Richmond

Easily the most famous is Richmond Park which is very popular for walkers, runners and cyclists. It is one of the best parks in London for cycling with undulating paths, wild deer and pleasant cafes within its 955 hectares. Some of the other parks and open spaces within the area which are worth writing about are Marble Hill Park, Palewell Park and of course Old Deer Park. Old Deer Park has an indoor swimming pool within its grounds, cricket pitches, public grass tennis courts (very rare) and general recreational space. Cambridge Gardens and Moormead and Bandy Recreation Ground are other areas worth noting when looking for tennis courts in Richmond.

Leisure centres in Richmond are fairly rare, but the council does offer a leisure card for its residents. However separate to leisure centres are numerous schools with sports facilities. Richmond Upon Thames College has a sports hall which can be used for badminton, volleyball, 5 a side football as well as most other indoor sports. Teddington School which counts Jonny Wilkinson amongst its alumni is another great example, whilst Hampton Academy and Richmond Park Academy also have shool facilities for hire in Richmond when not in use by their pupils.

• Hampton Academy