Flats to rent in Kingston & KT1 and Houses to rent in Kingston & KT1

The shopping mecca of the area, Kingston is right at the edge of Southwest London, just as it spills over into countryside and becomes Surrey. It feels like a County Town, and its deep historical roots as a market town inform its structure and the layout and character of its housing even now.

There's a strong centre to Kingston, which means that living here gives you access to splendid shopping, eating and drinking without having to worry about making your way anywhere else. It's very self-contained, with all the big brands as well as a large selection of independent retailers whether you're looking in the Bentall Centre (the huge and labyrinthine shopping mall) or out in the streets, or the lovely Market Square which forms the centre still. Around the centre of the town are all the restaurants you might want, from the typical town-centre fast food and big names to some more upmarket independents towards the edge of the centre, particularly towards the university. Entertainment ranges from the huge multiplex cinema to the town's theatre, which is run by none other than Sir Peter Hall. There's also a lot of sports, with football and riverside activities a big attraction; Kingston has its own regatta and the river plays a big part in its history, present and development.

Kingston University is only the most notable of the educational benefits of the town. There are good schools both inside Kingston itself, and in the environs. Greenery includes the recreation park in the town centre, as well as nearby Richmond, and the walks along the river to Teddington Lock amongst others.

Housing here tends towards the mid-war terrace, as well as semidetached properties in the streets that lead away from the centre. This is a true commuter centre and the housing is aimed both at professional young people - there are good flats in the riverside developments as well as the town centre - and the families. The larger Victorian and Edwardian homes near the centre of the town are perfect for those with growing families and are very much sought after.

A town with everything you'd need, including plenty of space, entertainment and resources, Kingston offers a wide range of places to live, as well as a great base.

Kingston is in the Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames which holds the responsibility for delivering services in your area.
For specific information on this borough, or to contact individual departments please click here to visit their website.

Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames website: Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames

In General:
The London boroughs are administrative centres responsible for collecting local taxes (Council Tax and Business Rates) and then spending the funds received on local services. They are run by Borough Councils who are elected by borough residents on a four year cycle. The totals that they spend will depend on the rates of tax that they levy plus funds allocated from central government and other sources.

While many of the services (schools, roads, planning, rubbish collection and social services) are standard, levels of provision will vary according to the overall political will as expressed by the voters.

Your tax liability (as a resident) will be based on the council tax band of your home. These bands are set by Valuation Officers and there is scope for appeal. The rate bands are then used to determine the amounts of tax levied. So, while the bands will remain largely constant the levels of tax can go up and, in theory, down.

You may claim discounts or exemptions based on your circumstances. For example, as the only adult in a property you can get a 25% reduction on your bill. Other reductions are available for qualifying second adults and Council Tax Benefit claimants.

There is more information available at the HM Customs & Excise website.

Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames Council Tax