New to the Keep?

Welcome to The Keep: A Guide for New Residents

Moving to a new place, as a member of the armed services family, can be both exciting and challenging. As you settle into your new home in Kingston upon Thames, affectionately known as "The Keep," we want to extend a warm welcome and provide you with all the information you need to make this transition smooth and enjoyable.

Discovering Kingston: A Vibrant Community

Kingston is more than just a place to live; it's a vibrant community with a rich tapestry of culture, education, and entertainment. Whether you're interested in exploring local schools, seeking adult education opportunities, or simply looking for some entertainment options, Kingston has it all.  Check out what to do in Kingston here.

Education Opportunities

For families with children, Kingston boasts excellent childminders,  nursery, primary and secondary schools such as St Agathas, Latchmere, Alexandra and St Peters schools, ensuring that your little ones receive quality education right on your doorstep. Additionally, there are numerous adult education programmes available, allowing you to continue your learning journey or explore new interests.

Training opportunities are also available through No Wrong Door South London.

Kingston Council Local Services

The local council in Kingston provides top-notch services to residents, including libraries where you can borrow books, access computers, and participate in community events. Tudor Drive Library and Kingston Library are both great resources for expanding your knowledge and connecting with fellow residents.

Additionally, Kingston Council offers various recreational facilities, waste management services, and education opportunities to enhance your experience:

Recreational Facilities: Enjoy parks and playgrounds like Kingsfield Concrete Skatepark, Latchmere Recreation Ground, Elm Road Playground, Royal Park Gate Playground, Tasty Ham Play Garden, Petersham Gate Playground, and Broom Road Recreation Ground Playground.

Waste Management Services: Rubbish and recycling collection services are efficiently managed, with information available online. Check your bin day here. The Villiers Road Household Reuse and Recycling Centre offers a convenient option for disposing of larger items.

Local Entertainment

When it comes to entertainment, Kingston doesn't disappoint. The KT2 area is brimming with exciting options to suit every taste. Here are just a few establishments you might want to check out:

• Crossroads Fish Bar: Indulge in delicious fish and chips at this local favourite.
• Batterfly Tudor Drive: Enjoy a variety of mouth-watering dishes from pizzas to burgers.
• Park Brew and Kitchen: A cosy spot to unwind with great food and drinks.
• Boho Cafe: Perfect for a relaxing cup of coffee or a quick bite.
• Fika Cafe: Explore Scandinavian-inspired delights in a charming setting.
• Peppe Restaurant Kingston: Savour sharing plates, pizzas, and burgers at this cosy restaurant.
• The Pottery - Tapas Bar and Restaurant: Experience authentic Spanish flavours in a lively atmosphere.
• The Wych Elm: A traditional pub offering a warm welcome and hearty meals.
• The Queen's Head: Enjoy a pint of beer or a delicious meal at this quintessential English pub.
• The Norbiton: Another local pub where you can unwind and socialise with friends.
• Boaters Inn: Located in picturesque Canbury Gardens, this pub offers scenic views and tasty food.

The nearest shop and mini supermarket is.

• Co-op Food - Kingston: Conveniently located for your grocery needs 2 mins from the Keep. However, there are a host of smaller newsagents and 7 - 11's also.

Local Activities for Families

Families in The Keep have a plethora of activities to enjoy together:

• Albany Outdoors: Offering outdoor activities and support for children, Albany Outdoors provides a range of exciting opportunities for families to explore.
• art-K Kingston: Unleash your creativity at art-K Kingston, where children and adults alike can enjoy art classes and workshops.
• POD Softplay at YMCA: Perfect for younger children, POD Softplay at YMCA offers a safe and fun environment for play.
• London Karate Limited: Get active and learn martial arts at London Karate Limited, where families can train together.
• Barnfield Riding School: Experience the joy of horseback riding at Barnfield Riding School, where lessons are available for all skill levels.
• Forest School Kingston: Connect with nature and learn outdoor skills at Forest School Kingston, an ideal activity for adventurous families.

Swimming Lessons and Facilities

For water enthusiasts, there are several swimming schools and facilities nearby:

• Goggle Squad - Swim School: Offering swimming lessons at Latchmere School, Goggle Squad provides expert instruction for swimmers of all levels.
• Higgins Aquatics Swimming School: Learn to swim at Higgins Aquatics Swimming School, located at Grand Avenue Primary School.
• The Malden Centre - Swimming: Enjoy swimming lessons and facilities at The Malden Centre in nearby New Malden.
• Hampton Pool Open Air Pool: Experience outdoor swimming at Hampton Pool, located in nearby Richmond.

Need to send a letter or parcel, local post offices and parcel delivery drop-offs are conveniently located for your mailing needs:

Richmond Road Post Office: Located at 109 Richmond Rd, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 5BX, this post office offers a range of postal services.

Better Price with Post Office: Situated at 168 Tudor Dr, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 5QG, this post office is open seven days a week, providing easy access for residents.

In addition to these activities, The Keep itself has Aggie, an Army Welfare Service development worker, who organises many events, play sessions, and The Keep Youth Club at the Keep Community Centre, providing further opportunities for families to connect and engage with their community.

As you explore all that Kingston has to offer, we hope you take advantage of these activities and services to create lasting memories and build connections within The Keep.

Welcome to Kingston, where family fun and community spirit thrive!

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