Welcome to Kington upon Thames

Theme Parks

Chessington World of Adventures
Chessington World of Adventures is the ideal place to take the kids for a fun-filled day out of excitement and adventure. From wild rides set amongst mystical ruined kingdoms such as the awesome spinning disc ride KOBRA in Wild Asia, to swashbuckling escapades in Pirate Cove, Chessington is an eye-opening, jaw-dropping land of adventure. Nature lovers can get up close to animals, birds and insects on expeditions through themed enclosures. With exciting rides and rollercoasters, amazing animals and a SEA LIFE Centre, Chessington really is Britain's wildest adventure and is just a 15 minute drive from Kingston.

Chessington World of Adventures
Chessington
Surrey
KT9 2NE
www.chessington.com

Thorpe Park
A visit to Thorpe Park is guaranteed to keep the whole family entertained as there’s a dedicated area for young thrill hunters, as well as numerous rides for older daredevils and plenty of refreshment stops to keep energy levels up. The spine-tingling new ‘The Swarm’ ride opens in 2012 and is a must-try for all thrill seekers. Thorpe Park is only 13 miles from Kingston and offers a fun-packed day out for all ages.

Thorpe Park
Staines Road
Chertsey
Surrey
KT16 8PN
www.thorpepark.com

Historic Buildings

Hampton Court Palace
Cross over Kingston Bridge and discover 500 years of royal history at Hampton Court Palace. This beautiful Palace is immersed in history and is full of fascinating facts. Did you know that Henry VIII spent three of his honeymoons here? Or that the largest grapevine in the world grows in the Palace’s gardens? As you explore the Palace you will take in the magnificent State apartments, 60 acres of beautiful riverside gardens and you can even lose yourself in the world famous maze.

Hampton Court Palace
Surrey
KT8 9AU

For advance tickets: Tel: 08444 827 799 www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace

Tickets available from the Tourist Information Centre.

Ham House and Gardens
This wonderful 17th century house and formal gardens sit right on the banks of the River Thames towards Richmond. The atmospheric Ham House is said to be one of the most haunted properties in Britain but it’s also one of the most beautiful and the gardens in particular are a hit with visitors.

Ham House and Gardens
Ham Street, Ham,
Richmond-upon-Thames,
TW10 7RS
020 8940 1950
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-hamhouse.htm

Kew Palace
Kew Palace was built by Samuel Fortrey, a successful Flemish merchant in 1631 as a grand status symbol and as his family home. The Palace stayed within Fortrey family until it passed to Sir Richard Levett, who became Lord Mayor of London in 1699. Kew Palace had its first royal associations in 1729, when George II was attracted to the building. The Princes of Wales then went on to establish links with Kew Gardens, and William Kent was appointed to remodel the palace and he laid the first foundations of the botanic gardens. Kew Palace was passed through the royal family all the way to Queen Victoria, who opened the Palace to the public in 1898. Kew Palace is just a 20 minute drive from Kingston and is a superb day out for the whole family.

Kew Palace
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
Richmond
TW9 3AB
www.hrp.org.uk/KewPalace

Tickets available from the Tourist Information Centre

Gardens

RHS Gardens Wisley
Since 1903 the gardens have been managed by the Royal Horticultural Society and are the Society’s flagship gardens. The Glasshouse offers a varied experience as there are three climatic zones which encourage new and exciting plants to grow. The Alpine Display House is another must-see attraction which showcases a plethora of pretty Alpine plants. RHS gardens at Wisley are a short drive down the A3 from Kingston.

RHS Gardens Wisley
www.rhs.org.uk/Gardens/Wisley/Plan-your-visit

Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens has 250 years of history, and has evolved dramatically since its opening and is now one of the most important locations for botanical science in the world. There’s plenty to explore in Kew and with guided tours available and the treetop walkway, there is opportunity to view the gardens in your own way.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
www.kew.org