The Best Things to Do in Kingston upon Thames in 2026 (from a Londoner)
Looking for the best things to do in Kingston upon Thames? From a royally historic past to modern riverside charm, here’s everything to get up to in one of London’s best hidden gems — from a Londoner.
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Just 25 minutes from Waterloo is a London neighbourhood overlooked by many, but well worth the visit. Yes, my friends, I’m talking about Kingston upon Thames.
Located on the banks of the River Thames, this Tudor gem is rich in history and culture and has quickly become one of my favourite London neighbourhoods.
From its unique attractions and buzzing markets to its wonderful restaurants and riverside walks, Kingston offers a great day out for anyone and everyone.
And despite the debate, no…it’s not Surrey!
Without further ado, here’s the best things to do in Kingston upon Thames — from a Londoner.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
The Best Things to Do in Kingston upon Thames, London
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Top Pick: Where to Stay in Kingston upon Thames
The Double Tree Hotel is perfectly situated in Kingston upon Thames’ town centre. Fit with lovely contemporary rooms, a terrace, fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant.
Top Pick: Best Experience in Kingston upon Thames
Go Boat Kingston is the most unique (and fun) experience in the neighbourhood. The self-driving electric boats take you across the Thames, seating up to eight passengers with no licence or previous boating experience required.
Plus you can bring your own food & drink!
Top Pick: Best Attraction in Kingston upon Thames
Explore the life of Henry VIII at the grand Hampton Court Palace, just 8 minutes away from Kingston upon Thames!
Roam The Market Place in Kingston’s Town Centre
The Market Place in Kingston is one of the best places to go to see the neighbourhood in full swing.
Established in the late 12th century by a Royal Charter, the marketplace itself sits proudly in Kingston’s town centre, now home to many independent retailers, including butchers, bakers, greengrocers, florists and more.
It’s open 7 days a week from 10am – 5pm — so perfect for grabbing a bite or simply taking in the ambience before exploring the rest of Kingston.
You’ll also find the ever-so-beautiful All Saint’s Church here, a medieval church and past Coronation site, open to the public (they also have a cafe and do wine & cheese nights ever so often!)
P.S. – If you’re visiting during the festive season, don’t miss out on the Kingston Christmas Market held each year in November and December.
Stroll (& eat) on the Kingston Riverside
Some say the best of London can be found on the Thames, and in Kingston’s case, I think it’s true.
The Kingston Riverside is one of my favourite bits of the neighbourhood, where you can go from taking a leisurely stroll to wining and dining like a local in an instant.
A walk here includes vibrant and picturesque scenes of South West and Surrey, watching boats lazily drift by with lush greenery and beautiful Victorian estates as your backdrop.
Outside of the scenery, there’s plenty of buzzing restaurants and pubs to choose from. Including Bill’s, Busaba, Comptoir Libanais, Brown’s, Côte Brasserie, The Ram Pub & Restaurants, The Boater’s Inn, and The Bishop to name a few.
I also love Al Forno right near the riverside, it’ll make you feel like you’re in Italy!
Read More: Where to Brunch in Kingston upon Thames
Go Boat Kingston
Like I said taking up the Thames is one of the best things to do in Kingston upon Thames, so Go Boat Kingston is pretty much a must-do for your trip to the neighbourhood.
The self-driving electric boats are up for hire all year round, seating up to eight passengers with no licence or previous boating experience required.
But don’t worry, I’ve done it before and you’re provided with full training before they set you off!
Rides can last anywhere from 1-4 hours and you can bring your own food and drink which is always a plus.
Once you’re onboard you’ll ride past the charm of Kingston Bridge, Thames Ditton, Teddington Lock and Hampton Court Palace (depending on how far you go).
See the Coronation Stone
While you’re strolling Kingston upon Thames keep your eyes peeled for the town’s most iconic landmark, the Coronation Stone.
Once part of an ancient stone circle, this large block of sandstone marks where seven Anglo-Saxon kings were crowned from 900 – 979 AD.
This place has been witness to some incredible scenes over the centuries, and the Coronation Stone itself is a beautiful reminder of the nation’s history.
Whether you want to snap some #historylover photos or just take in the atmosphere, it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Kingston upon Thames.
Check out the Iconic Telephone Box Sculpture
The David Mach Sculpture “Out of Order” is a well-known landmark in Kingston upon Thames and if you love iconic London telephone boxes, it’s a must-visit really.
The sculpture consists of 12 vintage red telephone boxes arranged in a line, as though they are about to topple over one another (or are telling each other secrets).
It stands 4 metres high and is 15 metres long, making it an impressive sight for visitors to the neighbourhood.
Created in 1989, David Mach’s Kingston creation is a fantastic example of modern public art and a now iconic symbol of Kingston upon Thames. Be sure to snap a photo!
P.S. – You can also check out the Chimps Are Family exhibition while you’re here!
Shop at Bentalls
You can’t say you’ve been to Kingston without a cheeky shop at Bentalls.
The mega leisure centre is part of the Fenwick brand and is a prime shopping destination for Kingston tourists and locals alike.
While here you’ll find retail favourites like H&M, Zara, Nike and Apple, alongside dozens of restaurants, casual eateries, bookshops (hey Waterstones) and entertainment.
When you’re done shopping you can slide onto Clarence Street to hear street performers doing their thing.
Kingston Pub & Nightlife Scene
If a good time is on your mind then you’ve picked the right place with a visit to Kingston upon Thames.
From traditional pubs like The Boater’s Inn, which boasts a riverside balcony, beer garden with microbrewed pints and live music Fridays, to modern establishments like The Canbury Arms with its large Victorian pub brought up to date with bright decor, conservatory and brasserie menu, there’s something for everyone.
Then there’s The Fighting Cocks Kingston, a proper rock bar with live music, pool tables, drinks specials and a lively crowd every night.
Don’t forget The Grey Horse, the perfect place to chill out with a solid American BBQ menu, speciality cocktails and whisky offerings, plus regular live bands and comedy shows.
For sports head to O’Neill’s, where you can sit back and enjoy big-screen sports, live music, and delicious Irish pub food & drinks.
And lastly, for delicious cocktails, make your way to Sonnys Riverside.
See a play at The Rose Theatre
When your evening winds down it’s time to take up a show at The Rose Theatre in Kingston upon Thames.
Modelled after the original Elizabethan Rose Theatre on London’s Bankside, Rose Theatre is South West London’s largest producing theatre.
Spilling in high-quality productions, comedy shows and immersive theatrical experiences, the Rose truly has something for everyone.
Visit the Kingston University Library
Tucked in Kingston University is the Kingston University Library, and it’s open to the public!
If you’ve just moved to the area or are looking to get some work done in Kingston upon Thames their cafe and study areas are a great place to tuck in with a laptop or a book for the day.
P.S. – Exception is from April 24th to June 11th every year (exam season).
Read More: The Best Cafes in Kingston upon Thames: Your Coffee Guide to Kingston
See the Latest Exhibition at the Kingston Museum
Built in 1904 the Kingston Museum is a bit of a staple to Kingston upon Thames, and a lovely add to your things to do in Kingston upon Thames itinerary.
The Grade II listed building was built in 1901, present-day filled with a variety of exhibitions and permanent collections on everything from Kingston’s local history to fine art and archaeology.
If you’re looking to learn a bit more of Kingston’s history a visit here is a must, plus entry is free!
It’s also housed inside the same building as the Kingston Library if you want to follow up your exhibit wanders with a good read.
P.S. – If you’re keen on Kingston’s history, be sure to add the Kingston History Centre to your list.
Catch a film at Curzon Cinema
When it’s time to wind down from your buzzing day in Kingston, make your way to Curzon Cinema.
The upscale cinema is where you go for a movie experience like no other, at the top of the Bentall Centre!
Whether it’s enjoying table service from the comfort of your cosy Curzon movie seat to catching a Curzon exclusive, it’s one of my favourite places in Kingston upon Thames to end the day.
Have fun at Rotunda
There aren’t many ways to describe The Rotunda outside of a hub of fun.
The entertainment centre houses 4 different restaurants (The Cornerstone Pub, Pizza Express, Kung Fu and Five Guys), an Odeon Cinema, Escape Rooms, Bowling and a Children’s Centre. Plus a David Lloyd’s gym if you’re in need of a workout after all the fun you’ve had.
Picnic in Canbury Gardens
Nothing defines a Kingston upon Thames day out quite like a stroll through Canbury Gardens.
This beautiful green walk is located right on the Kingston riverside, perfect for taking in the Kingston scenery like a local, and if the UK weather allows it — having a picnic!
P.S. – Here’s the picnic blanket I swear by.
Roam Richmond Park
Although it’s also in Richmond of course, through the Kingston Gate entrance you’ll be able to explore the magical Richmond Park (and the Richmond area if you choose).
For ease, I’ll leave you with my guide on the best things to do in Richmond Park, *hint hint* there may be deer watching involved.
Visit Hampton Court Palace & Ham House
From exploring Henry VIII’s Grade I listed palace to enjoying the grounds of a 17th-century National Trust Site, both Hampton Court Palace and Ham House are incredibly close to Kingston upon Thames (and worth the bucket list add).
How to get to Hampton Court Palace from Kingston upon Thames:
Kingston upon Thames to Hampton Court Palace is only an 8-minute drive (or 34-minute walk). But if you’re coming by public transit I suggest the following:
For the scenic route, take the 65 bus towards Richmond, followed by a boat from Richmond Pier to Hampton Court.
Otherwise, you can take Bus 111 at Cromwell Road Bus Station towards Heathrow Central or head to Kingston’s Train Station and take a short SWR train towards Hampton Court.
How to get to Ham House from Kingston upon Thames:
Kingston upon Thames to Ham House is a 12-minute drive or 50-minute walk.
The best way to get there is to take bus 65 towards Ealing and get off at Petersham Fox & Duck, it’ll be a 13-minute walk from there.
Visit the Kingston Christmas Market
There’s no other place I’d rather be during Christmas in London than the Kingston Christmas Market.
Every year Kingston’s Ancient Market turns into a winter wonderland, fit with independent Christmas traders, live music, delicious food and all the mulled wine you could dream of.
And the best part? Entry is free! So you have no excuse not to come by when you’re out and about in Kingston.
The Best Things to Do in Kingston Upon Thames Map
Kingston upon Thames Q&A
➡️ Is Kingston upon Thames worth visiting?
Yes! Kingston upon Thames is definitely worth visiting. There’s plenty of things to do, see, and you could easily spend a day here between the riverside and market centre. Plus, it’s super easily paired with a visit to Richmond or Hampton Court Palace.
➡️ How do you get to Kingston upon Thames?
Kingston upon Thames is easily accessible by bus, train and car. It’s located just 15 miles from Central London with frequent services from the SWR train at Waterloo Station, just a 25-minute train ride!
➡️ What is Kingston upon Thames known for?
Most famously Kingston upon Thames is known for being the Coronation site of notable Saxon Kings like Athelstan, the first King of England and Alfred the Great’s grandson.
From a tourist perspective Kingston upon Thames is known for its stunning riverside views, its historic market square and local parks. It also has a thriving shopping scene with many independent boutiques and cafes.
➡️ Is Kingston upon Thames posh?
Parts of Kingston upon Thames are considered to be ‘posh’ but like most London neighbourhoods, it depends on the section you’re in.
With that said Kingston upon Thames is home to high-end restaurants and stylish bars, as well as a number of exclusive boutiques. It also has some impressive property prices in certain areas. But again, it depends on where you are in Kingston.
➡️ Is Kingston upon Thames a nice area?
Yes, Kingston upon Thames is a very pleasant area to visit. It’s safe and friendly with plenty of green spaces and excellent transport links. Plus lots of things to do for all ages.
➡️ What’s a fun fact about Kingston upon Thames?
Did you know Tom Holland (from Spiderman) is from Kingston? In fact, he lives here today and often pops about the neighbourhood, let me know if you see him!
➡️ Is Kingston upon Thames London or Surrey?
It’s London! Kingston upon Thames is located in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, which sits within the historic county of Surrey. However, it’s very much a part of Greater London.
Thanks for reading my Kingston upon Thames Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
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Happy Londoning,
