Queens Promenade

It's a reasonably all-weather walking route between Kingston and Surbiton, properly paved with tarmac unlike the Thames path on the other side of the river.  It's nice on a sunny day when lots of people hang out down there (there's some grass and lots of benches), but is unfortunately spoilt somewhat by the parallel main A-road into Kingston (the Portsmouth Road) - the traffic noise is surprisingly loud at times, even through headphones.  Also, the photo above shows a person cycling along the promenade.  However, there are signs telling people to dismount and walk their bicycles.  If you want to cycle, the council provides a narrow cycle lane on the parallel A-road, but I don't recommend using this either because the traffic is fast and sometimes passes too close in my experience, particularly buses.  Best to take it easy and walk the bicycle along the promenade - you'll enjoy the river more that way too.

Fancy a walk by the river? It doesn’t have to involve an exhausting stint if you opt for the stretch from just past Charter Quay in Kingston heading towards Surbiton. The pretty Queens Promenade is a pleasure to wander down, whether you fancy a power walk or just a leisurely amble.

Along the way, you’ll see all kinds of boating activity from yachting to cruisers; dogs and their companions, roller-bladers, shoppers seeking respite in nature, cyclists and runners (although the distance isn’t really far enough to keep a dedicated runner stretched). Plenty of benches are available, if you want a seat to better take-in the scene. There’s also a little café, pretty floral displays and public loos. Bustling on weekends; more like your own private space during the week.