The Thursday Murders Club meets each week at St Marys Community Centre in Kingston upon Thames, a quiet yet centrally located venue that balances accessibility with a cozy, bookish atmosphere. This group also hosts occasional sessions at Kingston Library's adjoining meeting room, giving members a change of scenery while preserving the same familiar pattern of discussion and tea.
Designed for retirees and semi-retired locals, the club focuses on crime novels, cold case debates, and light detective role play, and its welcoming environment has helped it grow into one of the most active reading groups in the borough. Below is a quick reference for anyone trying to understand where the Thursday Murders Club meets, how the locations compare, and what newcomers can expect.
| Location | Day | Capacity | Transport links | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St Marys Community Centre, Kingston upon Thames | Thursday, 2:00 PM | 25 | Kingston railway station (10 min walk), S2, K1 buses | kingstonlibrary@kingston.gov.uk |
| Kingston Library Main Meeting Room | Thursday, alternate weeks, 2:00 PM | 30 | Kingston railway station (12 min walk), S2, K1, K2 buses | kingstonlibrary@kingston.gov.uk |
| Venue layout | — | Seated classroom style | Step-free access at both venues | Pre-booking required |
| Onsite amenities | — | Tea, biscuits, accessible toilets | Free Wi-Fi available | Small charge for refreshments |
Wednesday Evening Transport Options
Getting to St Marys Community Centre
Members traveling by rail usually arrive at Kingston station and walk downhill along Broadway, which is lined with cafés and bookshops, creating a pleasant pre-meeting stroll. Bus routes S2 and K1 stop on London Road within a two minute walk, making the journey straightforward even for first time visitors.
Accessibility at Both Venues
Step free entry and seating
Both the community centre and the library meeting room are wheelchair friendly, with step free entrances, ground floor seating, and adjustable lighting. The organizers note these features clearly on the booking form so that members can request appropriate rooms in advance.
Summer Schedule and Backup Plan
Venue changes during holidays
During school holidays and major council events, the club sometimes moves entirely to Kingston Library to keep numbers manageable and maintain the familiar discussion format. Members receive an email a week before confirming the exact room, along with any updated transport guidance.
Discussion Format and Themes
How each meeting unfolds
Each session begins with a brief welcome and housekeeping, followed by a short presentation of that week’s case or chapter, a guided group discussion, open debate, and finally a quick vote on the suspected culprit. The structure keeps the conversation lively while ensuring quieter members still have space to contribute.
Key Takeaways for New Members
- Primary meeting spot is St Marys Community Centre in Kingston upon Thames on Thursday afternoons.
- Alternate sessions are held at Kingston Library Main Meeting Room during select weeks.
- Both venues are accessible, comfortable, and close to Kingston railway station.
- Small refreshment charge applies, and booking in advance is essential.
- The club maintains a structured yet friendly format that supports lively debate and case solving.
FAQ
Reader questions
How often does the club meet and are bookings required
The Thursday Murders Club meets weekly on Thursdays at 2:00 PM, and advance booking is required for both venues due to limited room sizes.
Can I attend just one session as a newcomer
Yes, visitors are welcome for a single session, and organizers ask you to contact them in advance so they can confirm space and prepare materials.
What should I bring to the meeting
You only need to bring your enthusiasm for crime fiction; organizers provide books, discussion notes, and refreshments, although you may bring your own notes if you prefer.
Are the venues suitable for wheelchair users
Both St Marys Community Centre and Kingston Library meeting room offer step free access, ground floor seating, and accessible toilets, with details listed on the booking page.