All Saints Church, Kingston
where saxon kings were crowned
The grand free parish church at the heart of Kingston, on the spot where Anglo-Saxon kings were crowned, now with a café under its medieval arches.
Free to visit · Kingston upon Thames · Kingston rail · KT1 1JP
Opening: Most days · check times
Kingston upon Thames means king's stone, and this is why. Long before London dominated, Anglo-Saxon kings of England were crowned here in the tenth century, including Aethelstan, often called the first king of all England. The ancient Coronation Stone now sits just outside the nearby Guildhall.
All Saints, the big free parish church at the centre of the market town, stands on that royal ground. Inside it is light and lofty, with medieval arches, memorials and a surprisingly relaxed feel, including a café set out under the columns where you can sit with a coffee surrounded by centuries of history.
It is the kind of place coronation crowds once filled and that shoppers now walk straight past. Stepping in for free, between the market stalls and the high street, is a quiet way to stand on the foundations of England.
Getting there: In the Market Place at the centre of Kingston, a few minutes from Kingston station.
Best time to go: A weekday when the in-church café is open and the nave is quiet.
Insider tip: Find the Coronation Stone just outside the Guildhall a short walk away, then come into the church for the café under the arches.
Official site: https://allsaintskingston.co.uk
Free things to do in London · London Free Guide