Thames River Guide: Isleworth to Kew

Syon House. Courtesy of Richmond upon Thames Council

You can find some remarkable attractions on the river between Isleworth and Kew: the wonder of plants, creatures, engineering and architecture. So get outdoors and start exploring!

Film Fame

You may recognise Syon House from scenes in several movies. It appears as the grand residence in Gosford Park, The Madness of King George, The Wings of a Dove and Emma. Apart from being the film location of choice for period dramas, this is the London home of the Duke of Northumberland and has been the family seat for the past 400 years. A tour inside reveals Neoclassical interiors. Highlights include the Private Apartments and the State Bedroom, where Princess Victoria stayed during the 1830s.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Kew Gardens is packed full of rare and endangered plants from all four corners of the globe and is a World Heritage Site. From the exotic species growing in the tropical climes of the Palm House to giant water lilies stretching 2.5m (4ft) across, nature puts on a remarkable show here! As well as the permanent collection, the gardens hold exhibitions throughout the year and outdoor concerts in the summer.

Royal Residences

After undergoing 10 years of major works and extensive refurbishment, Kew Palace reopened its doors in April 2006 to great fanfare. A Flemish merchant built Kew Palace in 1631 and it later became a royal residence for King George II's three daughters, and then the family home of King George III.

Visiting is a real treat as you gain an insight into the lives and loves of this Georgian family. Once you've toured the palace, take a look at the nearby Queen Charlotte's Cottage, built in 1770. George III and his Royal household used it as a picnic cottage and summerhouse.

Steam Museum

It's easy to take water for granted. You turn on a tap and there it is. Obviously, this wasn't always the case. Originally built in the 19th century to supply Londoners with water, today the Kew Bridge Steam Museum is a testament to Victorian engineering. It houses the world's largest collection of steam engines. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday but the engines only run at the weekends, with a steam railway bringing out the child in everyone on Sundays from April to October.

Historical Records

Following the success of family history TV programmes, and the power of the internet, genealogy has become an increasingly popular pastime. If you're on a quest to discover your heritage, or even look at MI5 files and war records, the National Archives is a treasure trove of historical documents. Bring your own pen and paper for note taking, and proof of identity to show on arrival. Children under 14 are not admitted unless supervised and accompanied by an adult.

Eating, Drinking and Sleeping

Strand on the Green is an idyllic spot on the riverside with pubs lining the path. Sit at a table outside, such as at the Bell and Crown, and you'll forget you're in a bustling capital city.

For a great Sunday lunch, head for The Greyhound on Kew Green. For something more sophisticated, hop over the river and try the Grounds Coffee & Wine Bar in Brentford.

If you need a hotel, try The Victoria on West Temple Street in Sheen. A gastropub with accommodation, it has simple but stylish rooms.

Getting There

Travel by Tube to Kew Gardens (south of the river), or by train to Kew Bridge or Brentford stations (both on the north side). See our travel section for more information.

Kew Bridge is the only crossing point on this part of the river.