Almost 100 people were in Barnes last weekend to launch a new trail walk, which hopes to attract more visitors to the area.

Residents were joined by Zac Goldsmith, Councillor Pamela Fleming and Barnes town centre manager Emma Robinson to mark the opening of the 2.3-mile circular walk.

The Barnes trail, funded by the Mayor of London and Richmond Council, meanders past historical highlights of the village including the riverside, the village pond and the common.

Town centre manager Emma Robinson said: “Barnes has so much to offer visitors, yet is relatively unknown. “I hope that people will come to Barnes to walk the trail and to discover the delights of this beautiful village on the river.”

Celebrity residents of Barnes provided statements of support for the launch including Gyles Brandreth and Dan Snow, who grew up in Barnes.

A map of the route with illustrations of key sites and buildings guides walkers around the trail.

Councillor Pamela Fleming, cabinet member for culture, praised the work of the town centre manager and Barnes Community Association.

She said: “Barnes has so many beautiful sites and I am pleased that this trail links them all together – giving visitors a chance to share our heritage and also visit our local shops, restaurants and cafes.”

For a map of the Barnes trail, visit barnesvillage.com.