History
It is believed that seven of the Saxon Kings were crowned here, which is a clear indication of Kingston's major historical significance. The evocative Coronation Stone can now be found in the grounds of the Guildhall, close to the 12th-century Clattern Bridge. The town has been a major centre for trade since 1170 and today that tradition continues, with regular visiting markets such as the festive Christmas Market and Continental Market.
Wander through the centre of Kingston and you will soon be on the wonderful Ancient Market Place. Here you can enjoy the majestic façade of the Market House, which is beautifully lit at night. The Market House itself was built in 1838 to replace the Tudor Town Hall. A gilded statue of Queen Anne from the Tudor building was transferred to the front of the ‘new' Market House where it can still be found.
To really get beneath the surface of this richly layered historical town, visit Kingston Museum. This stunning building houses a wealth of information and artefacts, which combine to tell the story of Kingston, from ancient origins, through Saxon times to the Victorian era and beyond. The Art Gallery plays host to a wide variety of arts, crafts, photography and local history exhibits.
The Riverside
From Kingston Upon Thames hotels you can enjoy memorable river walks that take you to some of England's great landmarks and reveal a diversity of wildlife along the way, such as swans, dragonflies and water voles.
Why not join the Thames Path, that runs for 184 miles from the river's source in the Cotswolds right through to the Thames Barrier at Greenwich. From Kingston you can stroll to Hampton Court or Richmond, enjoying an ever-changing view as life flows by.
Shopping
From unique boutiques and friendly market stalls to prestigious shopping centres, Kingston offers you quality in depth. There are more than 500 shops to choose from! In Clarence Street you can wander the pedestrianised heart of the town and browse the many fashion outlets. The Bentall Centre is a premium hub for shopaholics with more than 80 outlets, including of course Bentalls, which is Kingston's main department store. For a taste of the town's eclectic independent retail spirit, visit Old London Road. Beyond the famous falling over phone boxes [that's ‘Out of Order' by the artist David Mach] you'll soon be among a vibrant mix of shops. You'll also be close to the superb Kingston Antiques Centre which houses over 100 dealers offering a kaleidoscopic mix of vintage, retro and valuable from every era.
Food and Drink
Naturally this cultured and elegant town has a truly global range of restaurants, cafés and bars. Soak up the continental ambiance on tree-lined Castle Street at a pavement café or enjoy a family friendly meal in the Rotunda before heading out to the cinema or theatre. Charter Quay is the ideal place to enjoy al fresco dining and river views.
