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Towpath to reopen 8 November 2025

Celebrate the re-opening of the towpath

The Thames towpath between Richmond Lock and Kew Gardens is set to reopen on Saturday 8 November, weather and river conditions permitting – marking a major milestone in restoring this much-loved riverside route.

This follows the towpath closure almost a year ago when the it was breached during extreme weather and tide conditions, as we originally reported here with our last update here

According to Richmond Council, work crews are now completing the final stages of the repair.

In a recent statement the Council states:

“The short delay [from the planned reopening date of October 31] was due to challenging tidal and ground conditions, which required additional piling and reinforcement to ensure the long-term stability of the path.  The improvement works include reinstating the culvert and causeway – designed to safely overtop first during high tides, helping to reduce erosion elsewhere along the towpath and direct water towards the newly reinforced section. The project also delivers new safety and ecological features that make the path stronger, greener, and more enjoyable for everyone.

Images shows two black dogs sitting in front of a black metal safety gate. To the left is a red sign Danger Deep Excavation Keep Out Follow Diversion. To the right is a yellow sign which reads Kew towpth closed no access to richmond please follow diversion route. The hoarding is green. The river can be seen in the background running along side the path

The Kew Society is also pleased that, along-side the main repair work, additional improvements have been made along the wider towpath between Richmond Lock and the breach site – clearing blocked culverts and stabilising sections of the path.

We hope that these efforts will futureproof the borough’s riverside, ensuring it remains safe and accessible.

We’re looking forward to celebrating the reopening of this popular route, hosted by Richmond Council.

Join the celebration!

When: 10am on Saturday 8 November 2025
Where: near the Richmond Lock end of the towpath.

See you there!

Image from council video showing a large 10 metre wide breach in the bank of the Thames, flooded with water

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