WHY I LOVE KINGSTON
WHY I LOVE KINGSTON
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
It’s said the Kingston stretch of the River Thames is one of the prettiest and a walk along the riverside promenade is a great way to admire the view. You can cross over Kingston Bridge to Hampton Wick, or board one of Turk’s fabulous boats for a scenic sail downstream. Kingston also has another famous bridge – the 12th-century Clattern Bridge. Thought to be the oldest surviving bridge in Surrey and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, it’s a fascinating part of this medieval town’s history. Why not cross Clattern Bridge on your way to see the gilded statue of Queen Anne at Market House? With memories of the King’s coronation still fresh in our minds, a visit to Kingston’s Grade I listed coronation stone also feels fitting. It’s said to be the site of the coronation of seven Anglo-Saxon Kings.
Love to shop
Kingston’s Bentall Centre is packed full of High Street brands and independent stores, with John Lewis and Marks & Spencer providing reassuringly familiar retail experiences. Despite the amazing choice, I head straight to King Living for its refreshing style of Australian furniture and home design luxury. I also nip into the ProCook shop for kitchen finishing touches – especially its tableware. Kingston Market runs seven days a week, so you’ll never be disappointed. As well as street food stalls infusing the air with mouth-watering aromas, there’s Zoe’s Flowers, Webster’s Fishmongers, a greengrocer and a baker for take-home goodies.
Love to eat
Bavarian food doesn’t get the credit it deserves, so Stein’s is always on my go-to list when in Kingston. Sample schnitzel, goulash, fondue and wild boar ragout, finished with a Black Forest bomb and washed down with a bottle of Erdinger or a glass of Riesling. As with many restaurants in Kingston, Haché Brasserie includes an outside terrace with River Thames views. It’s the perfect place for brunch, with the egg menu served until late. Try the truffle panko mushroom benedict or the full Parisian. Also with waterside views is Chakra. Its luxurious interior design really breaks the Indian restaurant mould – think contemporary banquette seating, a statement bar and feature lighting.