The bridge stands on the site of what is believed to be the first crossing of the Thames upstream of London Bridge, originating from the Saxon period.
The 1828 structure was designed by Edward Lapidge, who was the County Surveyor for Surrey at the time.
The bridge was significantly widened in 1914 by adding steel girders to the original stone arches to support modern traffic volumes.
Kingston upon Thames derives its name from this specific crossing, which was a royal town used for the coronation of several Anglo-Saxon kings.
The bridge is a major focal point for the annual Kingston upon Thames riverside events and regattas.
Kingston Bridge is a Grade II listed road bridge spanning the River Thames in Greater London, connecting the historic market town of Kingston upon Thames to Hampton Court. The current stone structure, designed by Edward Lapidge, opened in 1828 to replace a medieval predecessor that had served the site for centuries. It features five elliptical arches constructed primarily of Portland stone. The bridge serves as a major arterial link for the A308 road, carrying significant vehicle and pedestrian traffic daily. The site is located at a historic river crossing point that dates back to the Saxon era. Significant modifications were made in 1914 to widen the bridge to accommodate increasing traffic demands. It provides a strategic vantage point for viewing the confluence of river traffic and the surrounding riverside commercial developments.
From the towpath on the Hampton Wick side of the river looking back toward the Kingston skyline.
Walk the Thames Path which passes directly under the bridge on both the Kingston and Hampton Wick banks.
Visit the riverside area during the evening to see the bridge illuminated against the water.
Avoid crossing during peak weekday rush hours when traffic congestion can make the pedestrian sidewalk crowded.
Do not attempt to walk across during peak traffic hours as the narrow sidewalks can feel congested and loud due to proximity to heavy vehicle traffic.
