Horse-drawn carriage rides through Richmond Park are returning this Christmas and we went along to experience one of the borough’s most magical festive traditions.
There are few places more beautiful than Richmond Park in winter, but seeing it from the back of a traditional horse-drawn carriage is something quite special.
We recently spent an afternoon with Anthony and Ben from Operation Centaur, along with magnificent Shire horses George and William, to experience the Christmas carriage ride for ourselves and it’s an experience we’d wholeheartedly recommend adding to your festive plans.
A Christmas carriage ride through Richmond Park
The 75-minute experience begins at Holly Lodge, tucked away inside Richmond Park, where guests are welcomed with refreshments before meeting the horses and climbing aboard a traditional six-person carriage.
From there, it’s time for an hour-long journey through the park.
Think the rhythmic sound of hooves, jingling bells, blankets to keep you warm and the beautiful landscape of Richmond Park passing slowly by. Add crisp winter air, a hot chocolate and a mince pie, and it all feels wonderfully Christmassy.
Travelling by carriage also gives you a completely different perspective on a place many of us know so well. Without the rush of a normal journey through the park, there’s time to sit back, take in the scenery and simply enjoy being there.
Meet the Shire horses
The experience doesn’t end with the carriage ride.
Guests also get a special behind-the-scenes visit to the working stables, with the opportunity to learn more about the Shire horses, their care and the work they carry out in Richmond Park.
The rides are run by Operation Centaur, which works with working horses across The Royal Parks. Proceeds from the Christmas carriage rides help support its work with the Shire horses and sustainable conservation initiatives within the parks.
Meeting George and William and seeing the relationship they have with Anthony and Ben was one of the loveliest parts of the afternoon for us.
When are the Richmond Park Christmas carriage rides?
The Christmas carriage rides run on selected dates from the end of November through to the beginning of January, making them a lovely option in the run-up to Christmas as well as during that quieter period between Christmas and New Year.
Each carriage accommodates up to six people, so it could make a particularly special experience for a family, group of friends or even an early Christmas present.
Places are limited and, given how special the experience is, we’d recommend booking well ahead if you have a particular date in mind.