King John granted Kingston its first charter in 1200, confirming ‘all the liberties and free customs to which the same town was accustomed and ought to have’. Offering until the 18th century the only bridge (save London Bridge) across the Thames, Kingston was an important economic and strategic centre, with prosperous markets and with a part to play in national events such as the Civil Wars. There is evidence that Jews lived here until the expulsion in 1290 and returned in the 18th century.

In 1838 the London & Southampton Railway was routed through Surbiton, because Kingston Corporation wished "to preserve ancient coaching and brewing interests", and the focus of the town changed. New prosperity came with commuters, such as the writer Thomas Hardy and the painter Millais, and with the fast efficient transport of people and goods countrywide.

Since prehistoric times Kingston depended on its riverside situation. From the 19th century it joined the rest of the world, but its individual history remains to this day.

Kingston today

Kingston is prosperous and thriving. The vibrant centre of Kingston has many leisure entertainment facilities including its new theatre and a new 14 screen multiplex cinema, a tremendous variety of local cultural performances, events and activities. Kingston also has an extensive shopping area including the ancient market place, the Bentalls Centre, one of the largest shopping centres in Southern England and John Lewis. The surrounding residential areas such as Surbiton and New Malden provide smaller local centres.

In the Kingston area:

* Excellent schools and a university
* A superb blend of urban and rural environments with many parks and open spaces
* Several supermarkets in the area stock kosher food
* A beautiful riverside location
* Easy access to London: 18 minutes from Surbiton, 27 minutes from Kingston to London Waterloo from where many transport links provide direct access to the City, Docklands and West End.
* Local attractions include Chessington World of Adventures and Hampton Court Palace
* Easy access to Richmond Park and Kew Gardens
* On the border of Surrey where many gardens and stately homes are open to visitors

Useful links

Kingston Council - The council's official website
Kingston University - The University's official website
UpMyStreet - Information about Kingston from UpMyStreet.co.uk
National statistics online - Kingston's profile in the 2001 census