Queen Elizabeth's Almshouses, Richmond

Queen Elizabeth's Almshouses is a residential complex offering sheltered housing for older people in Richmond. The site includes individual homes, communal gardens, and facilities designed to accommodate visitors and residents with varying mobility needs.

Founded in 1600 by Sir George Wright to shelter eight poor women, the almshouses were reconstructed in 1767 using public donations. The buildings were completely rebuilt in 1955 after suffering damage during World War II, and continue to serve their charitable purpose today.

These almshouses represent a long-standing British tradition of charitable support that provides safe housing for residents facing difficult circumstances. Visitors can see how this commitment to community care shapes the layout and shared spaces you encounter when you walk through the grounds.

The site is managed by Richmond Charities and visitors should remember this is an active residential community where privacy is important. The location is fairly easy to reach on foot and has been designed to provide access for people with varying mobility needs.

The present buildings date from 1955 and stand as a result of World War II damage that led to complete reconstruction. This postwar architecture shows how a centuries-old charitable mission was preserved and rebuilt for a new generation.