Kingston upon Thames was once the market town where Saxon kings were crowned. Today, it is a suburb of London, as well as being home to a university. Students, young professionals, and families live side by side in this leafy riverside area, in large Victorian houses, new riverside flats, and everything in between. There is excellent access to green and open space - aside from the river, there are several Royal Parks in the area - as well as the good housing stock and schools. Kingston is also well-connected by rail to Central London, with a Zone 6 station offering services to Waterloo.
Kingston has a fairly strong sense of community, and still feels like the town it was before it was absorbed by London. The area has staying power for families with children in the excellent schools, as well as young professionals who enjoy the riverside and good local shops. There is a large student population, because of the local university.
The 2014/2015 crime rate was much higher than the overall London crime rate, as was the violence against the person rate. For the period between May 2016 and April 2017, the most common crime types were violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and other theft.
Parking in this area can be tricky, though there can be significant congestion. The rate of car ownership in this area is the same as the overall London rate - a little less than one car per household. Road links - including the A3 to the M3 and the M25 - are good.
There's a wide range of chain restaurants and bars, as well as some local pubs, in the area. Neighbouring areas like Richmond increase the nightlife offerings. Transport links to other areas are fairly good.
There is a range of property available in Kingston, with many properties that would make suitable family homes - from 2-bed Victorian cottages to 6-bed Victorian villas and modern, detached houses, Kingston can accommodate families of every size. Kingston offers exceptional access to green and open space. The riverside is a major draw, along which is Canbury Gardens, and just across the river is Hampton Court Park and Bushy Park. Nearby, Richmond Park offers many acres of fields, gardens, and paths. There are numerous smaller parks, and many facilities including cafes and play areas are available throughout the area. Primary schools in this area are very good, and there is a new comprehensive school as well as selective state grammar schools. There are also popular private schools in the area. The percentage of children aged 0-15 is slightly low for London, at about 17%.
Kingston's property offerings are varied, but include many homes that would be suitable for pets, including Victorian semis and modern detached houses. There is exceptional access to green and open space in Kingston. The riverside is a major draw, along which is Canbury Gardens, and just across the river is Hampton Court Park and Bushy Park. Nearby, Richmond Park offers many acres of fields, gardens, and paths, as well as many facilities.
Kingston's rail station is in Zone 6, and trains to Waterloo take about half an hour. The area is also well-served by local buses, and road links - including the A3 to the M3 and the M25 - are good. For a more unconventional commute, try the river bus to London Bridge. Heathrow can be reached by bus in about 45 minutes.