A Guide to Living in Kingston Upon Thames

Kingston location and transport

Kingston or, Kingston upon Thames, is a suburb in South West London that runs parallel to the River Thames. 10 miles from Central London, and eight miles from the M25, it’s edged by Richmond, Twickenham, Hampton, Surbiton, New Malden and Wimbledon.

Kingston station is in Zone 6, and offers direct trains to Clapham Junction, Vauxhall and Waterloo.

The history

Kingston has been a settlement since ancient times, and its name comes from the Kings that were once crowned here. It’s got remnants of its past around every corner, including Kingston Market Place – an 800-year-old gem that’s at its most magical at Christmas time. You can learn all about Kingston’s rich yesteryear on a guided tour – they run for free every Sunday from Market House.

Kingston’s shops

Kingston has a prime shopping scene, which spans quaint independent stores and well-known names such as Jo Malone – the iconic fragrance brand is housed in one of Kingston’s most beautiful period buildings. For a proper mall spree, head for the Bentall Centre, where 75 high street and high-end stores can be found under one roof. Such is its retail therapy prowess, Kingston the third most popular shopping destination in the capital, after the Westfield malls and London’s West End.

Eating out

Kingston High Street snakes along the Thames riverside. You’ll discover the area’s signature gastropubs here, most of which offer al fresco waterfront seating along with innovative British menus. There are also elegant French, Thai and Italian offerings. Elsewhere in town, the restaurant menus draw inspiration from places such as Vietnam, India and the Middle East, and a clutch of decent coffee shops satisfy caffeine cravings. For street food, stop by the historic marketplace.

Kingston attractions

You can walk to Hampton Court Palace and Hampton Court Park in less than half-an-hour from the town centre, and close-by Richmond Park and Ham House are also brilliant for days out.

The Rose Theatre’s productions also never fail to dazzle audiences. Founded in 2008, it’s been erected in a traditional Elizabethan style, and renowned companies such as the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare’s Globe, English Touring Theatre, Peter Brook, Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse have performed on-stage in recent years.

Buying and renting in Kingston

Kingston is a mix of Victorian and Georgian buildings and contemporary new-build apartments. A great place to rent is Kingston Riverside, from Redrow Homes. It is a luxury bolthole offering stellar river views, while Queenshurst is a centrally located property by Berkeley, with the company’s signature luxe, contemporary interiors.

“I think this building is a very friendly and clean place to live. The security is great so I feel safe in my own building and neighbourhood. It’s also a very nice and enjoyable place to live. The facilities are great to use also.” – resident at Queenshurst

“Riverside development in Kingston are perfect and everything is well and safe while this building provides 12 hour concierge and great facilities near us such as Nuffield gym and sainsbury market and gp for healthcare.” – resident at Kingston Riverside

“The flat is very clean. It has AC which is very good. Location is good. The flat is perfect. New refurbished. The concierge is very helpful. Gym and parking included. It has a small balcony with a nice view. Richmond park nearby.” – resident at Queenshurst

Even more developments…

Crest Nicholson’s The Royal Gallery, meanwhile, offers minimalist-chic flats close to the area’s much-loved Canbury Gardens – home to Kingston Rowing Club. It is rates one of the best places to live in Kingston.

“I like my flat it has a beautiful design. I think the gardens are pretty. I’ve never had any problems here. It’s very peaceful, the neighbours are friendly and the building managment always go the extra mile to help you out.” – resident at The Royal Gallery

Even closer to Canbury Gardens is Canbury Court. This more affordable development wows less than others in the style stakes, but tenants love its setting…

“Lovely riverside flat, 10 minute walk from central Kingston.” – Lucy, verified resident at Canbury Court

The Royal Quarter is another sought-after property. Its set in landscaped grounds and has onsite parking, fairly uncommon in the area.

“The location is really good for people who work in Kingston or need to get to london. The managment are really good and there’s a fantastic email services, so great for communication. There’s a free gym which is fantastic. We have a 2 bed and it’s huge, we really like the space.” – resident at The Royal Quarter

You can find out more about living in the Kingston by reading reviews from residents. Click on the developments below to find out more about residents’ experiences and also, to discover the best places to live and rent in Kingston. Moreover, If there’s a Kingston property that you can’t see on HomeViews,  you can add a new listing and leave your review here