Make a day of it

Local walks / cycle rides

Just across the road from Orange Pekoe, you’ll find the beautiful river Thames and its leafy, unspoilt towpath, which provides the perfect opportunity for a stroll or cycle ride, long or short. An hour’s walk (or 15-minute cycle) in one direction will take you the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, passing The National Archives and the historic houses of Strand-on-the-Green on your way. The opposite direction will take you to Hammersmith (50 minutes on foot, 20 minutes by bike) and Putney beyond, passing Fuller’s famous Griffin Brewery, historic pubs and the stunning houses of Chiswick Mall. Cycling hotspot Richmond Park is a mere 15 minutes by bike from us too.

The Barnes Trail

This 2.3-mile walking trail (and optional 3-mile extension) is a brilliant way to discover Barnes. The route is circular, so it doesn’t matter where you start – just follow the silver ‘Barnes Trail’ discs set in the pavement. Along the way, oar-shaped signs point out places of interest, and also feature QR codes which provide additional information. If you walk quickly, you can complete the trail in under an hour, but why not take your time, soak up the surroundings, and enjoy the sights as you go. On the map, Orange Pekoe is located right next to spot number 7. You can download the trail map (and a fun quiz) here

Barnes Farmers Market

One of the oldest farmers markets in London takes place in Barnes every Saturday from 10am-2pm. Come rain or shine, around 20 top producers from across the country come and sell their produce, ranging from award-winning organic and free range meats, fresh fish, homemade juices, fruit and veg, artisan cheeses and more. A 10-minute walk from Orange Pekoe. Essex House Surgery, Station Road, SW13 0LW (opposite Barnes Pond) 

The Duck Pond

Barnes’ beautiful duck pond is at the centre of village life and is teeming with lovely ducks, majestic swans and other wildlife. If you’d like to feed Barnes’ feathery residents, you can buy small bags of bird seed from the OSO Arts Centre and/or Charles Banks estate agent, both overlooking the pond. A 10-minute walk from Orange Pekoe. Opposite 7 Church Rd, SW13 9HE 

WWT London Wetland Centre

Run by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT), Barnes’ London Wetland Centre is a very special place to watch wildlife and immerse yourself in nature. Roam the beautiful walkways amongst the lakes and pools of this 105-acre wildlife haven, perfect for spotting birds, amphibians, bats, butterflies and more. There is a resident pair of otters too! A true escape from the city. A 20-minute walk from Orange Pekoe. Queen Elizabeth's Walk, SW13 9WT