Six things to do in Kingston-upon-Thames,

borough of Saxon Kings and Henry VIII

By Bridget Batchelor

Published: 07:12 EDT, 6 December 2013 | Updated: 11:19 EDT, 16 January 2014

It was granted a royal charter in 1208 and is home to Henry VIII's grand residence, Hampton Court Palace, but many visitors to London don't manage a trip down to the Royal Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames, despite its close proximity.

Seeing red: To celebrate Christmas, Kingston has decorated its post boxes with a Cath Kidston design

Perched on the main artery of London - the River Thames - the royal borough owes its place in history to its important location and famous residents. Saxon Kings were crowned here and an ancient market square still stands. Add in a rather more festive market in the month of December - serving up roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and carol singing - and you've got a great winter's day out.

So if you're heading to this historic river town, here are six things you shouldn't miss...

Wander the waterways

It may be stating the obvious, but a stunning feature of Kingston-upon-Thames is the river itself.
With a footpath running along the banks, it’s a real treat to stroll along the water’s edge, watching the rowing teams glide by in training and marvelling at the various watercraft lining the banks. There are many quirky houseboats to admire, and why not sit awhile and watch the majestic swans drift by?
If your legs tire of wandering the path, why not hop on a river cruise? With various options including a trip to Henry VIII’s Hampton Court, it’s the perfect way to take a load off and watch the world go by.

Turks offers daily river trips from April until October with stops in Richmond, Kingston and Hampton Court, visit www.turks.co.uk

A river runs through it: There is a footpath along the Thames in Kingston, or you can hop in a boat to explore the iconic waterway

Step back in time

A town steeped in history, there’s plenty to explore if you fancy immersing yourself in our country’s rich heritage.

It is said that seven Saxon kings were crowned in the borough and the place where they found the ultimate power is marked with the Coronation Stone which sits in the grounds of the Guildhall.

Kingston was granted its first royal charter by King John in 1208, and from there grew a bustling industry including malting, tanning and candle-making.

The ancient marketplace is well worth a visit, with many festivals and markets taking place throughout the year.

There are plenty of other historic activities to explore, including Kingston Museum, guided tours around the town and the grade II* listed Market House, complete with art gallery.

Grand design: Henry VIII's Hampton Court Palace is famed for its grand setting in landscaped gardens

Shop 'til you drop

A real highlight of Kingston is its fantastic, diverse shopping scene.

The all-encompassing Bentall mall – with everything from High Street names to designer labels – has more than enough to keep even the most fervent shopaholic occupied for hours. Alongside this is top department store John Lewis and along Clarence Street many other High Street stores.

If independent shops are more your thing, however, head for Old London Road, where you can visit No 37 (you might recognise this one from tv series Mary Queen of Shops), where you can snap up up-cycled furnishings to add something a little different to your home.

Along with other independent shops ranging from streetwear to art, music and interiors, there is also the Kingston Antique Centre, where you can browse for hours among its characterful two floors of vintage items.

Old and new: Many of Kingston's shops are housed in the town's traditional buildings

Embrace your inner foodie

You’re absolutely spoilt for choice for places to eat out in Kingston. From an indulgent afternoon tea in the delightful, historic Warren House to quirky independents and big name chains, there really is something to suit all budgets and tastes.

From Italian to Bavarian, Turkish to Nepalese, you can take a gastronomic tour of the world without travelling more than a couple of miles. For a very special occasion, try the French Table in nearby Surbiton, or if you like your big names there’s a Jamie’s Italian, the fabulous Las Iguanas, and staples such as Wagamama and La Tasca.

There are also plenty of tempting little pastry shops to indulge your sweet tooth, not to mention street food and plenty of independent and chain cafes.

Living history: The Coronation Stone marks where the Saxon Kings were crowned

Drink and be merry

As well as restaurants, as you would expect there are lots of great bars and pubs to choose from, several of which feature in the Good Pub Guide. From welcoming locals to classy wine bars, your best bet is to grab tipple in one of the riverside establishments, such as Boaters Inn, which offers a great choice in real ales, or the popular Woodys Bar and Kitchen with its terrace for al fresco enjoyment; what’s nicer than a drink while watching the river life go by?

Get your five a day

The ancient market place is home to a six-days-a-week market which boasts an impressive and colourful array of fresh fruit and veg. Not only is there something to tempt the veggie tastebuds, the market is also home to one of the oldest stalls, Webster’s Fishmongers, which has been trading in Kingston since 1866. Get in early for the pick of a fantastic choice of seafood. And if the delicious aromas of street food make you feel peckish, grab something delicious from one of the many tempting stalls.

For more information on visiting Kingston, visit www.kingstonfirst.co.uk