History
Seven Saxon kings are believed to have been crowned here, highlighting Kingston's significant historical importance. The evocative Coronation Stone is now located in the grounds of the Guildhall, near the 12th-century Clattern Bridge. Kingston has been a major trade center since 1170, a tradition that continues today with regular markets like the festive Christmas Market and Continental Market.
Strolling through the center of Kingston will lead you to the enchanting Ancient Market Place. Here, you can admire the impressive facade of the Market House, beautifully illuminated at night. Built in 1838 to replace the Tudor Town Hall, the Market House features a gilded statue of Queen Anne, relocated from the Tudor building to its current position at the front of the "new" Market House.
To delve deeper into the rich history of this layered town, visit the Kingston Museum. This stunning building houses extensive information and artifacts that narrate Kingston's journey from ancient beginnings through Saxon times to the Victorian era and beyond. The Art Gallery features a wide array of arts, crafts, photography, and local history exhibits.
The riverside
Staying at hotels in Kingston Upon Thames offers memorable river walks where you can enjoy some of England's great landmarks and observe diverse wildlife, such as swans, dragonflies, and water voles.
Consider joining the Thames Path, which stretches 184 miles from the river’s source in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier at Greenwich. From Kingston, you can walk to Hampton Court or Richmond, enjoying ever-changing scenery as life flows by.
Shopping
With unique boutiques, friendly market stalls, and prestigious shopping centers, Kingston offers a wide range of quality shopping options. With over 500 shops to choose from, Clarence Street invites you to explore the pedestrian-friendly heart of the town, where many fashion outlets await. The Bentall Centre is a prime destination for shopaholics, featuring more than 80 outlets, including Bentalls, Kingston's main department store. For a taste of the town's eclectic independent vibe, head to Old London Road. Beyond the famous falling over phone boxes artist David Mach's 'Out of Order', you'll find a vibrant mix of shops and the outstanding Kingston Antiques Centre, where over 100 dealers offer a kaleidoscopic mix of vintage, retro, and valuable items from every era.
Food and drink
Naturally, this cultured and elegant town boasts a truly global array of restaurants, cafés, and bars. Enjoy the continental ambiance on tree-lined Castle Street at a pavement café or savor a family-friendly meal in the Rotunda before catching a movie or show. Charter Quay is the perfect spot for al fresco dining with river views.
