01/02/2022
Getting to Chiswick House from Turnham Green: A Comprehensive Guide
Planning a visit to the magnificent Chiswick House and Gardens and wondering about the best way to get there, especially if you're arriving via Turnham Green tube station? You're in the right place. This guide will break down all the essential travel information, ensuring your journey is smooth and stress-free. We'll cover walking distances, bus routes, driving considerations, and even parking tips, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning architecture and beautiful grounds of Chiswick House.
Understanding Chiswick House and Gardens
Before we dive into the travel details, let's briefly touch upon what makes Chiswick House so special. Located on Burlington Lane, Chiswick, London W4 2RP, it's a magnificent Palladian villa, widely considered the finest example of Neo-Palladian architecture in London. Designed by Lord Burlington and completed in 1729, the house and its expansive 26.33-hectare grounds were brought to life by the talents of architect and landscape designer William Kent. It's a truly iconic landmark offering a glimpse into 18th-century grandeur.
Your Journey from Turnham Green Station
Turnham Green is the nearest tube station for many visitors heading to Chiswick House, particularly those travelling from central London. The District Line serves this station, and you'll want to ensure your train is heading towards Ealing Broadway or Richmond.
Walking from Turnham Green to Chiswick House
For those who enjoy a stroll and want to soak in the local atmosphere, Chiswick House is approximately a 20-minute walk from Turnham Green station. This is a pleasant route that allows you to see more of the charming Chiswick neighbourhood. Follow the signs and use a mapping app if needed to navigate the streets. It's a straightforward walk, mostly along established routes.
Bus Services from Turnham Green
If walking isn't your preference, or if you're short on time, the bus is a convenient option. The E3 bus route is your key here. You can catch the E3 bus from Turnham Green station, and it will take you directly to a stop near Chiswick House. Look for Stop L, which is conveniently located for accessing the gardens.
For comprehensive and up-to-the-minute information on bus times and to plan your specific route, the Transport for London (TfL) Journey Planner is an invaluable tool. Simply input your starting point (Turnham Green station) and your destination (Chiswick House and Gardens) to receive tailored travel advice.
Other Public Transport Options
While Turnham Green is the closest tube station, Chiswick House is also accessible via the local train station, also named Chiswick. From Chiswick station, it's a 13-minute walk to the Burlington Lane Gate of Chiswick House and Gardens.
Several bus routes also serve the Chiswick House area, offering alternatives depending on your starting point:
- 190: Hammersmith – Richmond
- E3: Greenford – Chiswick
- 533: Chiswick – Mortlake Cemetery (operates every 17 minutes during peak morning and evening periods)
Again, the TfL Journey Planner is your best friend for navigating these bus routes effectively.
Cycling to Chiswick House
Chiswick House and Gardens welcomes cyclists. There are bike racks available at various park entrances, as well as closer to the House and Café. While cycling is permitted within the grounds, it’s essential to respect the garden’s rules. Cyclists are asked to stick to the tarmac paths at the edge of the Gardens and avoid cycling on the grass or walking paths. This helps to preserve the delicate landscape. Please also refrain from chaining or leaning bicycles against buildings, railings, trees, or masonry to prevent any damage.
Driving to Chiswick House
If you're travelling by car, navigating to Chiswick House requires a bit of pre-planning, especially with recent road changes and the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).
Please be aware that due to London’s Streetspace plan, Staveley Road and Burlington Road have entry restrictions for non-residents. It's advisable to check Hounslow’s council website for the most current information on how these restrictions might affect your journey.
Chiswick House and Gardens is sign-posted on brown tourist boards on the A4, coming from the west of the Hogarth Roundabout (junction with the A316). For SatNav users, the postcode W4 2QN is recommended for Google Maps. The geographical coordinates are Latitude: 51.483279, Longitude: -0.258700.
Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)
A crucial consideration for drivers is the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). As of 25 October 2021, the ULEZ expanded significantly. It now covers a larger area up to, but not including, the North Circular Road (A406) and South Circular Road (A205). If your vehicle does not meet the ULEZ emissions standards, you will be liable for a daily charge. You can find more detailed information on the TfL website regarding ULEZ expansion and compliance.
Parking at Chiswick House
Parking is available for visitors, but it’s managed by Hounslow Council and operates on a cashless system.
Payment System: All parking payments are now made via the ‘paybyphone’ app. It is highly recommended to download this app and familiarise yourself with it before you arrive. The location code for Chiswick House car park is 803065.
Car Park Location: The public car park is situated just off the westbound A4 and is clearly marked by a brown tourist board entrance sign. The car park itself is a 5-10 minute walk from the House, with paths that are uneven gravel.
Car Park Facilities: The car park has 60 spaces, including 3 designated disabled spaces. It is operational daily from 8 am to 6 pm, including Public and Bank Holidays.
Charges and Membership: Please note that all visitors, including English Heritage and Chiswick House and Gardens members, are required to pay for parking. There is no free parking available. The income generated from parking charges contributes directly to the upkeep of the car park and the preservation of the beautiful gardens.
Coach Parking
There is no coach parking within the gardens themselves. Coaches are advised to drop visitors off at the bus stop located on the A316, just before the Hogarth roundabout. From here, visitors can access the grounds via the Great Chertsey Road Gate, with Chiswick House directly ahead. Coaches can then park on Staveley Road. While there are new council restrictions on Staveley Road, these typically include an exception for buses, which encompasses coaches. Drivers can also access the grounds directly via the Staveley Road entrance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How far is Chiswick House from Turnham Green station?
A: Chiswick House is approximately a 20-minute walk from Turnham Green tube station.
Q2: Can I get a bus from Turnham Green to Chiswick House?
A: Yes, the E3 bus route runs from Turnham Green and stops near Chiswick House (Stop L).
Q3: Do I need to pay for parking at Chiswick House?
A: Yes, there is a charge for parking. Payments are cashless and made via the ‘paybyphone’ app.
Q4: Is Chiswick House within the ULEZ zone?
A: Yes, Chiswick House is within the expanded ULEZ zone. Ensure your vehicle meets the emissions standards or be prepared to pay the daily charge.
Q5: Are there cycle racks available at Chiswick House?
A: Yes, cycle racks are provided at park entrances and near the House and Café.
Useful Travel Tools
To ensure your journey is as seamless as possible, make use of these helpful tools:
- TfL Journey Planner: For comprehensive public transport planning.
- Google Maps/SatNav: For driving directions using postcode W4 2QN.
- ‘paybyphone’ app: For cashless parking payments.
- Hounslow Council Website: For the latest road restriction information.
- TfL Website: For detailed ULEZ information.
By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to reach Chiswick House and Gardens from Turnham Green, ready to explore this architectural gem and its beautiful surroundings.
If you want to read more articles similar to Chiswick House & Turnham Green: Your Travel Guide, you can visit the Transport category.