The Terrace Gardens and adjacent Terrace Field, overlooking the River Thames, were formerly brickworks.
Today the Gardens are famous for their seasonal bedding, shrubberies, rockery and rose garden, all set amongst fine trees and sloping lawns. Close to the main entrance in Petersham Road is a conservatory with tropical plants. On the balustrade seating area on the top terrace is a formal pool with its modern statue of Aphrodite (affectionately known as Bulbous Betty). From the gravel walk at the summit of Richmond Hill many local landmarks can be viewed through a telescope situated near the boundary hedge. On a clear day you can see Windsor Castle! A viewing panel is also provided, showing other key landmarks of interest.During the 18th century various noble owners in the area had fine houses erected, all now sadly demolished. However some features of the gardens’ history do remain, including the re-sited statue of the River God and an ice house set in the slope to the rear of the thatched summer house.
