Four centuries ago, Charles I built a wall round Richmond Park to keep his deer in. He installed ladders over the walls to provide access to the rights of way over the land. Subsequent monarchs and park rangers tried to deny access to the hoi polloi, until a brewer by the name of John Lewis finally obtained a court order that kept the rights of way open.
This cache is hidden right by the wall. But is it north of the wall or south of it? Is it inside the park or outside? On the side of the monarch or the side of the commoners? Is it on East Sheen Common or in the part of Richmond Park known as "The Bog"? This is how the cache was presented when it was first set. Regrettably The Royal Parks have now confirmed that they have banned geocaching anywhere within their parks, so I need to answer the question myself - the cache is hidden on East Sheen Common, and not in the park.
The last of the ladder stiles was removed about 150 years ago. You can be sure that if it was still present I would have found some way to present the cache that would have required you climb over the wall .
Parking is available in Richmond Park at N51 27.403 W000 16.132, but note that the park is closed to vehicles at night. The closing time varies from 16:00 in early winter to 21:00 in early summer. If you visit in the evening you should check the closing time, which is available on the internet and is posted on the entrance gates.
Summary:
Nice walk? | Yes, particularly if you approach through the park. |
Great views? | Nice views in the park. |
Interesting location? | Not particularly. |
One of a series? | No, unless you count 2 as a series :-) |
Cache trail? | No. |
Unusual hide? | No. |
Cache and Dash? | No. |
Size/Type? | Regular, black taped, plastic clip top box. |