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Kingston Ancient Market Place

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

Kingston's historic heart, a vibrant marketplace where Saxon kings were crowned, now buzzing with diverse stalls and events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Vibrant market atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Kingston Ancient Market Place - Image 1

Kingston Ancient Market Place

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Vibrant market atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Kingston's historic heart, a vibrant marketplace where Saxon kings were crowned, now buzzing with diverse stalls and events.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A living piece of history, buzzing with markets and events, Kingston's Ancient Market Place is a must-visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

📅 Check Event Listings

Markets and festivals vary! See what's on before you go to catch the best vibe.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, especially during market days.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Saxon Coronation Stone

Saxon Coronation Stone

Ancient Market Place

Stand where Saxon kings were crowned centuries ago. A tangible link to England's ancient past.

Diverse Market Stalls

Diverse Market Stalls

Ancient Market Place

From artisanal foods to vintage treasures, discover unique goods at the various markets held here.

All Saints Church

All Saints Church

Adjacent to Ancient Market Place

Admire the architecture of this historic parish church, standing tall since around 1120.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Market Buzz

Kingston's Ancient Market Place is a vibrant hub with diverse events. Check local listings for markets, festivals, and pop-ups to catch the best atmosphere. Arrive early for popular weekend markets to snag unique finds and avoid crowds.

History Meets Modernity

This historic site has been central to Kingston for centuries, even hosting Saxon coronations. While exploring, appreciate the blend of ancient roots with modern shops and cafes. Consider visiting during a themed event for an immersive experience.

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Vibrant market atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique cultural experiences
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

SECRET day at Chessington that unlocks some amazing perks! #chessington #themepark #rides #rollercoaster @Blue Light Card @Chessington World ofAdventures
@coastertog
49.3K likes • 715K views

📅 Check Event Listings

Markets and festivals vary! See what's on before you go to catch the best vibe. Instagram+2

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, especially during market days. Reddit

chessington employee by day, rap star by night 🎢🎤 #centralcee #chessington #celebritylookalike
@lifewithlivs_
43.9K likes • 1.6M views
Welcome to Kingston, @excellarwinecafe! 🍷☕✨ Located just off the Ancient Market Place, ExCellar is Kingston’s newest independent cafe and winery. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a relaxing and cosy place to unwind with a coffee or tea, ExCellar is the place for you! Featuring a wide selection of imported and organic wines at great prices, a mouth watering menu, and fantas...
inkingstonuk
170 likes • 8.1K views

📱 Local Event Apps

Look for local Kingston event apps or websites for real-time updates on happenings. Instagram

💰 Bring Cash

While some vendors take cards, cash is often preferred at market stalls. Reddit

We are heading to Kingston Market this Sunday 🎉 where it all began for us 🥹 Join us at the Ancient Market Place for a day filled with vibrant Carnival spirit! We’ll be serving our delicious Arepas, packed with authentic Colombian flavours 🇨🇴 The event will be buzzing with live music, dancers, and plenty of stalls to explore. Come for the food, stay for the incredible atmosphere, and let’s celebr...
tayronastreetfood
57 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📅 Check Event Listings

Markets and festivals vary! See what's on before you go to catch the best vibe. Instagram+2

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, especially during market days. Reddit

📱 Local Event Apps

Look for local Kingston event apps or websites for real-time updates on happenings. Instagram

💰 Bring Cash

While some vendors take cards, cash is often preferred at market stalls. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Don't forget your camera to snap photos of the historic architecture and lively market scenes. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kingston Ancient Market Place for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse markets, and rich historical significance. It's a lively spot for shopping, eating, and soaking in centuries of history, though it can get crowded during peak times.

What People Like

Lively market atmosphere
Historical significance
Diverse food options

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kingston Ancient Market Place is easily accessible. By train, it's just a 25-minute journey from London Waterloo to Kingston Station. Instagram From the station, it's a short walk. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. If driving, check local parking availability as it can be limited.

Yes, absolutely! Kingston Ancient Market Place is very well-served by public transport. Regular train services connect it to central London, and many bus routes stop nearby, making it a convenient destination. Instagram

The quickest and most convenient way from central London is by train from Waterloo Station to Kingston Station, taking approximately 25 minutes. Instagram Alternatively, several bus routes operate from various parts of London.

While there are car parks in Kingston, they can get busy, especially on market days. It's often recommended to use public transport if possible. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great option. There are usually cycle racks available in the vicinity, and Kingston is generally a cycle-friendly town.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Ancient Market Place itself is free. Instagram However, if there's a special ticketed event or festival happening, you may need to purchase tickets for that specific occasion. Instagram+1

The Ancient Market Place is a public space and is generally accessible at all times. However, individual market stalls and surrounding shops will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. Instagram+1

The general access to the market area is free. Instagram Specific events or themed markets might have separate admission fees, so it's always best to check the event details beforehand. Instagram+1

To experience the full vibrancy, aim for weekend mornings when markets are most active. Instagram+1 Special events, like festivals or vintage markets, also offer a unique atmosphere. Instagram+2

The market place tends to be busiest during peak market days (weekends) and around major holidays or special event periods. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can find a diverse range of markets, including food markets, vegan markets, antique and vintage fairs, and seasonal craft markets. Instagram+3 There are also often cultural festivals celebrating different cuisines and traditions. Instagram+1

Yes, the area is steeped in history. You can see the Saxon Coronation Stone, where kings were crowned, and the historic All Saints Church is nearby. Instagram+2 The layout itself retains its medieval shape. Instagram

Many of the markets and festivals are family-friendly, offering food, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere. Instagram+2 Look out for specific family-focused events organized by Kingston Museum. Instagram

Absolutely! The antique and vintage markets are perfect for finding unique collectibles and gifts. Instagram Craft markets also offer handmade items you won't find elsewhere. Instagram

It's historically significant as the site where Saxon kings were crowned and has been the heart of Kingston since around 1170, retaining its medieval layout. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The market often features a fantastic array of street food vendors offering diverse cuisines, from Colombian arepas Instagram to East and Southeast Asian delights. Instagram You'll also find cafes and restaurants surrounding the marketplace. Instagram+1

Yes, Kingston Vegan Market is a regular event held at the Ancient Market Place, offering a wide variety of vegan treats and meals. Instagram

Certainly! There are several cafes and eateries around the Ancient Market Place, including places like ExCellar Wine Cafe, offering coffee, tea, and wine. Instagram+1

The area surrounding the market place has a good selection of restaurants and cafes, catering to various tastes and budgets. Instagram

Street food prices at the markets are generally reasonable, offering good value for money. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the historic Coronation Stone, the architecture of All Saints Church, Instagram and the bustling atmosphere of the various markets. Instagram+3 The medieval layout also offers interesting perspectives. Instagram

Yes, it's generally easy to take photos. The open space of the market place and the surrounding historic buildings provide ample opportunities. Instagram+1

There are usually no specific restrictions on photography for personal use in the public market area. However, always be mindful of individuals' privacy. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the historic ambiance. Instagram+1

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in urban areas. It's advisable to check with local authorities and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kingston Ancient Market Place offers a fun outing for families. The various markets often have a lively atmosphere that kids enjoy, with plenty of interesting sights and sounds. Instagram+2 Look out for special family-friendly events, sometimes organized by Kingston Museum, which can include crafts, costumes, and even animals. Instagram The variety of food stalls means picky eaters can usually find something they like. Instagram+1 Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to explore!

🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies

For those who love to shop and eat, Kingston Ancient Market Place is a paradise. You can browse unique finds at the antique and vintage markets, Instagram discover handmade crafts, or indulge in a wide array of street food from around the world. Instagram+1 The dedicated vegan market is a highlight for plant-based eaters. Instagram Complement your market finds with a coffee or a glass of wine from the surrounding cafes. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will be captivated by the Ancient Market Place. Stand on the very spot where Saxon kings were crowned, Instagram and explore the adjacent All Saints Church, a testament to centuries of history. Instagram The medieval layout of the marketplace itself is a historical feature worth appreciating. Instagram Keep an eye out for any historical reenactments or themed days that bring the past to life. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Kingston's Ancient Market Place is not just a shopping destination; it's a living piece of history. Laid out around 1170, it retains its medieval shape and has been the heart of the town for centuries. Instagram This is famously the site where Saxon kings were crowned, with the Coronation Stone serving as a powerful reminder of this ancient lineage. Instagram The presence of All Saints Church, with origins dating back to around 1120, further solidifies the area's deep historical roots. Instagram

Beyond the grand historical markers, the very fabric of the marketplace tells a story. Market traders historically dealt in goods transported by both river and road, highlighting Kingston's strategic importance. Instagram Even today, the area is a hub for commerce, hosting a variety of markets that echo its long tradition of trade. Modern regeneration efforts, including topographical surveys, are also playing a role in preserving and enhancing this historic site for the future. Instagram

The Vibrant Market Scene

The Ancient Market Place truly comes alive with its diverse array of markets and events. From regular food markets offering global flavors Instagram+1 to specialized vegan markets Instagram and bustling antique and vintage fairs, there's always something new to discover. Instagram These events transform the space into a dynamic hub, attracting locals and visitors alike with unique crafts, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. Instagram+3

Beyond the shopping, these markets often host cultural festivals, live music, and dance performances, creating an immersive experience. Instagram+2 Keep an eye on local listings for themed days, such as Kimchi Day Instagram or Saxon fairs, which offer a special glimpse into different traditions and crafts. Instagram The energy of these events makes the Ancient Market Place a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the local culture and find unique treasures.

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