Richmond upon Thames has once again been recognised as one of the country's greenest boroughs, after 24 of its parks, greens, and commons were awarded coveted Green Flags. 

The results, announced today (Tuesday, 17 July) as part of the annual national Green Flag Awards, highlight the country's best-managed and most welcoming green spaces. 

Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council and Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, said: "Our parks are living proof of what communities can achieve when we work together. 

"These awards celebrate the dedication of our staff, volunteers and local groups who maintain and improve our green spaces year-round. From new wildflower meadows to inclusive play areas, Richmond continues to set the benchmark for quality and accessibility." 

Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council and Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee (Credit: Rihcmond Council)

Richmond upon Thames is home to more than 2,000 hectares of green space, including extensive parklands, nature reserves, waterways, and woodlands.  

The borough has been awarded Green Flag Awards for over 20 years, with this year's total of 24 marking its highest to date, following the addition of two new awards for Barnes Green and Grove Gardens. 

"Richmond upon Thames is home to more parks than any other London borough," added Councillor Neden-Watts. 

"Managing such a vast and diverse portfolio presents a unique challenge, and these Green Flag Awards recognise the council's success in doing so to an exceptional standard." 

The Green Flag Award is the national standard for well-managed parks and green spaces, judged on criteria including safety, cleanliness, community involvement, sustainability and biodiversity.

More than 540 hectares of Richmond's parks and gardens – from the Thames Riverside at Barnes to the Terrace Gardens near Richmond Town Centre – have been recognised for excellence this year. 

"Green spaces are essential for mental and physical health, supporting everything from weekend picnics to wildlife conservation," said Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council. 

"Increasing our awards total reflects our ongoing investment and innovative approaches – from sustainable water management to community gardening schemes." 

Highlights of Richmond's 2025 Green Flag success include: 

• Barnes Green – recognised for its historic charm, mature trees and tranquil pond, forming a vital green link to Barnes Common. 
• Grove Gardens – celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and contribution to the borough's network of cherished community parks. 

Richmond Council has invested more than £450,000 in park upgrades this year alone, delivering improved pathways, planting schemes and community facilities across the borough.

A new tree planting programme will launch this autumn, adding 1,000 trees to parklands and streets to further grow the borough's green network.