Located in the heart of South London, Kingston upon Thames is a charming and historic town that offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. As a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, Kingston has a plethora of hidden gems and local secrets waiting to be uncovered. From its stunning riverside location to its vibrant cultural scene, Kingston is a treasure trove of exciting experiences and activities.
A Brief History of Kingston
Kingston upon Thames has a rich and storied history that dates back to the Bronze Age. The town’s strategic location on the River Thames made it an important hub for trade and commerce, and it was a key player in the development of the British monarchy. In fact, Kingston is famous for being the coronation site of several English kings, including Edward the Confessor and George I. Today, visitors can still see remnants of the town’s medieval past, including the stunning Kingston Bridge and the historic All Saints Church.
Things to Do in Kingston
Despite its small size, Kingston is packed with exciting things to see and do. One of the town’s main attractions is the River Thames, which offers stunning views, boat trips, and a picturesque riverside walk. Visitors can also explore the Kingston Museum, which showcases the town’s history and culture through a range of exhibits and artifacts. For shopaholics, Kingston is a paradise, with a range of high-end boutiques, independent stores, and bustling markets selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Kingston Bridge | A stunning medieval bridge with breathtaking views of the River Thames |
| All Saints Church | A historic church with a rich history and beautiful architecture |
| Kingston Museum | A museum showcasing the town's history and culture through exhibits and artifacts |
Local Secrets and Hidden Gems
While Kingston is a popular destination for tourists, there are still plenty of local secrets and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. One of the town’s best-kept secrets is the Kingston Market, which takes place every Saturday and offers a range of unique and independent stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry. Visitors can also explore the town’s vibrant street art scene, which features a range of stunning murals and graffiti adorning the walls and buildings of Kingston.
Food and Drink in Kingston
Kingston is a foodie’s paradise, with a range of delicious restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving everything from traditional British cuisine to international flavors. One of the town’s most popular eateries is the Kingston Riverside, which offers stunning views of the River Thames and a range of mouth-watering dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Visitors can also sample the town’s famous craft beer scene, which features a range of unique and independent breweries offering tours and tastings.
- The Boathouse: A popular pub serving traditional British cuisine and stunning views of the River Thames
- The Kingston Kitchen: A unique restaurant serving international flavors and dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
- The Craft Beer Co.: A popular brewery offering tours and tastings of unique and independent craft beers
What are the top attractions to visit in Kingston?
+The top attractions to visit in Kingston include the River Thames, Kingston Bridge, All Saints Church, and the Kingston Museum.
What is the best time to visit Kingston?
+The best time to visit Kingston is during the summer months when the town hosts a range of festivals and events, including the Kingston Festival and the River Thames Boat Race.
What is the local cuisine like in Kingston?
+The local cuisine in Kingston is a mix of traditional British cuisine and international flavors, with a range of delicious restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving everything from fish and chips to craft beer and street food.
