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Free Things To Do In Kingston Upon Thames
Kingston upon Thames is a vibrant borough in south west London located on the banks of the River Thames. It is home to a range of attractions and activities such as parks, riverside walks and a lively nightlife, making it the perfect destination for a fun day trip or a weekend away. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly day out or an extended break, here are some free things to do in Kingston upon Thames.
Explore the local parks
Kingston upon Thames has a range of wonderful parks for visitors to explore. The most popular of these is Richmond Park, which is the largest of the Royal Parks, covering an area of almost 2500 acres. Richmond Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with friends and family. There is also Canbury Gardens, which is a smaller park situated in the heart of the town centre. It is popular among locals for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful flower gardens. Finally, the Hogsmill River Local Nature Reserve is a great spot for bird watching, as it is home to a wide variety of waterfowl.
Enjoy the riverside
Kingston upon Thames has a beautiful riverside walk which is great for exploring the town in a leisurely way. The walk starts at Kingston Bridge and then follows the River Thames for two miles until you reach Hampton Court Palace. Along the way, you will pass some of the town’s most iconic landmarks such as the ancient Tolsey Clock, the Coronation Stone and the Hampton Court Palace. The path is well marked and is an easy walk for all levels of fitness.
Visit the local markets
Kingston upon Thames is home to a number of local markets, such as the Kingston Market, which is held on Tuesdays and Fridays. The market is located in the centre of the town and is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs or gifts. There is also the Kingston Farmers’ Market, which is held on the first Sunday of every month and is a great way to sample some of the local produce. Finally, the Kingston Craft Market is held on the second Sunday of every month and is a great place to find handmade crafts, jewellery and other locally made items.
Explore the art galleries and museums
Kingston upon Thames is home to a number of art galleries and museums, many of which are free to visit. The Rose Theatre is home to a range of exhibitions and performances, while the Eden Street Gallery features contemporary art from local and international artists. The Kingston Museum is also a great place to visit, as it houses a collection of artefacts from the town’s history. Finally, the Bentall Centre is home to the Bentall Centre Art Gallery, which is a great place to see works from local and international artists.
Take a trip to Hampton Court Palace
Located just a few miles from Kingston upon Thames is Hampton Court Palace, which is one of the grandest royal residences in the world. The palace, which was originally built in the 16th century, is free to visit and is home to a range of historical attractions such as the Great Hall, the Royal Apartments and the Hampton Court Maze. There is also a range of gardens and parks to explore, making it the perfect day out for all the family.
Conclusion
Kingston upon Thames is a great place to visit for a fun day out or a weekend away. There are a range of parks, riverside walks and activities that are free to enjoy, making it the perfect destination for those on a budget. From exploring the local markets and art galleries to taking a trip to Hampton Court Palace, there is something for everyone in Kingston upon Thames.
An Insider’s Guide to Free Things To Do In Kingston Upon Thames
As a local of Kingston Upon Thames, I can confidently say that the city has numerous unsung destinations and hidden treasures that most visitors wouldn’t know about. To help you make the most of your visit, I have put together a list of free things to do in Kingston Upon Thames that will make your trip not only budget-friendly but also unforgettable.
Local Attractions
While Hampton Court Palace and the Thames path are well-known tourist spots, I’d recommend checking out the historic market square. It is home to local traders who offer an array of fresh produce, arts, and crafts, bakery items, and other delights. Another local favorite is the Kingston Museum, which is located in the heart of the town center and is free to enter. Here, you will discover an extensive collection of artwork, artifacts, and archives depicting the history of Kingston.
Dining Spots
To truly experience the city’s food culture, head over to the ancient market and wander amongst the stalls. For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to The French Tarte is a must-try. They offer a mouth-watering selection of handmade tarts, cakes, and pastries that are simply irresistible. Another top recommendation is The Mill, a charming riverside venue located in the leafy suburb of Kingston upon Thames. They offer quintessential English dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Cultural Experiences
Kingston Upon Thames has a rich cultural heritage that is both impressive and inspiring. One cultural experience that locals and visitors alike enjoy is attending the Kingston Carnival, taking place along the picturesque Thames river. This annual celebration pays tribute to the city’s diverse cultural heritage, and features music, dance, and costume parades. Another noteworthy cultural spot is the Rose Theatre Kingston, which welcomes artists from all over the world. This performance arts venue hosts a vibrant program of arts and entertainment all year round, with many performances free to attend.
Local History
One of Kingston Upon Thames’s interesting secrets is that it was once the ancient capital of England and the place where several Saxon kings were crowned. The city was home to several royal palaces, and these have been preserved to date. A visit to the Kingston Palace, also known as The Kings House, is a fascinating exploration of the city’s royal past. Not to miss is Kingston Market House, it dates back to the 1840s and played a vital role in the city’s history as market traders pulled up boats right next to it.
Off-the-beaten-path suggestions
Discovering Kingston’s hidden secrets can require venturing off the beaten track. One such place is the Secret Art Gallery where you can find the artwork of local creatives unfurled across a series of arches and tunnels. To truly experience the Thames, hop on an open-air bus that takes you further away from the center of Kingston upon Thames. Soak in the stunning views of arching trees, long established water crafts, and ancient castles. Last but not least, walking the Hogsmill River Walk from Ewell to Kingston will take you through tranquil ancient woodlands and beautifully landscaped parks, a perfect day-escape.
In conclusion, a visit to Kingston Upon Thames should not be limited to shopping and sight-seeing. There is so much that the city has to offer, and often the most insightful and captivating experiences can be found just off the beaten path. The next time you’re in town, be sure to explore some of these destinations, and don’t forget to take some photos and share your experiences. Who knows, you might even inspire someone else to visit Kingston!
