Moving to Kingston upon Thames: a local’s guide (KT1 & KT2)

Where Kingston is and why people move here

Kingston covers the KT1 and KT2 postcodes in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, on the river between Richmond and Surbiton. Its appeal is the mix of riverside living, a large town centre (the Bentall Centre and a busy market place), good schools and proximity to Richmond Park. Kingston University adds a sizeable student population. Demand — and prices — tend to run higher than much of outer West London.

Getting around

Kingston isn’t on the Underground, but mainline trains from Kingston and Norbiton run frequently to London Waterloo, and the A3 gives fast road access into central London one way and toward the M25 the other. For a river town, it’s surprisingly quick to get into the city.

Neighbourhoods & postcodes

• KT1 — Kingston town centre and riverside: the Bentall Centre, the market and the Thames.
• KT2 — Norbiton, Canbury and Coombe: more residential, with Richmond Park on the doorstep.
• Nearby: Surbiton, Richmond, Twickenham and New Malden.

Tips for moving to Kingston

• The town centre is busy and partly pedestrianised — confirm loading access and timing for central flats, and whether a permit is needed.
• Student moves around Kingston University peak in September; book early for that window.
• Riverside and period properties can have tight access and stairs — flag large items in advance.
• Moving out of a rental? Add an end-of-tenancy clearance so the place is ready for check-out.