What to Do in Richmond, Nelson’s Large Small Town
Richmond has the best of every world: the conveniences of a large town with plenty of shops and eateries to explore while keeping its undeniable small-town charm. It’s a hotspot for foodies, with wineries and breweries being part of the restaurant scene. Those seeking a bit of adventure will also find it in Richmond thanks to it being a major highlight of the Great Taste Trail, having awesome cycle trails on Rabbit Island, and being just a stone’s throw away from the wilderness wonderland of the Mt Richmond Forest Park. Discover what you could be getting up to in this fun town in the Nelson Tasman region with this list of things to do in Richmond.
1. Take a Stroll Around Washbourn Gardens
Wander through this picturesque part of Richmond with plenty to see! Washbourn Gardens is full of colour year-round with stunning floral displays in the Fushcia House, The Fernery and the Begonia House. Check out the historical Old Richmond Gaol here too.
Location: Oxford Street
© Pixnio2. Tour the Vineyards and Wineries
Richmond is the main hub of the Waimea Plains, a thriving wine-growing region with plenty of wineries opening their cellar doors for wine tastings. See our 23 Nelson Wineries on the Nelson Wine Trail for Richmond wineries well worth checking out!
Location: All over Richmond.
© George Guille Media - Nelson Tasman3. Sample Craft Beer
It’s not just wine that Richmond is crazy about, but there are also a couple of great breweries to discover. Do a craft beer tasting at the Sprig & Fern Tavern or combine your beer with a wood-fired pizza at Eddyline. Find more inspiration in our 8 Craft Breweries in Nelson You Have to Try.
Location: All over Richmond.
© Sprig and Fern - Nelson Tasman4. Check Out the Local Art Galleries
Richmond’s creativity is not only found in the flavours but in the local art galleries. See glassblowing in action at the Hoglund Glassblowing Studio or see unique ceramics and pottery at the Alchemy Art Centre. Check out the 11 Nelson Art Galleries That Will Inspire You for more galleries to visit.
Location: All over Richmond.
© Pexels5. Go Hiking in the Mt Richmond Forest Park
Richmond is one of the best bases for accessing the stunning wilderness area of the Mt Richmond Forest Park. Enjoy full-day or multi-day hiking on the Alpine Route, offering outstanding views of the Waimea Plains and the Kaikoura Ranges. The complete route usually takes four days to complete.
Location: Hacket Road end, 16km from Richmond
© Schwede66 on Wikipedia6. Cycle the Great Taste Trail
Richmond is one of the highlights of the New Zealand Great Rides, the Tasman Great Taste Trail. The 174km easy scenic cycle journey takes approximately four days to complete, with day rides to enjoy in between. Richmond is situated on the point where the trail splits, leading either to Mapua along the coast or inland toward Brightwater and its surrounding vineyards.
Location: Richmond
© Dean McKenzie - Tourism NZ7. Play Golf
One of the Nelson Tasman region’s most picturesque golf courses is situated right here in Richmond. So if you want to try New Zealand’s most popular sport for yourself, Richmond is a good place to do it. The Greenacres Golf Course is located on its very own island with views of the ocean and out to the Kaikoura Ranges. The golf course is well-equipped for visitors, with club and cart hire available.
Location: 4 Barnett Avenue
© Pexels8. Visit Wakefield
Just inland from Richmond is a historical little town well worth checking out while you’re in the area. Wakefield is one of the oldest European settlements on the South Island, holding New Zealand’s oldest church and longest-running school. Learn about the history at the Higgins Heritage Park where you can see steam engines in action and do unique activities like make your own knife using blacksmith tools! Learn more in our 5 Fun Things to Do in Wakefield & Tapawera.
Location: State Highway 6, 14km south of Richmond
© dws~11 on Wikipedia9. Cycle to Rabbit Island
A great side trip to the Great Taste Trail, or if you’re looking for a cruisy day out, set your sights on Rabbit Island. Attached to the mainland by road, Rabbit Island is easy to cycle or drive to from Richmond. The island features picturesque beaches and flowing mountain bike trails through the forests, suitable for families.
Location: Redwood Road
© George Guille Media - Nelson Tasman10. Check Out Richmond Market Day
If you’re lucky enough to be in the Nelson Tasman region at the end of December, don’t miss Richmond Market Day. The annual event boasts being the largest market at the top of the South Island with hundreds of stalls, street eats and entertainment!
Location: Sundial Square
© Nelson TasmanMore Things to Do Near Richmond
That’s it for the best things to do in Richmond. Find more activities for your travels in the 51 Best Things to Do in the South Island.
