Welcome to Kingston

Congratulations, if you are house hunting in Kingston you have already won. A home in this great area with all it offers, automatically makes you the envy of many. Now in order to make your transition as smooth and hassle free as possible Hamptons have put together this great guide which will help you choose the best schools, learn a little about planning and building control, read tips on where to shop, eat and lot’s more, all packed into one little guide with clickable links. Perhaps most importantly we have researched some of the leading local professionals and experts who can help you add value and personalise your soon to be new home. A big WELCOME and enjoy.

HISTORY This historic market town’s name derives from the Old English for ‘the king’s manor’ hinting at its roots as a coronation scene and home for Saxon royalty. Its regal connections have endured and it is now the chief town of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. The town’s position on the Thames has been crucial for trade and commerce throughout the centuries, while industries such as brewing and leather tanning have brought prosperity. The renowned Kingston University dates back to 1899 and ranks highly within the UK’s best higher education establishments today.

www.santaferelo.com TODAY Kingston has a wealth of local amenities, excellent schools and a thriving local economy, although many residents make the commute to central London for work. It has a reputation for being current and having a lively atmosphere, thanks to a great selection of local pubs, clubs, restaurants and shops.

Kingston has one of the lowest crime rates of London and has some great shopping areas.It is one of the earliest Royal boroughs and has a great offering of green space as well as shopping areas. Kingston is home to many parks; Richmond Park, Bushy Park, Canbury Gardens and Upper Lodge Water Gardens. The main town is Kingston but the borough also includes the other areas of Surbiton, Chessington, Malden Rushett, New Malden and uTolworth.

Kingston and the surrounding area has been a home to rockstars, celebrities, athletes, academics, artists and common or garden members of the upper-crust for generations. Here are a few notable names you may or may not know..

Joe Cole: Born in Kingston, Joe is best known for roles in Skins and Peaky Blinders. Finlay Cole: Born in Kingston 1995, Finlay went to Esher College and began acting in 2012. He is known for roles in Peak Blinders, An Inspector Calls, Inspector Lewis, Fast & Furious. Tom Holland: Born in Kingston 1996, Tom Holland is an actor and dancer known for playing Spiderman and the title role of Billy Elliot the Musical. Katherine Parkinson: Actress lived in Tolworth and attended Tiffin Girls’ School. Barbara Mitchell: Actress Please Sir, Fenn Street Gang, For the Love of Ada lived in Kingston. Barbara Mitchell. Jonathan Lee Miller: Actor (Trainspotting), born 1972 lived in Kingston and went to Tiffin Boys’ School. Lisa Faulkner: Actress was born in Merton in 1973 and attended Tiffin Girls’ School. Margaret Lockwood: 1916 -1990 Actress lived in 34 Upper Park Road, Kingston upon Thames. John Inverdale: Broadcaster lives in Kingston. Jon Richardson: comedian 8 out of 10 Cats Julian Clary: Comedian and TV presenter born in Surbiton. Angelica Bell and Michael Underwood: TV presenters. Roy Plomley: Actor, presenter of Desert Island Discs was born in Kingston in 1914. Phyllis Dixey: Variety artist, singer, actress. Born in Merton 1914 -died Epsom 1964. Lived in Wentworth Court, Surbiton. Debbie McGee: Was born in Kingston and went to Tolworth Girls’ School. Clara Amfo: Radio and tv presenter Christopher John Millar: Born 1955 aka Rat Scabies drummer of the damned was born in Kingston. Richard Peter John Fairbrass: Lead singer of Right Said Fred 1990s with the single “I’m Too Sex ywas born in Kingston 22 September 1953.