Richmond isn’t exactly a part of London we go to every single day, but there are some things (say, Richmond Park!) that make it well worth the trek no matter where you’re coming from in the city. Kiss the Hippo is one of those places. It’s a fab neighbourhood spot & a true coffee lovers’ destination all rolled into one. 

The city’s largest royal park is where Londoners go to feel like they’re in the country without leaving town. Spot the hundreds of red and fallow deer that roam the wide open space, ancient trees (the Royal Oak is estimated to be around 750 years old) and, from King Henry’s mound, St Paul’s Cathedral 12 miles away. Team a walk with a visit to garden centre meets Michelin-green-starred restaurant Petersham Nurseries, to make a day trip out of it.

One of London’s smallest theatres may be out on its own in the south-west but its fierce commitment to new writing means that it is adored by locals and deemed worth travelling to within thespian circles. The intimate stage is surrounded by seating on all sides and famous runs have included Alistair McDowall’s whacky dystopian Pomona, which transferred to the National Theatre. Grab a drink at The Cricketers on Richmond Green and stroll over. A super-civilised ticket to book.

Horace Walpole's architectural masterpiece, Strawberry Hill House has quite literally gone down in history for its striking Georgian façade and gothic interiors. Only a short commute out into the suburbs of London, take a wander through the gardens before venturing inside the house.