Top 10 Best Hotels in Kingston upon Thames

Why Stay in Kingston upon Thames

Kingston upon Thames is one of the most sensible places to stay in Greater London for travellers who value space, calm and value without sacrificing access. Direct rail services reach Waterloo in around half an hour, Heathrow is a straightforward road journey, and the town itself offers a genuine riverside setting, extensive shopping, a strong restaurant scene and immediate proximity to Hampton Court Palace, Richmond Park and Bushy Park.

The hotel market reflects that mixed demand. Visitors include business travellers serving the borough's professional and retail sectors, families visiting Kingston University, leisure guests exploring the royal parks and palaces, and Londoners taking short riverside breaks.

1. DoubleTree by Hilton London Kingston upon Thames

This is the most prominent full-service hotel in the town centre, offering contemporary rooms, a restaurant and bar, meeting facilities and a central location within walking distance of the river and the main shopping streets. Business guests appreciate the reliable standards and executive room options, while leisure guests benefit from the position between the station and the Thames.

2. Travelodge Kingston upon Thames

Travelodge delivers dependable budget accommodation with a strong central location. Rooms are simple but well maintained, and the value proposition is compelling for guests who intend to spend their time exploring rather than in the hotel. It is a practical base for visitors attending events at the university or in central London.

3. Premier Inn Kingston upon Thames

Premier Inn's consistency is its main asset: comfortable beds, effective blackout curtains, family room configurations and a restaurant offering breakfast. For families and cost-conscious business travellers, it removes uncertainty, which is often worth more than incremental luxury.

4. Antoinette Hotel Kingston

The Antoinette is a long-established independent hotel offering a more traditional, personal style of hospitality. Its appeal lies in generously sized rooms at competitive rates, function facilities suitable for weddings and family celebrations, and a location convenient to both the town centre and Kingston Hill.

5. Chase Lodge Hotel, Hampton Wick

Just across the bridge from Kingston, Chase Lodge is a boutique property in a quiet residential setting near Bushy Park and Hampton Court. It suits couples and guests who prefer character and individual attention over standardised chain accommodation, and it is exceptionally convenient for palace and parkland visits.

6. Warren House, Coombe

Warren House occupies a substantial period property in landscaped grounds on Kingston Hill. Primarily known as a conference and events venue, it also welcomes overnight guests and offers a notably tranquil environment with gardens, leisure facilities and fine dining. It is among the most distinctive stays in the borough.

7. Mitre Hotel, Hampton Court

The Mitre sits directly opposite Hampton Court Palace on the Thames, combining historic architecture with a modern refurbishment. Riverside dining, individually designed rooms and the palace on the doorstep make it a strong choice for special occasions and for guests prioritising setting above all else.

8. Richmond Hill Hotel

A short journey from Kingston, Richmond Hill Hotel offers a Georgian building with contemporary interiors, a spa and views towards the Thames valley. It appeals to guests combining a Kingston itinerary with Richmond Park and the wider south-west London riverside.

9. Bingham Riverhouse, Richmond

Bingham Riverhouse is a boutique riverside property known for its restaurant, garden terrace and wellness focus. For travellers seeking a design-led, independent alternative to chain hotels within easy reach of Kingston, it is consistently among the best-regarded options in the area.

10. Serviced Apartments and Aparthotels

Serviced apartment operators around Kingston town centre and the riverside provide studio and one-bedroom units with kitchens, living space and housekeeping. For stays beyond a few nights, relocations or families, this category frequently offers better value and considerably more space than a conventional hotel room.

Choosing the Right Location Within the Borough

Town centre hotels suit guests who want restaurants, shopping and the station within a short walk. Hampton Wick and Hampton Court properties suit those focused on palaces and parks. Kingston Hill and Coombe locations offer quiet and greenery but require transport into town. Richmond options work well if your itinerary spans both towns.

Practical Booking Advice

Parking is the most common practical issue in central Kingston. Confirm whether the hotel offers on-site parking, at what cost, and whether spaces can be reserved. Rates rise noticeably during the Wimbledon Championships, university graduation periods and summer weekends, so book well ahead for those windows. Weekday business rates and weekend leisure rates can differ substantially, so shifting a stay by a single night sometimes produces meaningful savings.

What to Expect From Local Hospitality

Kingston's hotel market is competitive and standards are generally good, particularly around breakfast quality and staff helpfulness. Many properties are well versed in supporting visitors to the university and to local hospitals, which means practical advice on transport, timing and local logistics is usually reliable. Riverside restaurants and pubs are within walking distance of most central hotels, so dining options are rarely a constraint.

Accessibility and Family Considerations

Larger chain hotels typically offer the most consistent accessible room provision, lift access and step-free entry, while historic independent properties vary considerably. Families should confirm room configuration explicitly, since interconnecting rooms and genuine family rooms are limited in the borough and are booked early during school holidays.

Final Thoughts

Kingston upon Thames offers a rare hotel proposition: riverside setting, royal parkland, real town amenities and fast access to central London. Choose your location according to your itinerary, confirm parking before arrival, and consider serviced apartments for any stay longer than three nights.