Markets and Street Trading
Markets
Kingston upon Thames has two permanent markets supplemented by regular visiting markets. Markets are managed by our partner Kingston First.
Our two permanent markets are:
- Ancient Market - Our historic Ancient Market under Royal Charter boasts a ready audience of regular visitors. The market is open 6 days a week and everyone from Sebastian’s Continental Market to the German Market are welcome.
- Fairfield Monday Market - A popular market where permanent and casual traders are welcome.
For more information on these markets please see the Kingston First website:
Street Trading
We look after all licensing, invoicing, renewal and maintenance issues surrounding street trading in the borough.
Street Trading refers to all those who trade on selected sites around the borough such as ice cream sellers and market stall traders. Cafes should also have a Street Cafe Licence in order to have tables and chairs outside their premises.
Most street traders are granted formal licences for 3 years. Licences are renewed yearly. Applications are granted on the basis of statute laid out in the Highways Act. All applications must be reviewed and approved by the Street Trading Panel. The panel is made up of Councillors, Executive Officers of the Council and residents local to the application. Applicants must have full public liability insurance in order to be successful.
For more information on Street Trading please see the Terms and Conditions document at the bottom of the page.
To apply for a Street Trading Licence please contact us in writing using the details provided under 'Contact us'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we hire the open space in the ancient market?
Yes, we have a unique event area for hire in Kingston’s Ancient Market Place. If you wish to hire this space please contact our partner Kingston First.
Can we book the open space or install charity collectors on Clarence Street?
Yes, to book the open space please contact our partner Kingston First.
How do I get a stall in Kingston's Ancient Market?
We have a waiting list for market stalls at our Ancient Market and the popular Fairfield Monday Market. If you want to be added to the list please contact Kingston First:
Helpline and general enquiries: 020 8547 1221
How do I obtain a Street Trading Licence in Kingston and the Neighbouring Boroughs?
We have limited trading sites available within the borough and we have a waiting list for these sites should they become available. If you wish to be added to the list please contact us in writing using the details provided below.
What are the terms and conditions of street trading?
We have terms and conditions that you need to comply with, please see the document at the bottom of this page.
How much does it cost for a street trading licence?
Street Trading Fees from 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2013, classification A - E:
A. Kingston Town Centre:
- a daily charge of £12.60 for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
- a daily charge of £25.15 for Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
B. Street traders elsewhere in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames:
- a daily charge of £11.50 for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday
- a daily charge of £23.00 for Thursday, Friday and Saturday
C. Street traders on pitches situated on privately owned land:
- an annual charge of £207.00
D. Street traders on alternative sites or seasonal locations will be charged pro rata regarding to B classification.
E. Temporary licences; a daily charge in accordance with the above charging rates.
Also:
- Variation of licence at the request of the licence holder - £80.00
- Duplication licence - £11.50
Can we put tables and chairs outside our shop?
You must have a licence to do so. Please see our Street Cafe Licences page for further information and an application form:
Can I busk in Kingston?
Yes, you do not need a licence but please read through the guidance notes on our Buskers and Street Musicians page.
Please note - you should not sell CDs/compact discs as this constitutes street trading.
Contact us
For further information and to apply for a Street Trading Licence please contact us:
Markets and Street Activities Officers
Neighbourhood Services
Guildhall 2
Kingston Upon Thames
KT1 1EU
Telephone: 020 8547 5002