Historic Market Town
Kingston
Where ancient Saxon kings were crowned, Kingston now serves up riverside dining, independent boutiques, and a market that's been running since 1170. The perfect blend of history and modern foodie culture.
The Essentials
Best Pubs
Riverside pubs with Thames views, historic locals, and proper beer gardens.
The Boaters Inn
A riverside pub with excellent Thames views and a solid brunch offering, perfect for sunny weekend mornings.
The Canbury Arms
A relaxed North Kingston gastropub with strong breakfast and brunch options, close to the Thames riverside walk.
Destination Dining
Best Restaurants
From riverside dining to market food gems — Kingston's restaurant scene blends history with flavour.
Bill's Kingston
One of the safest and most consistent brunch choices in central Kingston, right by the historic market square.
Browns Kingston
The go-to for special occasion brunches in Kingston — smart setting, reliable cooking, and one of the best riverside terraces.
Cote Kingston
Reliable French cooking in a prime riverside location — the Croque Madame and outdoor seating make it a Kingston brunch favourite.
Megan's at the Griffin
One of the most consistently recommended brunch spots in Kingston, particularly strong for groups and weekend catchups.
Morning & Daytime
Best Cafes & Coffee
Market-side coffee spots, brunch favourites, and the best places to start your day.
Deer Cafe
A cosy neighbourhood cafe near Norbiton Station bringing a Mediterranean twist to the classic Full English.
Eleana's Bistro
A neighbourhood bistro in Hampton Wick where the cooking feels genuinely homemade and the shakshuka is worth the trip.
Fika
A Swedish-inspired cafe on King's Road with an Instagrammable interior and a menu built around fresh, fruity brunch dishes.
Fortunella Cafe
A compact cafe tucked into Apple Market serving excellent coffee, fresh quiches, and reliable light brunch options.
La Fiesta
A no-frills cafe on Castle Street serving honest, customisable breakfasts at prices that won't sting.
Local Hero
A specialty coffee-focused café near the Thames with excellent coffee and a strong brunch menu.
Local's Guide to Kingston
Getting Here
Kingston station is 25 minutes from London Waterloo. The town centre and riverside are a short walk from the station through the Bentall Centre.
Pro Tips
- • The Ancient Market runs daily except Sundays
- • Riverside spots fill up fast on sunny days — book ahead
- • Saturday shopping crowds clear by 5pm
- • The Grey Horse has the best whisky selection in SW London
Read More
Kingston Guides
Best Bakeries & Cake Shops in Kingston, Surbiton & New Malden
A local's guide to the 5 best bakeries and cake shops across Kingston, Surbiton, and New Malden — from French patisseries and Persian celebration cakes to Korean bingsoo and artisan breads.
Best Brunch in Kingston upon Thames
A local's guide to the 10 best brunch spots in Kingston upon Thames — from riverside terraces and French bistros to neighbourhood cafes and budget-friendly classics.
Best Independent Butchers in Kingston & New Malden
A local's guide to the 5 best independent butchers across Kingston, New Malden, and Surbiton — from award-winning heritage shops to Korean BBQ specialists and halal options.
Family Days Out in Kingston, Surbiton & New Malden
A parent's guide to the best family days out in Kingston, Surbiton and New Malden. From riverside playgrounds to Hampton Court, with practical details that actually matter.
Best Family Days Out Near Kingston
An honest parent's guide to the best family days out near Kingston. Chessington, Hobbledown, and rainy day backups — with the practical details and honest downsides that actually help you plan.
Gyms, Fitness & Wellness in Kingston, Surbiton & New Malden
The complete guide to gyms, martial arts, yoga, pilates, CrossFit, F45, and fitness classes in Kingston, Surbiton and New Malden. From budget 24-hour gyms to Olympic-level martial arts coaching.
Best Walks & Nature Spots in Kingston, Surbiton & New Malden
A local's guide to the best walks, parks, and nature spots around Kingston, Surbiton and New Malden. From the Thames Path to Royal Parks, hidden river walks to local green spaces.
Best Wine Shops & Wine Bars in Kingston & Surbiton
A local's guide to the 3 best wine shops and wine bars in Kingston and Surbiton — from the shop-bar hybrid Ex Cellar to traditional wine merchants.