Open House Festival

County Hall Kingston

housing

Charles Henry Howell, 1893


Penrhyn Road, Kingston, KT1 2DN

London Square presents a rare opportunity to step inside a sensitively restored former Surrey County Hall, which will be transformed into a collection of contemporary new-build homes to buy and commercial areas for hire. Set in the heart of Kingston, this is a unique opportunity to experience County Hall from the inside out—before its next chapter begins.

Getting there

Train

Kingston, Surbiton

Bus

281, 406, 418, 465, 71, K2

Access

Facilities

Accessibility notes

There is no step‑free access or lifts. Visitors will need to use the 2–3 steps at the front of the building to enter.

What you can expect

Part of the site is under construction, so expect some construction noise and visible building works during your visit.

Create a free visitor account to book festival tickets

Drop in activities

Wed 16 Sep

11:00–16:00

Drop in: Open Day Tour

Walk around some parts of the heritage building and self-read some of its history, planning and how it will be transformed.

Fri 18 Sep

11:00–16:00

Drop in: Open Day Tour

Walk around some parts of the heritage building and self-read some of its history, planning and how it will be transformed.

Sat 19 Sep

10:00–17:00

Drop in: Open Day Tour

Walk around some parts of the heritage building and self-read some of its history, planning and how it will be transformed.

Activities

Thu 17 Sep

Other

11:00–16:00

Open Day Tour

Visitors will be able to speak with the architects and sales team about the heritage building and how it will be transformed

How to book

You'll need to log into your account before you book.

About

Introduction

Step inside the former Surrey County Hall for a rare chance to explore one of Kingston’s most significant civic landmarks. Usually closed to the public, this grand Edwardian complex opens its doors for a special architecture and design event celebrating the building’s past, present and future.

Visitors will be be able to walk through the corridors, chambers and hidden corners of this historic seat of local government, uncovering stories of civic life, public service and the everyday Londoners who shaped the borough’s identity. From its imposing façades to its crafted interiors, the building offers a rich example of early‑20th‑century municipal architecture—designed to project stability, pride and democratic purpose.

Through architectural storytelling on display boards and a chance to speak to the architects and project team currently working on the site’s transformation, you can explore how heritage buildings can be sensitively adapted for contemporary use. You’ll be able to read about the challenges and opportunities of sustainable reuse, the importance of preserving civic memory, and the role of design in honouring working‑class and under‑represented voices in London’s history.

Whether you’re passionate about architecture, fascinated by local history or simply curious to see inside a building that has shaped Kingston for over a century, this is a unique opportunity to experience County Hall from the inside out—before its next chapter begins.

Online presence

countyhallkingston.co.uk

instagram.com/londonsquare

Nearby

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