Kingston University Students – Your Complete Move-In Guide

Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at Kingston



Starting at Kingston University means joining a welcoming university known for its creative courses, professional education and riverside location. Whether you're moving into university accommodation for your first year or renting a shared house later in your degree, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and enjoy everything student life has to offer.

With campuses at Penrhyn Road, Kingston Hill, Knights Park and Roehampton Vale, Kingston offers a unique mix of green spaces, riverside living and easy access to central London. Students enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Kingston upon Thames while benefiting from the opportunities of studying in one of the world's most exciting cities. Your accommodation quickly becomes the place where you'll study, relax and spend time with friends between lectures, projects and exploring the local area.

This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to Kingston University, including accommodation advice, packing tips and the everyday essentials that will help you feel at home.

Kingston University at a Glance

📍 Location: Kingston upon Thames, London

🎓 Student Population: Around 20,000 students

🏠 Popular Accommodation: Seething Wells, Clayhill, Middle Mill, Kingston Bridge House and shared housing across Kingston, Surbiton and Norbiton

🛒 Nearby Shopping: Bentall Centre, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Lidl and Kingston town centre

🚆 Transport: Regular trains from Kingston, Surbiton and Norbiton provide fast connections to central London, while buses link all university campuses.

Student Accommodation at Kingston University

Many first-year students choose university-managed accommodation such as Seething Wells, Clayhill, Middle Mill or Kingston Bridge House. These residences provide convenient access to teaching facilities while making it easy to meet other students and become part of the university community.

As students progress through their degree, many move into shared houses or flats in Kingston upon Thames, Surbiton, Norbiton, New Malden and nearby areas with easy access to campus.

Most student accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe, but you'll usually need to bring your own bedding, towels, kitchen equipment and personal belongings.

Before buying everything, check your accommodation inventory so you know exactly what's already provided.

What Should You Pack?

Preparing before move-in day makes settling into university life much easier.

Bedroom Essentials

Make your room comfortable with:

  • Duvet and pillows
  • Bedding sets
  • Mattress protector
  • Clothes hangers
  • Laundry basket
  • Storage boxes
  • Soft lighting

Kitchen Essentials

If you'll be sharing a kitchen, don't forget:

  • Plates and bowls
  • Cutlery
  • Pots and pans
  • Cooking utensils
  • Food storage containers
  • Tea towels
  • Washing-up supplies

Bathroom Essentials

Pack your everyday necessities, including:

  • Towels
  • Toiletries
  • Shower caddy
  • Cleaning products

Study Essentials

A well-organised workspace can make studying more productive throughout the academic year.

Useful items include:

  • Desk organiser
  • Desk lamp
  • Extension lead
  • Laptop accessories
  • Notebooks and stationery

Make the Most of Riverside Student Living

Kingston offers a student experience that's different from central London. Between riverside walks, independent cafés, green spaces and busy shopping streets, there's plenty to enjoy beyond your lectures.

Whether you're studying design at Knights Park, business at Penrhyn Road or another course across the university's campuses, having a comfortable, organised room gives you somewhere to focus during busy weeks and unwind at the end of the day.

Popular with Kingston University students include:

All Loomz products are selected with university accommodation in mind, making them ideal for furnished student rooms where permanent alterations aren't permitted.

Why Students Choose Loomz

Students across the UK choose Loomz because we understand what makes university accommodation feel like home.

✔ Designed specifically for university accommodation

✔ Affordable essentials for every student budget

✔ Perfect for halls, flats and shared houses

✔ Free UK delivery

✔ Practical products that make everyday student life easier

Helpful Student Guides

Planning your move? Explore our other useful resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in Kingston University accommodation?

Most university accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe. Students are usually expected to bring their own bedding, towels, cookware and personal belongings.

Where do Kingston University students live?

Many first-year students live in university residences such as Seething Wells, Clayhill, Middle Mill and Kingston Bridge House. Returning students often rent shared houses or flats in Kingston upon Thames, Surbiton, Norbiton and nearby neighbourhoods.

Can I personalise my student room?

Yes. Most students personalise their rooms with bedding, lighting, storage and decorative accessories. Always follow your accommodation provider's guidance and avoid making permanent alterations to walls or furniture.

What should I buy before moving to Kingston University?

Most students need bedding, towels, kitchen equipment, study accessories and practical storage before arriving. Space-saving storage is particularly useful for making the most of student accommodation while keeping your room organised.

Ready for Kingston University?

Moving to Kingston University means joining a friendly university community in one of London's most attractive riverside locations. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your studies and enjoy everything Kingston upon Thames and the capital have to offer.

Browse Loomz's collection of student essentials to find everything you need for your bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and study space before beginning your journey at Kingston University.

Shop student essentials