Ham House and Garden is a National Trust property on the Thames in Ham, Richmond. Built in 1610 and remodelled in the 17th century, the house retains historic paintings, furniture and textiles, with richly decorated rooms and a grand staircase to explore. Outside, formal gardens include a walled kitchen garden, an orangery and quieter wilderness areas. Allow time for both: the house brings Stuart-era interiors into view, while the grounds offer room to walk, see the planting and pause at the café beside the walled garden.
A Stuart house on the Thames
Ham House was built in 1610 and remodelled around 1670. Its position beside the Thames, near Richmond, places the house within a landscape of riverside paths and gardens. The property is known for preserving much of its 17th-century character, along with paintings, furniture and textiles collected over generations.
The house gives a view of aristocratic life during the Stuart period through its rooms and furnishings. Its history is also tied to the court: the house became a place for entertaining in the 1660s. The collection and interiors help explain the wealth and status associated with the household.
Rooms and collections
Inside, look for the paintings displayed against dark panelling, historic textiles and furniture, and the detailed decoration of the rooms. The Long Gallery and Great Staircase are among the house’s notable interior spaces. Information boards help visitors follow the story as they move through the building, and guided tours add context about the house’s past and the work required to care for it.
Some tours focus on selected rooms, and tour arrangements can depend on the season. Check the National Trust’s current information before visiting if a particular tour is important to your plans.
Formal gardens and the kitchen garden
The gardens were laid out in the 17th century and retain much of their historic arrangement. Their formal sections include clipped topiary and a Cherry Garden divided by box hedges. The walled kitchen garden grows produce used by the on-site café, alongside fruit trees and seasonal flowers.
Further into the grounds, the Wilderness provides a quieter setting. The garden also includes an orangery and other historic garden structures. Paths connect the separate areas, so allow time to explore beyond the parts closest to the house. Outdoor games, including badminton and croquet, are available in the grounds.
Planning your visit
A visit can combine the interiors, gardens and a break at the café. The café sits by the walled garden, and homemade soup is among the food noted at the property. There is also a shop selling plants, books and small souvenirs.
The house and garden are at Ham Street, Ham, in Richmond. Free parking is available nearby, with accessible parking reported directly outside the house. The entrance and visitor facilities include wheelchair-accessible access and toilets. Dogs are not allowed inside the house; they can visit the garden, café and shop on a lead.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long should I spend at Ham House and Garden?
Allow around two hours for the house, then extra time for the gardens. A total of two to three hours gives you time to see both.
What can you see inside Ham House?
The house has 17th-century interiors, including paintings, furniture and textiles. Notable spaces include the Long Gallery and Great Staircase.
Are guided tours available at Ham House?
Guided tours are available and provide historical context and information about conservation. Tours may cover selected rooms, so check current arrangements before your visit.
Can dogs visit Ham House and Garden?
Dogs are not allowed inside the house. They can visit the garden, café and shop on a lead.
