Kingston Upon Thames Area Guide
Based on the River Thames, this town has historical significance as an ancient market town where Saxon kings were crowned. Central Kingston comprises a retail area with a large shopping centre, restaurants, bars and cafes with a regular stalls appearing daily in the market place. This lively town features Victorian terraced housing alongside more modern developments, some of which line the river.
It’s desirable thanks to its great transport links to central London, good schools – including three grammar schools – and a university and large college. It was also host to part of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay along with the men’s and women’s time trial and road race.
Council Tax Bands
http://www.kingston.gov.uk/info/200297/council_tax/95/council_tax_bands_and_charges
Restaurants & Leisure Facilities
The Canbury Arms, Kingston
This independent pub has been serving up quality food, delicious wines and fine real ales since 2005 and fast gained a reputation as a superb gastro pub. It has also collected many industry accolades including as an ‘Approved Member’ of LocalFoodSurrey.com.
T: 020 8255 9129
The Rotunda, Kingston
This features a bowling alley, 14-screen Odeon cinema, David Lloyd gym, seven restaurants including Five Guys, Frangos and Pizza Express and Jellybugs Play Café. Plenty of fun for everyone under one roof.
The Rose Theatre, Kingston
Opened in 2008, the Rose Theatre has welcomed many a famous face to tread its boards including Joely Richardson, Celia Imrie and Dame Judi Dench. The semi-circular seating means you get an excellent view and the pit area with cushions is particularly special for child-friendly productions.
T: 08444 821 556
W: www.rosetheatrekingston.org
Sweet Revenge Cupcake Bakery, Kingston
Not only do they serve up a fantastic cup of coffee but the cakes on display are mouth-watering. You’ll struggle to find a seat on the weekends when weary shoppers use this as a pit-stop for more shopping fuel and a sugar fix. They can also whip up a birthday, wedding or celebration cake along with cupcake gift boxes and courses on-site.
T: 020 8974 5444
W: www.sweetrevengelondon.com
Banquet Records, Kingston
This tucked away independent record shop is a must for vinyl junkies. Not only can you flick through their extensive collection covering most genres of music but they also host live acoustic sets from up and coming musicians.
W: www.banquetrecords.com
The Kingston Antiques Centre, Kingston
Located on Old London Road, featuring the iconic ‘Out of Order’ toppling phone boxes by artist David Mach, this treasure trove of all things antique lures in passers-by, locals and cultivated collectors alike. Hours can be spent browsing through the cases of curiosities spread over two floors.
T: 020 8549 2004
W: www.kingstonantiquescentre.co.uk