A Royal Journey Along the Thames
Imagine a journey that threads together three of London’s most historic riverside gems, offering views of roaming deer, ancient market squares, and Tudor palaces, all for the price of a morning coffee. While the riverboats that cruise this stretch of the Thames are famous, there is a “secret” river tour that runs on tarmac rather than water.
By combining two of London’s most scenic bus routes—the majestic 65 and the riverside 411—you can create a seamless “River Tour” that rivals any cruise. Operated by Transport for London, this route offers a front-row seat to the leafy, regal charm of South West London. Best of all, thanks to the Hopper Fare, the entire trip costs just £1.75.
This isn’t just a bus ride; it’s a journey through time, connecting the hunting grounds of kings, the bustling markets of the middle ages, and the opulent courts of the Tudors.
What makes this route special?
The “River Tour” is unique because it captures the transition from London’s urban energy to the pastoral beauty of the home counties. You start in the chic, hillside town of Richmond, plunge through the “green tunnel” of Petersham and Ham, emerge into the ancient market town of Kingston, and finish at the golden gates of Hampton Court.
Unlike the train, which cuts through back gardens and cuttings, these buses follow the lay of the land (and the river). From the top deck of the 65, you are high enough to peek over the walls of royal parks and catch shimmering glimpses of the Thames twisting through the landscape. It is widely considered one of the best value sightseeing trips in the capital.
Route breakdown: The journey unfolds
The “River Tour” is best experienced in two distinct, scenic legs.
Leg 1: Richmond to Kingston (Route 65)
Your journey begins in Richmond, a town that feels more like a resort than a London borough. Board the Number 65 (towards Kingston) near Richmond Station or the Quadrant.
As the bus climbs comfortably out of the town centre, keep your eyes peeled on the left. You’ll pass the iconic Richmond Hill, famous for the only view in England protected by an Act of Parliament—a sweeping vista of the Thames winding through meadows that has inspired painters for centuries.
The bus then dips down into Petersham, navigating a road so narrow and leafy it feels like a country lane. This is the “Green Tunnel.” On your left, the ancient walls of Richmond Park (home to herds of red and fallow deer) slide by; on your right, the water meadows leading down to the river. You’ll pass the dysart Arms and the road to Ham House, a stunning 17th-century National Trust property.
As you approach Kingston, the scenery shifts from rural idle to bustling history. The bus terminates in Kingston, placing you perfectly for the next leg of your adventure.
The Interchange: Kingston upon Thames
Don’t rush your connection! You are now in Kingston, the place where Saxon kings were once crowned. The bus station is just a short stroll from the ancient Market Place, which still hosts a vibrant daily market. It’s the perfect spot to grab a pastry or wander down to the riverside walk to see the swans before catching your next bus.
Leg 2: Kingston to Hampton Court (Route 411)
From Kingston’s Cromwell Road bus station (or stops near the bridge), board the Number 411 towards West Molesey.
This short but sweet leg is all about the river. As the bus swings out of Kingston, you’ll cross Hampton Court Bridge. Look left for a stunning view of the Thames teeming with rowers and narrowboats. As you descend from the bridge, the bus enters the domain of Henry VIII.
To your right is Bushy Park, another royal hunting ground famous for its Chestnut Avenue and roaming deer. To your left, the river flows silently by. The route drops you right outside the magnificent Hampton Court Palace. Stepping off the bus here, with the red-brick Tudor chimneys towering above you, is an arrival fit for royalty.
Practical details and tickets
One of the greatest advantages of this route is the simplicity of the ticketing system.
- The Hopper Fare: London’s “Hopper Fare” allows you to make unlimited bus journeys within one hour for a single flat fee of £1.75. As long as you touch in on your second bus (the 411) within 60 minutes of touching in on your first (the 65), the second ride is free.
- Payment: You can use a contactless bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or an Oyster card. You cannot pay with cash on the bus.
- Frequency:
- Route 65: Runs incredibly frequently, often every 6–10 minutes during the day, 24 hours a day.
- Route 411: Runs every 12–15 minutes during the day.
- Note: Both routes are reliable, meaning you rarely have to wait long at the interchange in Kingston.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit Upstairs: The Route 65 uses double-decker buses. For the best experience, head immediately to the top deck and try to snag the front seats. The view as you drive through the tree canopy in Petersham is magical from this height.
- Timing the Hopper: The journey from Richmond to Kingston typically takes 25–35 minutes. This leaves you plenty of time to catch the 411 at Kingston and still qualify for the free transfer.
- The Direct Alternative: If you are in a rush, the R68 bus runs directly from Richmond to Hampton Court. However, it takes a slightly different route via Twickenham on the other side of the river. While still scenic, it misses the intimate “country lane” feel of the Petersham road and bypasses the historic centre of Kingston. We recommend the 65+411 combination for the superior sightseeing experience.
- Market Days: Try to travel on a day when Kingston Market is in full swing (daily, but busiest Fri-Sun) to add a buzzing atmosphere to your interchange.
Planning a day out on this route
Here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your River Tour:
- 10:00 AM: Start in Richmond. Grab a coffee near the Green and perhaps take a quick walk down to the riverside to see Richmond Bridge.
- 11:00 AM: Board the 65 towards Kingston. Enjoy the ride past the Star and Garter Home and the glorious greenery of Ham.
- 11:40 AM: Arrive in Kingston. Use the 20-minute gap to walk to the Coronation Stone or look at the river from the pedestrian bank.
- 12:15 PM: Board the 411 for the short hop across the bridge.
- 12:30 PM: Arrive at Hampton Court. Spend the afternoon exploring Henry VIII’s kitchens, the Haunted Gallery, and the world-famous maze.
- Evening: After exploring, walk across the road to explore the antique shops and riverside pubs of East Molesey (Hampton Court Village) before heading home.
Year-round appeal
This route is a delight in every season. In summer, the canopy of trees in Petersham provides cool, dappled shade, and the river sparkles in the sun. In autumn, the route is a blaze of copper and gold as the ancient oaks of Richmond Park and Ham Common turn colour.
Even in winter, the route has a cosy charm. The buses are warm and well-lit, and arriving at Hampton Court when the palace is illuminated for Christmas offers a Dickensian atmosphere that is hard to beat. Because the views are largely of nature and architecture, they don’t “close” for the season, making this a reliable day out 365 days a year.
So, leave the car at home. With a contactless card in your pocket and a sense of adventure, the River Tour awaits—a royal procession through London’s greenest suburbs, for less than the price of a postcard.
