When you picture England, your mind might wander to famous landmarks like the Tower of London or the white cliffs of Dover, and you’ll probably think of hearty staples like Yorkshire pudding and the classic Sunday roast.

But there’s a quieter, equally enchanting side of England that often captures the heart – the idyllic countryside, with its sweeping meadows, cosy village pubs, and endless trails for exploration.

Nestled within this serene landscape are England’s market towns, where the essence of rural charm truly shines.

These towns, with their cobbled streets, lively farmers’ markets, and historic buildings, represent the perfect blend of tradition and modern life.

Independent Cottages has released the top ten rated most quintessential market towns in England for 2025.

Kingston Upon Thames is one such market town that captures the essence of English charm, nestled alongside the River Thames, offering a unique blend of history, modernity, and stunning riverside views.

As one of the oldest settlements in the country, Kingston’s market dates to the early 1200’s, a testament to its deep-rooted history and enduring character.

Kingston Upon Thames was ranked number 8 on the list, with Bridport taking the first spot just in front of Stockport.

While England’s market towns are often a treasure trove of independent businesses and museums, Kingston Upon Thames stands out with a vibrant array of 936 independent businesses, reflecting a thriving local economy and unique shopping experiences.

The town’s market itself holds a strong reputation with an impressive 4.5-star rating on Google, showcasing its popularity and appeal.

In addition, Kingston boasts a wealth of historic buildings and cultural landmarks, making it not just a place for shopping and dining but a town rich in history and architectural beauty.

While Kingston Upon Thames stands out as a prime example of a classic English market town, here’s how other towns ranked by Independent Cottages:

1. Bridport (est. 1086) – 5 museums, 510 listed buildings, 229 independent businesses, 4.6 Google rating.
2. Stockport (est. 1170) – 4 museums, 403 listed buildings, 3,816 independent businesses, 4.5 Google rating.
3. Devizes (est. 1141) – 1 museum, 355 listed buildings, 243 independent businesses, 4.5 Google rating.
4. Beverley (12th century) – 1 museum, 465 listed buildings, 515 independent businesses, 4.4 Google rating.
5. Bromley (est. 1158) – 2 museums, 430 listed buildings, 1,443 independent businesses, 4.2 Google rating.
6. Faversham (est. 1086) – 1 museum, 349 listed buildings, 240 independent businesses, 4.3 Google rating.
7. Romsey (est. 1268) – 2 museums, 255 listed buildings, 346 independent businesses, 5.0 Google rating.
8. Kingston upon Thames (est. 1208) – 2 museums, 170 listed buildings, 936 independent businesses, 4.5 Google rating.
9. Bolton (est. 1251) – 5 museums, 367 listed buildings, an incredible 6,297 independent businesses, 4.2 Google rating.
10. Saffron Walden (est. 1295) – 1 museum, 383 listed buildings, 394 independent businesses, 4.6 Google rating.

Surrey Comet | Kingston