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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant market atmosphere
Kingston Ancient Market Place
Best Time
Vibrant market atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kingston's historic heart, a vibrant marketplace where Saxon kings were crowned, now buzzing with diverse stalls and events.
"A living piece of history, buzzing with markets and events, Kingston's Ancient Market Place is a must-visit."
📅 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Ancient Market Place
From artisanal foods to vintage treasures, discover unique goods at the various markets held here.

All Saints Church
Adjacent to Ancient Market Place
Admire the architecture of this historic parish church, standing tall since around 1120.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Market Buzz
History Meets Modernity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 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.
📱 Local Event Apps
Look for local Kingston event apps or websites for real-time updates on happenings.
💰 Bring Cash
While some vendors take cards, cash is often preferred at market stalls.
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.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, especially during market days.
📱 Local Event Apps
Look for local Kingston event apps or websites for real-time updates on happenings.
💰 Bring Cash
While some vendors take cards, cash is often preferred at market stalls.
📸 Capture the History
Don't forget your camera to snap photos of the historic architecture and lively market scenes.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The quickest and most convenient way from central London is by train from Waterloo Station to Kingston Station, taking approximately 25 minutes.
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.
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.
However, if there's a special ticketed event or festival happening, you may need to purchase tickets for that specific occasion.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.
The general access to the market area is free.
Specific events or themed markets might have separate admission fees, so it's always best to check the event details beforehand.To experience the full vibrancy, aim for weekend mornings when markets are most active.
Special events, like festivals or vintage markets, also offer a unique atmosphere.The market place tends to be busiest during peak market days (weekends) and around major holidays or special event periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can find a diverse range of markets, including food markets, vegan markets, antique and vintage fairs, and seasonal craft markets.
There are also often cultural festivals celebrating different cuisines and traditions.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.
The layout itself retains its medieval shape.Many of the markets and festivals are family-friendly, offering food, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere.
Look out for specific family-focused events organized by Kingston Museum.Absolutely! The antique and vintage markets are perfect for finding unique collectibles and gifts.
Craft markets also offer handmade items you won't find elsewhere.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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market often features a fantastic array of street food vendors offering diverse cuisines, from Colombian arepas
to East and Southeast Asian delights. You'll also find cafes and restaurants surrounding the marketplace.Yes, Kingston Vegan Market is a regular event held at the Ancient Market Place, offering a wide variety of vegan treats and meals.
Certainly! There are several cafes and eateries around the Ancient Market Place, including places like ExCellar Wine Cafe, offering coffee, tea, and wine.
The area surrounding the market place has a good selection of restaurants and cafes, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Street food prices at the markets are generally reasonable, offering good value for money.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic Coronation Stone, the architecture of All Saints Church,
and the bustling atmosphere of the various markets. The medieval layout also offers interesting perspectives.Yes, it's generally easy to take photos. The open space of the market place and the surrounding historic buildings provide ample opportunities.
There are usually no specific restrictions on photography for personal use in the public market area. However, always be mindful of individuals' privacy.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the historic ambiance.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
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. 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.
The Vibrant Market Scene
Beyond the shopping, these markets often host cultural festivals, live music, and dance performances, creating an immersive experience. Keep an eye on local listings for themed days, such as Kimchi Day or Saxon fairs, which offer a special glimpse into different traditions and crafts. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit