Kingston Christmas Market 2026 runs in the Ancient Market Place from Thursday 12 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027, open 10am to 6pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to 8pm Thursday to Saturday. Dates and hours are as listed by Time Out’s 2026 market guide; check the organiser’s page before you go, as late-season hours can change.
The market sits in the oldest part of Kingston upon Thames, a few minutes’ walk from the Bentall Centre, John Lewis and the riverside. That makes it easy to combine with Christmas shopping, and hard to park near on a December Saturday. This guide covers when to go, where a car can sensibly drop you, and how to get home with your bags.
Opening hours at a glance
| Days | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Sunday to Wednesday | 10am – 6pm |
| Thursday to Saturday | 10am – 8pm |
| Season | 12 November 2026 – 3 January 2027 |
Weekday mornings are the quietest. Late openings on Thursday, Friday and Saturday are the busiest, and so are the roads into Kingston around them.
Why a taxi beats driving in December
Kingston’s town-centre car parks fill early on December weekends, and the one-way system around the centre is slow at the same time. With a taxi there is no queue for a space, no ticket to watch and no need for anyone to stay off the mulled wine. A pre-booked return also means you are not waiting at a busy rank with shopping bags when the market closes.
Where to be dropped off and picked up
The Ancient Market Place itself is pedestrianised, so cars cannot drive into the market. When you book, name a nearby street or landmark as the pickup point and agree it with the driver — a specific shop entrance or junction works far better than “the market”. If anyone in your group has limited mobility, tell us when you book so we can choose the closest practical stopping point and, if needed, a wheelchair accessible vehicle.
Booking a car from Kingston, Surbiton or Chessington
Our Kingston office at 39A Walter Street covers the town and KT1 and KT2, on 020 3388 9999. If you are coming in from Surbiton, Tolworth or Chessington, the Chessington office on 0208 397 4747 is usually closest. From Epsom or Ewell, call the head office on 01372 747 747. You can also book online and get the price before you travel.
Tips for a smooth visit
- Book the return when you book the outbound. Pick a time half an hour before you think you will be done; it is easier to bring a car forward than to find one at closing time.
- Plan for bags. If you are shopping as well, ask for an estate or MPV so presents fit in the boot.
- Travelling with children? Tell us their ages; see our guide to booking a taxi with a child seat.
- Groups of five or more fit better in one larger car than in two saloons.
Frequently asked questions
When is Kingston Christmas Market 2026?
From 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 in the Ancient Market Place, Kingston upon Thames.
What time does Kingston Christmas Market open?
10am to 6pm Sunday to Wednesday, and 10am to 8pm Thursday to Saturday, according to published 2026 listings.
Can a taxi drop me at the market?
The Market Place is pedestrianised, so the car stops on a nearby street. Agree a specific pickup point when you book.
Which Clocktower Cars office covers Kingston?
Our Kingston office at 39A Walter Street, KT2 5DS, on 020 3388 9999. Chessington (0208 397 4747) is closest for Surbiton, Tolworth and Chessington.
Should I pre-book my taxi home from the market?
Yes, especially for late openings on Thursday to Saturday. Book the return at the same time as the outbound journey.