Want to get out the city for a day or two or visit historic Hampton Court?
Kingston Upon Thames is just 25 minutes by train from central London, yet this picturesque riverside town feels a world away. And you can take a river cruise or picturesque walk to Hampton Court.
Here are the Top 10 things to do in Kingston Upon Thames:
Go walkabout
On a fascinating Sunday afternoon guided walking tour of Kingston, you’ll hear the history of Kingston. And find out where the famous little dog (“Nipper”) who inspired the HMV logo is buried and discover the amazing artwork made from life-size falling over phone boxes. Their official name is Out of Order, created by artist David Mach.
www.kingstontourguides.org.uk
Markets
Kingston has been home to bustling markets for over 800 years. Its revitalised Ancient Market reopened this summer. Also look out for the dates of Kingston’s popular night markets offering high quality street food.
Park life
Take a stroll, enjoy a picnic or let the children run around in one of Kingston’s beautiful parks, from Canbury Gardens to Fishponds Park. Also close by are Kew Gardens, Richmond and Bushy Parks.
Riverside walks
Follow the Thames Path towards Hampton Court (above) or Richmond or take a stroll along the Queen’s Promenade, which runs from Kingston Bridge to Surbiton. Enjoy stunning views of the river and spot wildlife such as water voles, swans and dragon flies.
Cruise to Hampton Court
A river cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to reach Hampton Court Palace and its noted gardens. Opt to cycle one way and take the boat back with your bike.
Dine by the River
Kingston opened a new restaurant development on the river’s edge in May 2014 featuring a fantastic range of eateries including: Cau, Busaba Eathai, Bills and Cote plus Riverside Edge: five pop up high quality food outlets that will change every six months.
Afternoon Tea
Enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant and historic surroundings of Warren House, a Victorian mansion set in beautiful landscaped gardens. Tea costs just £23.50 for adults and £11.75 for children aged three to 12.
Catch a Show
The acclaimed Rose Theatre is a 900-seat venue in the centre of Kingston inspired by the famous Elizabethan Rose Theatre. Presenting a wide range of productions including music, dance, comedy, circus, opera, fine art, talks, festivals and more, theatre features an oval shaped stage, semi-circular seating and a pit area where audiences can sit on cushions to watch performances.
Shop ‘til you drop
Indulge in some retail therapy in Kingston’s 500 plus superb shops which range from luxury brands and high street fashion stores to quirky, independent boutiques and one off shops.
Hunt antiques
The Kingston Antiques Centre on Old London Road features more than 100 dealers offering a startling array of antiques and quality vintage items.
For more information on Kingston see www.kingstonfirst.co.uk
