Ham and Petersham, Richmond upon Thames

Clare Balding joins Zoe Mallett and Rose Eskafi for a walk in Richmond, London exploring how urban green spaces can offer connection and community. Zoe and Rose are both psychologists and founded the walking group, City Daze, with the purpose of combatting loneliness. At the beginning of each walk prompt-cards are handed out with suggestions of questions to ask the other walkers. The idea is that everyone has something in common and this is a short-cut to finding out what that is. It started in London as a small Community Interest Company, and has now spread to Berlin and Amsterdam with hundreds of people walking each week at the same time.

As they wander, Clare hears from Zoe and Rose about their shared background in psychology, mindfulness and community building. Clare also meets regular City Daze walkers to find out how the group benefits them.

This scenic circular walk begins at Ham House, follows the River Thames past Petersham Meadows, and climbs into Terrace Gardens for panoramic views. The loop then winds inland through Ham Common and Ham Lands before returning to the start.

They met at Ham Street Car Park, Richmond, TW10 7RS

Presenter: Clare Balding
Producer: Karen Gregor