Richmond borough's rich history from Royals to writers, fabulous properties to gardens and The Poppy Factory are to be celebrated in the 'Know Your Place' festival.

A series of events and talks through September will open the eyes of residents to the heritage on their doorsteps.

Among the many initiatives, people will be given the chance to walk in the footsteps of Charles Dickens through Petersham or enjoy the revived Marble Hill House, home to Henrietta Howard.

As part of a packed schedule through September and October, the National Archives in Kew are running two local history weekends.

The events - run in partnership with Richmond Local History Society and Kew Society - will focus on the revelations of the 1922 census.

They promise to shine a spotlight on the arrival of refugees from the Russian revolution, as well local characters, from a famous showman to artists, the female publicans and more.

A series of talks and open days will focus on, for example, how Marble Hill house and gardens have been revived by English Heritage, and the history of Twickenham from highway robberies to the eels of Eel Pie Island.

The recent discovery of a cache of colour images of Hampton in the 1960s are the focus of a heavily illustrated talk by local historian John Sheaf.

It will feature the area's shops and pubs and will also look at the flower nurseries that existed at the time, before looking at the leisure activities on the Thames, starting with Bushy Park and going up river.

Residents can learn about the Medieval Manor of Ham, the story of The Poppy Factory, which is celebrating its centenary, and even the 'godfather of British comedy', Sid Field, who lived in Richmond at the height of his fame.

A number of guided walks are planned, including one following the routes followed by Dickens in Petersham, which inspired and were featured in several of his novels, such as Nicholas Nickleby and Great Expectations.

Families and children will enjoy Families in the Forest, where visitors will be invited explore the Orleans House Gallery woods.

All the details for the festival are available here - https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/libraries/branch_libraries/local_studies_collection/know_your_place