Kingston, located just 30 minutes from central London, has become a global destination for young adults seeking a vibrant town with a strong student community. Thanks to its rich history, proximity to London and range of academic institutions, Kingston offers a unique blend of opportunities, culture and a thriving social events scene. Stick around to discover more about the student lifestyle Kingston has to offer!
Uni campus lifestyle – Kingston, Richmond, St Mary’s and beyond
With a selection of universities nearby, Kingston offers a strong campus life for students thanks to a wide range of student clubs and societies. Whether you are interested in sports, creative arts, activities or socialising, Kingston is the perfect student home for exploring your hobbies and meeting diverse people. University societies are also an excellent place to enhance skills for your career and build an international network of connections in your field.
Don’t take our word for it, check out your unis’ societies below!
https://kingstonstudents.net/student-life/
https://students.richmond.ac.uk/clubs-and-societies/
https://www.stmaryssu.co.uk/groups??group_type=societies-749
Affordable Living and Student-Friendly Homes
While Kingston is located less than 30 minutes from central London, it offers relatively affordable cost of living and a strong community feel compared to the capital. Plus, with a range of Fresh student homes to choose from, it’s easy to secure the best uni accommodation[RR1] for you. Choose Kingston Plaza and enjoy amazing, refurbished facilities including a TV lounge, outdoor garden courtyard and an on-site gym! Or perhaps your looking for the extra space and the privacy of a studio flat at Quebec House. Fancy a selection of modern en suites and studios? Then why not opt for Davidson house!
Thanks to Fresh’s amazing social events and supportive Residents Teams, we have the perfect homes to book, whatever your preference or budget, especially if you’re uncertain of moving countries or concerned about making friends. Plus, you’ll be located just a short walk or bus ride from campus with connections to central London whenever you want to explore the capital!
Exploring Kingston: Cheap eats and a Diverse food scene
Thanks to Kingston’s diverse community, there are endless flavours to discover when eating out. Below are some of our top picks to get you started!
- Pokie & Roll – Japanese food with a Hawaiian twist £7-10
Loaded breakfast and lunch bowls Bao buns, Viral cheese coin,
- Chakra – exciting Indian cuisine with excellent service £~15
Indian classic currys, street food inspired small plates and Indian grill dishes
- Poor Boys – vibrant restaurant with a buzz, perfect for Friday nights £15-20
Delicious fried chicken, beef burgers and seafood. With exciting sides, sharer plates and cocktails
- Afrikana – an excellent selection of authentic African inspired flavours £15-25
Exotic dishes with a brunch twist, sharing platters, desserts and exciting cocktails
Must-Attend Events for Students
Kingston’s calendar is packed with events and festivals that cater to a diverse range of interests. Here are some of the highlights throughout the year:
- Freshers’ Week: for new students, Freshers’ Week is the ultimate introduction to university life. Expect a week full of social events and opportunities to meet new people.
- Kingston 2025, Celebrating past present and future – a significant cultural event that highlights Kingston’s migration stories, LGBTQ community and the towns heritage as a trading village
- Kingston College Creative Industries Summer Show – photographers, fashion designers, graphic designers, musicians, media creatives, artists and games designers gather at this exposition to celebrate Kingston’s creative industry. Accompanied by live outdoor performances and jamming sessions, this event has a unique festival feel.
- Kingston's Ancient Market Place – a boutique sized antiques & vintage market in the heart of Kingston. Offering a huge array of interesting items from traders and enthusiasts including vintage textiles, accessories, memorabilia and vinyl records.
- Day trip to Central London – explore the capital! Thanks to endless events, sightseeing opportunities, trendy cafes, incredible restaurants and a wealth of entertainment and culture, you will never find yourself bored in London!
Kingston upon Thames is more than just a place to study; it’s a town where students can grow, explore, and make lifelong memories. With its vibrant academic environment and a variety of events and activities, Kingston offers an unforgettable student experience. Whether you’re attending a lecture, enjoying a riverside walk, or participating in one of the town’s many festivals, Kingston is a place where you can truly thrive. So, get ready to embrace the opportunities and adventures that await you in this charming English town!
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