Welcome to Kingston upon Thames
Welcome to Kingston upon Thames – or as the locals call it, Kingston. It’s the perfect place where the buzz of London meets the relaxed pace of a riverside retreat. Whether you’re looking for a getaway or a deep dive into English heritage, this city delivers on your dreams.
History: The Coronation City
Long before the Shard or the London Eye existed, Kingston was the place to be for royalty.
Royal roots: The name literally means “king’s manor”. In the 10th century, no fewer than seven Anglo-Saxon kings were crowned here.
The Coronation Stone: You can still see the ancient stone used in these ceremonies; it stands proudly near the Guildhall.
Market traditions: Kingston has been a bustling market town since at least 1170, a legacy that survives in its vibrant daily markets.
Description: A Riverside Escape
Kingston is a picturesque destination that feels like a permanent vacation. It’s located in southwest London, surrounded by a scenic bend in the River Thames.
Imagine strolling along the promenade at sunset, watching boats glide by, while the scent of fresh coffee wafts from the riverside cafes. The town centre is a charming mix of historic Tudor-style buildings and modern shopping centres. It’s the kind of place where you can shop in the morning and find total peace by the water in the afternoon. It really captures the classic holiday vibe without the need for a passport.
Typical foods
While you’ll find every conceivable international cuisine, Kingston sticks to its British roots:
Maids of Honour: A traditional puff pastry tart with a spiced curd filling, said to have been a favourite of Henry VIII.
Riverside Afternoon Tea: Scones with clotted cream and jam are a must-try while you enjoy the views of the Thames.
The Sunday Roast: Local pubs like The Ram serve up massive roast beef and Yorkshire puddings, perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Things to do and see
Out of town: See the famous "tumbling telephone boxes" art installation on Old London Road – it's the ultimate photo opportunity.
The Rose Theatre: Catch a play at this famous venue, modelled on the Elizabethan original.
Sailing: Hire an electric "GoBoat" to navigate the Thames yourself, or hop on a passenger ferry to Hampton Court Palace.
Festivals and Events
Kingston knows how to throw a party:
Kingston Carnival: Usually held in September, this is a massive celebration of music, dance and global food.
International Youth Arts Festival (IYAF): One of the largest multi-arts festivals for young people in the world.
Christmas Market: During the Christmas season, the town square is transformed into a winter wonderland with wooden huts, mulled wine and twinkling lights.
Nature and Parks
If you need to get off the pavement, you have a wealth of options:
Canbury Gardens: A lovely green stretch along the river with tennis courts and plenty of space for a picnic.
Richmond Park: Just a short walk away is the largest of London's royal parks. It is famous for its herds of wild deer and sweeping views.
Bushy Park: Located just across the bridge, it offers stunning water gardens and hidden woodland paths.