Riverside Walk

Riverside Walk in Kingston upon Thames offers families a peaceful, pram-friendly escape along the historic River Thames. With flat, accessible paths ideal for young walkers, cyclists, and pushchairs, this scenic route combines beautiful riverside views with plenty of spots to stop for picnics, feed the swans, and watch the boats go by.

• ✓Watching swans, ducks, and geese up close along the riverbank
• ✓Flat, smooth paths perfect for bikes, scooters, and balance bikes
• ✓Beautiful views of the Thames with boats and wildlife to spot
• ✓Multiple playgrounds and green spaces connected to the walk
• ✓Historic Kingston Bridge and market town atmosphere

1. 1.Start at Kingston Bridge where there's nearby parking at the Riverside Car Park on Lower Ham Road. The walk connects to Hampton Court Palace if you fancy extending your adventure.
2. 2.Bring bread alternatives like oats or special duck food to feed the waterfowl (bread isn't healthy for them). The swans and ducks here are very tame and kids love this interaction.
3. 3.Pack a picnic and use one of the many benches with river views. There are public toilets near the bridge and at intervals along the route.
4. 4.Visit the John Lewis Kingston or Bentalls shopping centre nearby for baby changing facilities and family restrooms before or after your walk.
5. 5.Weekday mornings are quietest. Weekend afternoons can get busy with cyclists, so keep little ones close and consider hi-vis vests for safety.

Spring and summer offer the best weather and longer daylight hours, perfect for extended walks. Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid crowds of cyclists and joggers. Early evening in summer provides stunning sunset views over the water.

The walk is completely free and accessible year-round. Parking nearby costs around £2-3 per hour. Multiple cafes and pubs along the route offer family-friendly dining, toilets, and baby changing facilities. The paths are smooth and flat, perfect for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Accessible year-round, though paths can be muddy after heavy rain. Spring brings baby ducklings and cygnets which children adore. Summer offers the best weather for picnics. Autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter can be chilly but less crowded, so dress warmly in layers.

Bill's Kingston Restaurant offers a family-friendly menu with highchairs and a relaxed atmosphere right in the town centre. The Boaters Inn is a riverside pub with a kids menu, outdoor seating, and lovely Thames views, located directly on the walk route.