A Closer Look at Kingston University's Suburban Neighbours!

Although Kingston University is mainly located and named after the market town of Kingston-upon-Thames, a good majority of our students live in neighbouring areas, such as Surbiton, New Malden, Teddington and Raynes Park. Here's a quick breakdown of some of the closest ones, which might come in handy when you're searching for accomodation options!

Surbiton
Home to both the Clayhill and Seething Wells Halls of Residence, Surbiton is one of the most popular locations for students who study at Penrhyn Road or Knight's Park to live in. With a good selection of pubs (The Coronation Hall, The Surbiton Flyer and The Duke of York), grocery stores (Sainsbury's, Waitrose and M&S) and everyday shops (Boots, Superdrug and Poundland), Surbiton is a great student neighbourhood with easy transport links and a calm, suburban atmosphere.

New Malden
Well known for its large Korean population, New Malden is a little east of Kingston-upon-Thames and great for anyone wanting to try out some authentic Korean BBQ or pick up some ingredients from home in the local H-Mart. With both a good selection of small independent restaurants, a golf club, a local Lidl and a nearby train station, New Malden is a great area for any foodies who want easy access to Kingston without being near the centre all the time.

Teddington
Just above Hampton Wick and only a stone's throw from the famous Hampton Court Palace (the seat of Henry VIII and his numerous wives), to the west of Kingston-upon-Thames is Teddington. With a scenic high street filled to the brim with modern cafés and delis, Teddington was named the best place to live in London by The Sunday Times in 2021 - so definitely an area to look at if you're on the hunt for a second-year house!

Raynes Park
Located between Kingston-upon-Thames and Wimbledon, Raynes Park is a primarily residential suburb - but with a good selection of restaurants, a local football club and easily accessible green spaces, it's perfect for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It's also an easy train/bus ride to Wimbledon: convenient if you want to make your way to central London, or just want a quick look around Wimbledon's Centre Court Shopping Centre!

- Eve (Kingston Rep).