Richmond upon Thames with Poppy Factory

Approximate Journey Time: 1 hrs 50 mins

Time at Destination:  5 hours

Comfort Stop: Yes

 

Spend time in beautiful Richmond upon Thames, one of London’s most charming riverside destinations. With its elegant streets, boutique shops, cafés and scenic walks along the Thames, Richmond offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

 

Later in the day we visit the historic Poppy Factory, where wounded, injured and sick veterans are supported into employment and meaningful work. During this fascinating and inspiring guided visit, you will learn about the history of the iconic Remembrance poppy, see how poppies and wreaths are made, and hear the remarkable stories of the veterans who work there. The visit offers a unique insight into an important British charity and the ongoing support it provides to the Armed Forces community.

 

In 2026, The Poppy Factory marks 100 years in Richmond — a century of supporting veterans and their families to build brighter futures after service.

From our move from the Old Kent Road to Richmond in 1926, to the thriving community and visitor centre we have today, our story is rooted in this borough, while our impact is now felt nationally. Throughout our centenary year, we’ll be sharing that story through special events, discovery sessions and open days, inviting everyone to learn more about our story and the people we support.

 

Accessibility

The Poppy Factory is fully accessible for wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility, with lift access available throughout the building. Seating is provided during the guided tour where possible. Please note that the visit includes periods of standing and some walking between areas of the factory. Accessible toilet facilities are available on site.

 

Richmond upon Thames is fairly accessible and has many flat, well-maintained areas. The biggest challenge is the hilly terrain in some pockets, especially around Richmond Hill and parts of Richmond Park — but there are plenty of alternative flat routes and accessible public spaces.

The Poppy Factory is a British charity and manufacturing organization dedicated to supporting veterans with health conditions in their employment journeys. Established in 1922 in Richmond, London, the factory was originally created to provide employment opportunities for wounded soldiers returning from World War I. Its primary role was to produce the poppies used in the annual Remembrance Day appeal, a symbol of remembrance for those who died in military service, inspired by the poppies that grew on the battlefields of Flanders.

 

The Poppy Factory was founded by Major George Howson, a British Army officer and engineer, to provide work for disabled veterans who faced difficulties re-entering the workforce due to injuries or mental health issues. From its inception, the factory produced artificial poppies and wreaths, becoming the main supplier for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal, which raises funds for veterans' support services.

 

The red poppy has become a powerful symbol of remembrance in the UK, and the Poppy Factory is central to its production. Traditionally, millions of poppies are made each year for Remembrance Day, with veterans contributing to their manufacture. The factory also produces wreaths used in official ceremonies, such as those placed at the Cenotaph in London during national remembrance events.

 

Today, the Poppy Factory continues to be a vital resource for veterans, but its mission has expanded. Beyond producing poppies, the organization now focuses on helping veterans with physical and mental health conditions find and sustain meaningful employment across a wide range of industries, not just within the factory. This support includes career coaching, advice, and tailored assistance, helping veterans across the UK to overcome barriers to employment.

 

The Richmond-based factory remains operational, but the organization’s outreach has grown, with employment support services now being provided to veterans nationwide. Veterans who are unable to work in traditional settings due to their disabilities can still engage in work through the factory's remote poppy-making programs.