One of the best things about getting off at Richmond train station for the first time is the friendly volunteer-run kiosk that greets you with all the information you need to explore the area. It's not a service you get at many tube or overground stations.

To many locals rushing in and out we may forget the service that's on offer in there, but even the most seasoned Richmonder might just find out something they didn't know.

The Visitor Information Kiosk is managed by Visit Richmond.

One local volunteer is retired teacher Lee Pascal, who has lived in Richmond on and off for 54 years!

Lee said that the volunteers at the stand take pride in their in-depth knowledge of Richmond, but also have a genuine interest in the history of the area.

He said: "All of the volunteers are local residents with a good knowledge of the local area.

"We provide maps and brochures of Richmond and we keep up to date with businesses that are opening.

"Many of us are interested in the history of Richmond too. We offer a self-guided tour including things like a history of the green."

advertisement

Lee said he is most often asked for directions to Richmond Park, the river, and Kew Gardens. He gives a lot of advice on catching transport as many visitors don't quite realise quite how far Richmond Park is from the train station.

More than just local history experts, volunteers are local restaurant connoisseurs, too. Lee keeps an eye on which restaurants have gluten free menus, do good vegan food, and cater for other dietary requirements.

"People do come and ask me 'where can I get vegetarian food?' or fish and chips, and I always give a selection," Lee said. "What I like might not be what everyone likes, and we consider it a function of ours to support local businesses."

Lee fell in love with Richmond while visiting in the 60s.

"I came here for three months back in 1967," he said, now in his 54th year here.

"I like Richmond because it's got everything – it's got the park, the river, a great variety of restaurants, and its very well contained. Everything is within a five-to ten- minute walk."

Lee is a retired teacher and specialised in working with pupils with special needs. His work with dyslexic students in particular informs the way he works at the kiosk. Giving large amounts of new information and instructions can be confusing so he makes sure to use a multi-sensory approach to his advice, using his hands to point, the Richmond map, and explaining verbally.

So if you're in need of a new walk or you've got visitors coming to stay, the Visitor Information Kiosk is a good place to start for inspiration.

advertisement

Opening Hours: