The historic market town of Kingston is one of only 4 Royal boroughs in England and Wales and has close links with royalty that date back more than a thousand years. Kingston was built at the first crossing point of the Thames, upstream from London Bridge and a bridge still exists at the same site.

The town was first recorded in an Anglo Saxon Charter in 838, and then in 946 when it became the venue of a number of councils and coronations, cited by King Egbert as 'the royal town where kings were hallowed'. A reminder of Kingston's links with the Saxon times is Kingston's famous Coronation Stone, probably the borough's most notable possession. It currently stands by the historic Clattern Bridge (the oldest surviving bridge in Surrey dating from the 12th century) over the river Hogsmill outside the Guildhall. A silver penny noting the reign of each King set into the plinth of the stone. Tradition has it that seven Anglo Saxon Kings were crowned on the Ancient slab. King John (who granted Kingston its earliest charter) is believed to have built a residence at Kingston. This 1208 charter still exists in the town's archives.

The 13th century column, which can be seen outside Kingston Library, is reputed to have come from this building.

Visitors have long favoured Kingston for its attractive riverside location, proximity to beautiful Royal Parks and its excellent shopping.

Kingston continues to be a thriving place in which to live, work and learn, offering the visitor a wealth of opportunities. With Kingston College and Kingston University situated close to the town centre, there is a large student population bringing youth vibrancy to the commercial centre, whilst the river and neighbouring Hampton Court provide the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely trip through the ages.

There are many schools in Kingston including Surbiton High School, The Hollyfield School, Southborough, Chessington Community College, Richard Challoner, Tolworth Girls School, Kingston Grammar School, Canbury School, Coombe Girls School, Coombe Boys School, Marymount International School (MMI) and the Tiffin Schools.