Nestled along the River Thames and remotely south of Richmond, Kingston upon Thames, otherwise (and colloquially) known as Kingstonis a charming neighbourhood that packs a punch with its rich history and undisputed beauty.
Known for being an ancient coronation site of several Saxon kings, the aptly named Kingston blends its royal heritage with contemporary quirks, whether you’re strolling along the riverside, exploring boutique shops, or visiting Hampton Court Palace, which was once the home of the British monarch’s most notorious king Henry VIII.
So, without further ado, here are some of the absolute best things to do in and around Kingston upon Thames for a fabulous day out.
Wedged in the middle of Richmond and Kingston, Hampton Court Palace is a must-visit for history buffs and fans of royal drama. This stunning Tudor palace was once home to King Henry VIII and boasts grand halls, beautiful gardens, and a famous labyrinth for getting lost in (both literally and figuratively).
Wander through the historic kitchens where Henry’s feasts were prepared, explore ornate rooms that are both steeping with fascinating history and fit for royalty, plus so much more. It’s also worth checking out their events as there’s a whole range of seasonal fun to be had throughout the year. Get your tickets for Hampton Court Palace, here.
📍Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU.
2. Treat yourself at the historic Kingston Market
Feeling a little peckish after all that history? Well, Kingston Market has been serving up local goods since the 13th century, so we’re not quite done with Kingston’s historic allure just yet. However, it’s quite easy to distract yourself with some drool-worthy street foodand this hotspot is the perfect place for it!
It’s a bustling daily market that’s home to 28 permanent stalls, as well as pop-ups and visiting artisans. So, whether you’re after a quick bite to eat or browsing for unique tchotchkesyou’re truly spoilt for choice within this lively square. There are also some traditional businesses like a florist, fishmongers and greengrocer, so you can stock up on some essentials for the home.
📍Market Pl, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1JT.
3. Get cultured at the Stanley Picker Gallery
For the culture vultures, Stanley Picker Gallery is a hidden gem located on the Kingston University campus. This contemporary art space showcases innovative exhibitions, with a strong focus on emerging artists and Kingston alumni.
From avant-garde installations to experimental film screenings and beyond, this gallery is a must-visit, continuously pushing the boundaries when it comes to artand offers a fresh perspective on every visit. For more information and their current exhibitions, click here to visit their website.
📍Kingston University Nursery, 3 Portland Rd, KT1 2SG.
4. Get the pints in at The Albion and Kingston’s fave pubs
What’s a visit to Kingston (or a Secret London round-up for that matter) without a traditional British pub? Luckily for us, the area is packed with fabulous boozers and our absolute favourite is The Albion. Boasting a charming beer garden and cosy vibes inside, this adored go-to is famed for its fantastic selection of craft beer and its hearty Sunday roast.
It’s the perfect spot for chilling out after a long day of exploring Kingston. Speaking of, other pubs in the area that are worth checking out include The Black Horse, The Grey Horse, and The Bishop.
📍45 Fairfield Rd, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2PY.
5. Keep the party vibes going at Incognito
Now, if you’re up for a night out with a twist then Incognito is the place to be. This hidden cocktail bar is one of the most unique in London, offering an experience that’s part boozy, part theatre, and part exploration, with a plethora of sights and things to do within.
The quirky decor is straight out of a curiosity shop from the Victorian era, and the drinks menu is equally as eccentric (try the dramatic drinks that come with smoke, fire, or even miniature hot air balloons!). It’s one of Kingston’s best-kept secrets and for excellent reason—as you feel like you’re stepping into another world completely.
📍The Griffin Centre, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1JT.
6. Soak up some fantastic art at Fusebox
A more experimental take on London’s thriving art scene, Fusebox offers an eclectic range of multimedia exhibitions and events that are essential viewing for artists and enthusiasts alike. Focusing on boundary-pushing, contemporary themes, the gallery is located inside a former industrial space in the heart of Kingston.
This must-visit venue brings in international and local artists, hosting everything from immersive art shows to live performances and film screenings. So, if you’re looking for something artsy to do that’s off the beaten path, keep Fusebox in mind for your next cultural day out.
📍2 Buckland’s Wharf, Thames Side, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1TF.
7. Check out the iconic art installation Out of Order
If you’re familiar with Kingston (or are an avid-scroller on social media), you’ve probably come across the iconic toppled red telephone boxeswhich have become somewhat of a landmark in the area.
Created by artist David Mach in 1989, the Out of Order installation is a row of leaning telephone booths that become one of the most Instagrammable spots in Kingston. So, it doesn’t matter if you’re constantly yearning for picture-perfect snaps of quirky London, or are just an admirer of public art, this playful installation in Kingston is an absolute must.
📍The western end of Old London Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 6ND.
8. Enjoy a delicious feast at Comptoir Libanais
After all that exploring, you’re going to need some top-notch scran to regain some energy, and Lebanese Counter offers a delightful Lebanese feast, smack-bang in the centre of Kingston. With several locations across London and the UK, as well as famous, colourful decor and a menu packed with Middle Eastern favourites (we’re talking hummus, falafel, shawarma—the works)this spot is perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
We highly recommend sharing their mezze platters with a friend or loved one, with their entire ethos surrounding sharing food. But whatever you do, you can’t leave Comptoir Libanais without having their brilliant baklava for dessert. It’s also directly on the river so you can walk it off after soaking up the cracking views.
📍2A Riverside Walk, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1QN.
9. Learn about local history at Kingston Museum
Discover some local history and expand your horizons at Kingston Museum. This must-visit showcase of the past is a treasure trove of insight, delving into Kingston’s ancient past during Saxon times, right up to the present day.
Their fascinating exhibitions explore Kingston’s evolution from a royl borough to bustling market town, and everything in between. You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for this sought-out corner of southwest London. So, be sure to check out what’s happening at the Kingston Museum for an incredible day out of fun and interactive education. If you want to keep on learning, head to the Kingston History Centre for an interesting continuation.
📍Wheatfield Way, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2PS.
10. Travel back in time at the Coronation Stone
I know what you’re thinking, you’ve travelled all the way to Kingston and we’re recommending that you visit a stone… Well, you may not know that Kingston was once the official coronation site for Saxon kings.
The Coronation Stone, tucked away near All Saints Church (more on that next), marks the spot where several kings were crowned. It’s a small but significant piece of British history, and well worth the visit if you’re looking for a slice of royal heritage. Plus, it just sound pretty cool if you’ve been there, right?
📍8-10 High St, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1EY.
11. Find some well-earned peace at All Saints Church
While we’re on the topic of things to do near All Saints Churchit would be rude not to mention the church itself. As another historic landmark that’s not to be missed in Kingston, this beautiful Gothic church has been standing here since the 12th century.
It boasts stunning stained glass windows and peaceful gardensexpect to find memorials to past kings and local figures, as well as a calming atmosphere that’s perfect for a quiet moment away from Kingston’s bustling streets.
📍4-16 Market Pl, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1JP.
There you have it—Kingston’s a perfect blend of history, art, and good old riverside fun. Whether you’re catching a glimpse of royal history or sipping cocktails in hidden bars, Kingston has something to keep everyone and anyone entertained. So, keep these hotspots in mind for your next venture west.
