10 Free Things To Do Around Kingston University

Kingston University is set in a wonderful part of the country with plenty of activities for you to occupy yourself with and you shouldn’t let a little thing like having no money stop you from having a good time. There are a lot of fun free things to do in the local area and to give you some ideas of where to begin we’ve pulled together this list of ten.

1. Window shopping at the Bentall Centre

You may not have the funds to have a shopping spree but window shopping can be just as much fun. Whether it’s trying on clothes and accessories or planning out what you’re going to get when your next student loan drops into your bank account, hanging out at the Mall is not just an American pastime and the Bentall Centre is the perfect location for it.

2. Find Kingston’s Ancient Origins at The Kingston Museum

Take a look at Kingston Museum there’s plenty to do, browse through photos of their collections, visit one of their three permanent exhibitions: Ancient Origins, Town of Kings, Eadweard Muybridge or see one of their temporary exhibitions in the art gallery.

3. Take a Riverside Walk along the Thames

Why not take a stroll along the river where you can catch some amazing scenic views of the Thames, you can walk up the river cross at Kingston Bridge and down the other side before coming back on yourself. It’s a good idea to pace yourself and plan your route out on your phones maps app first if you don’t want to end all the way up in Richmond!

4. Take in Some Art at The Stanley Picker Gallery

The Stanley Picker Gallery at Kingston University is one of the best examples of a University Art gallery in the UK. It’s located on an island in Hogsmill river and offers free events and exhibitions throughout the year although booking is sometimes required.

5. Get in Shape at The Kingston Park Run

This is an energetic one and a great fun, free way to keep in shape. The Kingston Park Run is a 5km run held every week on a saturday at 9am, you can set your own speed its not a competition, though it is timed. The run is organised entirely by volunteers so if you really want to get involved then why not give up your morning to help put on the event one day too you can find details of how to help on their website.

6. Soak Up The Sun in Claremont Gardens

Spend some time outside relaxing in Claremont Gardens soaking up the sun and breathing in some fresh air, even in the winter it’s a lovely little spot to enjoy some relaxation time. Why not take a picnic with you and eat al fresco in this green space in town and relax by the lake, it is not just nice in the summer either the Autumn and Winter views are beautiful too.

7. Take a Riverside Cycle Down Towpaths

When you’re in the mood for something a bit brisker than a gentle stroll up the river then why not jump on your bike and have a riverside cycle. There are plenty of cycle paths alongside the river, although you should be careful as some of them turn into pedestrian paths also.

8. Delve into the Towns Past at Kingston History Center

Take a look at the History Centre and delve into Kingstons past, their archive and collections are free for members of the public to use. In the History Centre you can look through local books and directories, maps, local newspapers on microfilm and photographs of the borough amongst other historical gems.

9. Have a do it yourself Sightseeing Tour

There is plenty to see in and around Kingston from monuments to old churches to modern Art like ‘Out of Order’ by David Mach. Have a wander about and soak up some of the sights, why not take some photos whilst your at it, to commemorate your day of exploring.

10. Visit One of The Royal Parks

Take a short trip to Bushy Park, one of London’s Royal Parks, famous for its mix of grassland, waterways and gardens. The park is connected to Hampton Court Palace by the Longford River and if you stay for long enough you may be able to do some wildlife spotting and see some herds of fallow and red deer.