palace and delightful restaurants like Mamma Mia show there’s so much more than sport on the menu.

When you think of Twickenham, the first thing that comes to mind is rugby. Twickenham Stadium is the largest dedicated rugby stadium and is a place of pilgrimage for fans the world over. Having opened in 1909, the stadium has hosted hundreds of international matches, including the prestigious Six Nations Championship, matches from the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cup, and two men’s Rugby World Cup finals. The stadium isn’t just designed for match days, however. Guided tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at this impressive venue, including access to the players’ tunnel, changing rooms, Royal Box and the World Rugby Museum. Here you can delve into the history of rugby through fascinating exhibits, thousands of items of memorabilia and high-tech interactive displays that are perfect for entertaining the children.

• Address: 200 Whitton Rd, Twickenham TW2 7BA
• Tickets: The museum and stadium tour costs £27.95 for adults and £17.50 for children aged 5-15.

Hampton Court Palace is a treasure trove of history and architecture that’s waiting to be discovered. The palace is only a few kilometres from the centre of Twickenham and, as you enter its main gates, you'll be transported to a time that witnessed many of the most important events in British history, including the reign of Henry VIII. Discover the Tudor Kitchens to see how meals were prepared for the royal court, marvel at the wonders of the Great Hall where Henry used to entertain his guests, wander the magical 300-hectare gardens, and lose yourself in the iconic maze.

• Address: Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
• Open: 10am-4pm Wednesday-Sunday
• Tickets: £27.20 for adults and £13.60 for children aged 5-17. Under 5s can enter free.

This stunning villa was designed by Horace Walpole in the 18th century. His whimsical mansion, with its turrets and intricate interiors, is often described as one of the first examples of the Gothic Revival style. You can enjoy a guided tour of the house to learn about its fascinating past and the literary figures who visited, including the likes of Alexander Pope and Thomas Jefferson. In more recent years, the house has been repopulated with more than a hundred works of art from Walpole’s original collection. Looking to stay somewhere that's got plenty of heritage, history and glamour, just like Strawberry House? The five-star Raffles London at The OWO is both opulent and centrally located.

• Address: 268 Waldegrave Rd, Twickenham TW1 4ST
• Open: The house and shop are open 11am-4pm Saturday-Wednesday, and the garden and café 9am-4pm on the same days.
• Tickets: £14.50 for adults and £5 for children aged 6-16.

The Thames Path National Trail runs through Twickenham and offers visitors picturesque riverside walks with peaceful views. You can stroll along the towpath, enjoying the gentle lapping of water against the banks, the sight of swans gliding by and the crisp air. Glorious Richmond Park provides a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. Only three kilometres from the centre of Twickenham, the park is a vast expanse of ancient woodland and open grassland, so it's perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a brisk cycle ride. For a more intimate experience and one of the most interesting things to do in Twickenham, you can explore the beautiful 18th-century Orleans House Gallery, a free public art gallery in a Palladian villa overlooking lush gardens and the Thames.

If you're after unusual things to do in Twickenham, why not consider a boat trip on the Thames? Boat tours provide a unique perspective of the town and the surrounding area. Glide past iconic landmarks like Ham House & Garden and Marble Hill, enjoy the gentle sway of the boat and take in stunning riverside scenery. A return trip to Hampton Court starts from around £20 per adult and £10 for children.

Cross the bridge over the Thames from the Twickenham Embankment and you can discover Eel Pie Island, one of the capital’s best-kept secrets. Known for giving birth to the British rock ‘n’ roll revolution in the early 1960s, as well as the subversive counter-culture scene, the island saw musicians like The Rolling Stones, The Who and Pink Floyd playing residencies in the rickety Eel Pie Island Hotel ballroom. Although the hotel burned down in 1971, the island maintains its creative roots with the studios of many artists, potters and sculptors dotting this tiny oasis in the river. Twice a year, the islanders welcome the public to explore their little slice of cultural history.

If you’re looking for interesting things to do in Twickenham, you’ll be delighted to discover that the town has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that includes traditional riverside pubs, high-quality restaurants and delightful cafés. If you’re in the mood for classic British fare, head to The White Swan, a charming pub with a lovely riverside terrace. It’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing with a pint and some hearty pub grub. For a taste of Italy, look no further than Mamma Mia. This popular local eatery serves delicious homemade pasta and classic Italian dishes. If you fancy something sweet, don’t miss The Pudding Stop, a delightful dessert café that’s known for its mouth-watering cakes, the perfect treat to satisfy a sweet tooth. Twickenham is easily explored on foot or by public transport but please designate a driver if you’re coming from further afield and are planning to enjoy the local hospitality.

The White Swan

• Address: Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DN
• Open: 11am-11pm Wednesday-Saturday, 11am-10pm Sunday-Tuesday

Whether you’re a rugby fan, a history buff or someone looking to enjoy beautiful outdoor spaces, there are plenty of things to do in Twickenham. Why not grab your walking shoes, bring your appetite and your curiosity, and discover a hidden gem in this peaceful corner of West London?