How To Celebrate Your Graduation

After three years of undergraduate study, I'm finally graduating from my BA course on July 17th. Although I'm excited to walk across the stage and receive my degree, I'm also trying to decide what to do after the ceremony. Here are a few of the ideas I've come up with, but feel free to share your own!
Go to one of Kingston's many restaurants!
This is my current plan for graduation - a meal out with my family! The only issue is I can't pick which one to go to. Kingston has so many restaurants on offer, regardless of your taste or budget. Whether it's Franco Manca, Cappadocia, The Giggling Squid or even a cheeky Nando’s, you won't be short of options. Top tip: if you can, consider booking your restaurant in advance online. Graduation is (understandably) a busy time, and you don't want to have to wait hours to eat.
Have a stroll in Richmond or Hampton Court Park!
If you want a more toned-down celebration, a picnic in Richmond or Hampton Court Park might be the perfect choice for you! Pick up some picnic food from Sainsbury's/Aldi (Eden St.) or make your own at home. There are lots of picnic benches in both parks - Richmond Park’s Isabella Plantation is my favourite place for a picnic, so if you don't mind a bit of a walk I'd highly recommend checking it out.
Go on a shopping spree!
Kingston-upon-Thames has a bustling high street (Eden/Clarence St.) with shops to suit all interests. If your family and/or friends are visiting for your graduation, why not take them to Kingston’s Bentall Centre for a shopping spree? My favourite store in the centre is Fenwick's - it's a huge department with clothing, toy and homeware departments. Whenever I have a break in-between lectures, I love heading there to check out the Jellycat selection on the top floor.
Relax by the river!
Kingston University's graduation ceremonies take place at the Rose Theatre, a local Kingston theatre located right beside the River Thames. If you want to bask in the summer weather a bit more, why not take a walk down the riverside? It's only a minute away from the theatre, and there are lots of pubs (Woody’s/The Mill/The Bishop) which have outdoor seating available if you want to grab a drink in the sun with some of your fellow graduates.
What are your plans for graduation? Are you planning a big party with friends or looking forward to a quiet night-in after all of the excitement?
Hope this helps any upcoming KU graduates - and a big congratulations on graduating from your course!
Eve (Kingston Rep).