Are there actually any beaches in Kingston upon Thames?
Kingston upon Thames is an inland town located on the River Thames, so it does not have traditional sandy coastal beaches. However, it boasts several pleasant riverside spots with grassy areas, paths, and sometimes small patches of shingle or mud where people can relax by the water, picnic, and enjoy the river views.
Is Kingston upon Thames a good base for a beach holiday?
Kingston itself isn't a typical beach holiday destination due to its inland location. It's better described as a vibrant riverside town offering boat trips, waterside dining, and parks. While you can enjoy the river environment, if you're looking for sandy beaches and sea swimming, you'd need to plan day trips. Kingston can serve as a base for exploring London and the surrounding areas, including day trips to south coast beaches like Brighton or Bournemouth, which are roughly 1.5-2.5 hours away by train or car.
Can you swim in the River Thames at Kingston?
Swimming in the River Thames at Kingston is generally advised against and considered unsafe. Reasons include strong currents, heavy boat traffic (both private and commercial), cold water temperatures year-round, and variable water quality, particularly after rainfall. There are no designated or lifeguarded swimming areas on the Thames in Kingston. For safe swimming, consider local indoor pools or nearby outdoor lidos like Hampton Pool or Pools on the Park in Richmond.
What are the closest coastal beaches to Kingston upon Thames for a day trip?
The most accessible and popular coastal beaches for a day trip from Kingston include Brighton (reachable by train, usually with a change at Clapham Junction, taking around 1.5 hours), Bournemouth (often has direct trains, taking about 2-2.5 hours), and Eastbourne. Beaches on the Sussex or Kent coasts like West Wittering or Camber Sands are also options but are generally easier to reach by car. Plan for journey times of at least 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way.
Where are the best spots to sit by the river in Kingston?
Popular places to relax by the River Thames in Kingston include Canbury Gardens, offering large grassy areas leading down to the river, benches, a cafe, and playgrounds. The Barge Walk, part of the Thames Path heading towards Hampton Court Palace, provides scenic walking with riverside views. Additionally, the area around Kingston Bridge and the Market Place features numerous pubs and restaurants with outdoor seating overlooking the river.
Are the riverside areas in Kingston good for families with children?
Yes, riverside spots like Canbury Gardens are very popular with families. They offer open green spaces ideal for picnics and games, playgrounds suitable for different ages, and the attraction of watching boats on the river. Cafes and toilet facilities are usually available nearby. However, the river edge is often unfenced, so close supervision of young children is essential. These are grassy parks, not sandy beaches for building sandcastles.
What's the atmosphere like along the Kingston riverside?
The Kingston riverside typically has a lively and pleasant atmosphere, particularly during warmer months and on weekends. It's a social hub where people enjoy walking, cycling, jogging, meeting friends at riverside pubs and cafes, or simply sitting and watching the river life. Canbury Gardens offers a more relaxed park setting, while the stretch near the town centre is busier with diners and shoppers. It's more of a scenic, social riverside environment than a secluded beach escape.
Are there any sandy areas along the river in Kingston?
You won't find significant sandy beaches along the Thames in Kingston. At low tide, some small patches of mud, shingle, or gravel might be exposed along the riverbank in certain areas, but these aren't suitable or intended for typical beach activities like sunbathing or sandcastle building. The main riverside areas are predominantly grassy parks or paved promenades.
Is it easy to get to the riverside from Kingston town centre / station?
Yes, accessing the main riverside areas is very easy. The river runs directly alongside the town centre. From Kingston train station, it's roughly a 5-10 minute walk through the town centre to reach the riverside near Kingston Bridge and the Market Place. Canbury Gardens is also within easy walking distance, located just downstream from the town centre.
Are there boat trips available on the river from Kingston?
Yes, Kingston is a popular spot for riverboat trips. Several companies operate services from Kingston, offering scenic cruises upstream towards Hampton Court Palace and downstream towards Richmond and sometimes even central London (though longer trips are less frequent). These trips provide a great way to see the riverside scenery.
