If you’ve ever wandered through the leafy streets of Kingston upon Thames, you’ll understand why I love this area so much. From its rich royal history to its riverside charm and vibrant food scene, Kingston is one of the best places in Greater London to visit, stay - or even short-let your property.

Hi, my name is Helen, and as someone who's been in the short-let and property management business in Kingston for several years, I can say confidently: this area has it all. Whether you're a landlord looking to maximise your rental income, or a visitor seeking a weekend escape, Kingston offers the perfect balance of convenience and charm. 

🏰 A Quick Dive into Kingston’s Royal Past

Did you know Kingston was once the coronation site of Saxon kings? That’s right - the likes of Æthelstan were crowned right here. The town's name means "King’s Town," and you can even visit the Coronation Stone near the Guildhall. This market town’s royal roots are still felt today in its beautiful architecture, independent shops, and timeless riverside setting.

🍴 My Favourite Places to Eat in Kingston

What makes Kingston special (aside from the history) is the fantastic range of food and drink options. Here are a few personal favourites I always recommend to friends, guests, and clients:

☕ Best Brunch: Bone Idyll or The Grey Horse

Whether I’m catching up with friends or meeting a client, Bill's and Hawkers are my favourite spots for brunch and a cheeky coffee break in Kingston - think bold interiors, great coffee, and a stylish yet relaxed vibe. Avocadium Café is another gem, serving everything from brunch to burgers and afternoon delights. .

🌞 Riverside Lunch Spots

On sunny days, there’s nothing better than grabbing a table along the Thames Riverside Walk. From Côte Brasserie to Comptoir Libanais, there are loads of options with a view. Another riverside gem is the Boater’s Inn in picturesque Canbury Gardens.

🌳 What To See and Do in Kingston

I always recommend these local experiences to guests staying in the properties I manage:

Walk the Thames Towpath – a scenic stroll toward Hampton Court Palace is always a winner.

Hop on a boat tour or hire your own boat. See the Thames from a different perspective and at a leisurely pace. 

Explore Kingston Market – fresh food, local crafts, and live music.

Visit Richmond Park – spot the deer and breathe in the fresh air.

Enjoy Coombe Hill and Canbury Gardens – quiet spots perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

Why I Started Pass the Keys Kingston

I’ve been in the property management business in Kingston for several years. We saw the opportunity to offer something better for landlords - a fully managed service with care, detail, and a personal touch. We are the only truly local short-let property management business. Our cleaners and tradespeople are all locals, and of course I am always on hand to oversee things. 

At Pass the Keys Kingston, we help landlords make the most of their homes through short-letting. We also help hosts maximise their income by enabling direct bookings through our website, offering better flexibility and higher returns.

💡 Why Kingston is Great for Short-Lets

The combination of Kingston’s beauty, transport links, and local lifestyle makes it ideal for short-let stays, remote workers, families, or weekenders. As Kingston property managers, we’ve seen demand grow every year.

If you own a property in Kingston or nearby and want to earn hassle-free income while we handle the details, get in touch. You can even continue using the property yourself when needed - perfect for second homes or flexible arrangements.

With the right management, your property can thrive - and we’re here to make sure it does.

Final Thoughts

If you’d like advice on short-letting your property in Kingston, or you're curious about how much you could earn, feel free to reach out. I’d love to chat - or even meet for a coffee at Bone Idyll