Delegate information
The aim of this section is to provide you with as much information about the local area and getting to Kingston so that you get the most of your conference trip.
The University is based in Kingston upon Thames, a busy riverside town on the borders of London and Surrey. Kingston upon Thames has something for everyone, including: a wide selection of shops, bars, restaurants and pubs; easy access to beautiful countryside such as Richmond Park and Hampton Court and a rich history dating back to Anglo-Saxon times.
Accommodation
Many of our conferences offer overnight stays in university accommodation. However, if this is not an option for you, Kingston has a range of local hotels and guest houses.
Shopping
Kingston is internationally renowned for its extensive range of shops, markets and services for the busy visitor. The title of the premier retail centre in the South East of England is well justified. Traditionally a historic Market Town, Kingston has, over the past decade, received substantial investment resulting in the provision of 3.5 million sq ft of retail floor space including Eden Walk, Clarence Street and the award winning Bentall Centre.
These larger retail areas combine well with smaller specialists, including the Ancient Market for vegetables, fruit and fish and the Monday market on the old Cattle Market for general goods, all of which still continue to trade very successfully today. Kingston town is a mecca for shoppers with over 400 stores including John Lewis and Bentalls department stores, yet it still preserves its small town feel with unique and interesting side streets of niche retailers and well established late night and Sunday shopping.
Food and Drink
Kingston has an array of cafes and restaurants offering mouth-watering cuisine from around the wolrd to suit every taste and budget. Night-time in Kingston is full of action, with the numerous bars, clubs and traditional pubs offering something for everyone. The riverside development at Charter Quay with its heady mix of high quality residential accommodation, atmospheric restaurants and specialist retailers is an ideal balance to The Rotunda packed full of leisure and entertainment.
Further Information
More information about Kingston town centre may be found at Kingston First or hard copies of the Shopping or Entertainment Guides may be obtained from the Visitor and Tourist Information Centre on 020 8547 5592.
