Kingston upon Thames

About

Kingston is a bustling market town, beautifully situated on the banks of the River Thames. With an abundance of both independent and big-name retailers, stunning riverside dining, an impressive heritage and a bustling ancient marketplace, there is plenty to celebrate in Kingston, all just 12 miles from central London and within easy reach of the M25.

Kingston has it all for a fun day out with the whole family!

Shop ‘til you drop, come rain or shine

With over 500 shops to choose from, Kingston is home to much-loved brands including John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and Next, alongside quirky independents.

The Bentall Centre has all the stores you would expect to see in the West End under one roof, including Apple, Cos, Zara, & Other Stories, while Bentalls department store is home to a wealth of luxury and high street brands.

Venture towards the Market Place and you’ll find yourself in Kingston’s ‘boutique’ quarter greeted by high-end high street brands like Reiss, Whistles, The White Company, Jo Malone and Space N.K.

However, Kingston’s retail offer goes way beyond the high street. Independent stores, like Banquet Records and Pullingers Art Shop, are sprinkled throughout the town centre. Make sure you venture onto Old London Road, past the famous ‘tumbling’ telephone boxes, for a selection of quirky stores with a truly independent spirit.

Relax by the Riverside

Our beautiful stretch of the Thames is often regarded as the prettiest of the whole river. With a stunning riverside lined with restaurants and pubs, it’s the perfect spot to spend a relaxing afternoon watching the world go by.

Why not make the most of it by taking a trip with Turk Launches or, if you want to be your own skipper, grab one of the new GoBoats and head out on their electric-powered picnic boats.

Discover Kingston’s Ancient Market Place

Kingston upon Thames has been home to a bustling market for centuries with the oldest surviving records dating back to the early 1200’s, and Kingston’s historical market is still thriving today.

The Ancient Market is home to over 20 permanent stalls and trades seven days a week, 10am – 5pm with a range of traditional market stall holders such as florists, fishmongers, greengrocers and an artisan bakery alongside a vibrant street food scene serving up authentic cuisines from across the globe.

Soak Up the History and Heritage

One of only five royal boroughs in England and Wales, Kingston is a medieval market town steeped in history and heritage. The town’s royal connection dates back over a thousand years and seven Saxon Kings are thought to have been crowned here. The Coronation Stone, Kingston’s most historic landmark, now sits in the grounds of Guildhall near the 12th-century Clattern Bridge, thought to be the oldest surviving bridge in London.

Photography buffs can find a treasure trove in the form of photograph and motion picture pioneer Eadweard Muybridge’s personal collection at Kingston Museum. And don’t forget to stop by Old London Road, the site of Kingston’s famous ‘tumbling’ telephone boxes art installation, Out of Order.

For the latest news, events and what’s happening in Kingston, visit http://www.inkingston.co.uk/.