Kingston upon Thames

Kingston upon Thames is a historic market town located in South West London. Known for its picturesque riverside setting along the River Thames, you’ll find a unique blend of rich history, vibrant shopping, and a thriving cultural scene. Yet while it is known as an affluent area, Kingston is not without its challenges.

We are The Foundation for Kingston 💙

We support local individuals facing challenges and organisations dedicated to alleviating hardship. Follow us, and keep up with Kingston news, community events and local heroes.

Follow out socials to hear first about our Kingston community news and events.

Welcome to Kingston (Overview)

Welcome to Kingston upon Thames, a historic town located in South West London, on the banks of the River Thames. As part of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Kingston boasts a rich history that dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period, with significant landmarks such as the Coronation Stone, where early English kings were crowned.

Kingston is a cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene, including the Kingston Museum and the Rose Theatre, which hosts a diverse range of performances and exhibitions. The town's shopping options include the Kingston Bentall Centre, which offers a range of high street and luxury brands. Additionally, the historic market in the ancient marketplace provides a selection of local goods and artisanal products.

Kingston University, situated in Kingston upon Thames, offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines such as business, design, and engineering. Known for its focus on practical learning and industry connections, the university provides students with opportunities for both academic and career development.

Community + Services

Kingston upon Thames offers a range of community services and organisations to support residents and visitors, with essential services such as housing, waste management, and public health initiatives through the local council website.

Local libraries, such as Kingston Library offer a range of resources and activities for all ages. Additionally, Kingston Citizens Advice Bureau provides free, confidential advice on issues such as debt, housing, and employment.

Health services are available through several local clinics and Kingston Hospital.

We support local charities and volunteer organisations with grants to help them continue their important work 👉👉👉

Hot Lunches for the community

Kingston Charitable Foundation and RBKares have worked together to create an A5 leaflet detailing support for our community for every day of the week. Please share widely - this leaflet needs to reach the right people, and fast.

Events + Culture

Visit the ‘Tagged’ tab on our Instagram profile to view upcoming community events 👉

You can also visit the Kingston Council event page to learn about upcoming community events - including everything from Repair Shops to Police Drop in Surgeries 👉

Another great local resource is 'the Connected Kingston website - a platform dedicated to helping Kingston residents find local activities and navigate local services 👉

Kingston Dragon Boat Race

Every year, this unmissable family day out sees crews of mixed abilities take to the river in a festival of colour and drum-beating in aid of charity. There are picnic areas, market stalls, a food court and children’s funfair.

We’re proud to be the event’s chosen Charity of the Year (and Team Kingston CF take part to paddle for brighter local lives).

Want to get involved? Talk to us about everything from corporate sponsorship to joining Team Kingston CF. Email justine@kingstoncf.org.uk.

Transport + Accessibility

Kingston upon Thames is well-connected by an efficient transport network. The town has excellent rail services from Kingston and Norbiton stations to London Waterloo, complemented by frequent bus routes across the borough and to neighbouring areas. Good road connections, including the A3 and M25, make car travel convenient, although parking can be challenging in some places. The borough also promotes cycling and walking, offering a growing network of cycle lanes and pedestrian paths.

Our impact in Kingston

Over the last 12 months, we’ve awarded 45 grants to local charitable organisations working to improve local lives for the better.

Grants were awarded in eight key areas: Food Poverty and Support, Supporting Families Facing Hardship, Community Facilities and Cohesion; Movement and Sports Access, Mental Health, Disability Support, Advocacy and Support, and the Environment, reflecting the needs of individuals and community groups in Kingston.