Certainly not a park that always comes to mind when thinking of Royal London Parks, but Bushy Park, at 1,100 acres (445 hectares) is the second largest Royal park in London (Richmond is the largest).

Lying just north of Hampton Court Palace, there are plenty of things to do in this park.  Key attractions include the deer parks, Diana fountain, fishing, model boating ponds, horse riding, swimming pool, cycling path and sporting events. 

There is a cafe at the Pheasantry Welcome Centre and there are several refreshment centres in the park serving food and drink.   The park is home to the Teddington Rugby and Hockey clubs, and four cricket clubs. 

One of the highlights is Chestnut Avenue, laid out in 1699 by Sir Christopher Wren as part of the design for a grand approach to Hampton Court.  There are also both woodland and water gardens to explore.  Five historical self-guided audio tours are available (see the Welcome Centre for details).  Bushy Park is one of only two Royal parks open 24 hours a day (Green Park is the other).

Go to their website for more details: http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/bushy-park/

Closest Rail: Hampton Court, Hampton, Hampton Wick, or Teddington (depending upon the point of entry to the park)