This Surrey Mummy

There is something, I can't put my finger on it but there is just something about the river and being on a boat.

We've had this idea for months that we wanted to get a boat from Hampton Court to Kingston with the kids where we would stop and have a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants on the river. The restaurants by the river by Kingston Bridge has definitely taken on a "South Bank" type of vibe in more recent months, so when I was contacted to see if I would like to take a trip on a boat to Kingston with Turks boat trips Webbo and I jumped at the chance!

So, last Sunday we hot footed it down to Hampton Court, parked the car in the station car park - a total bargain at just £2 and made our way across the bridge to where the boats launch.

We were a little early and given it was a lovely balmy day decided that an pre-boat trip ice cream would be in order! Naturally given that Hector had been up super early he fell asleep in the car and proceeded to sleep through the ice cream.

"Believe me my your friend there is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply
messing about in boats!" - Wind And The Willows

We boarded the boat at Hampton Court Palace and headed to the top deck to make the most of the journey. Hector at this point had woken and was mesmerised to have woken up on a boat! I'd lost count of the times he said "boat boat boat" by the time we had got to Kingston!

It took about half an hour to get into Kingston and we disembarked and had a wander along the river to the restaurants.

We picked Jackson & Rye to dine at. Now this is a restaurant we have walked past many a time but never ventured in, but we headed in and picked a spot by the window so we would people watch!

The boys opted for Mac 'N' Cheese and and their cheese burger. I was wearing my stretchy trousers and dived straight into their mixed platter where the brisket was to die for!!!

Webbo looking like he's come straight out of his latest cook book!

The menu at Jackson & Rye is really varied and the portions are really very generous and Webbo highly recommends the ribs! They also have a fabulous cocktail menu and the kids menu is really sensible with some simple options to some that will challenge even the most foodie of kids.

We had a super day out and one that I am glad we did having chatted about it for so long! If you are local to Kingston then I can't recommend a little jaunt up the river and to stop at one of the many fantastic restaurants that the town has to offer. A great day out!