Kingston possesses a special blend of the old and the new; it is a vibrant urban centre and one of south Londons most popular shopping destinations, offering an extensive range of shops and services. Amidst the modern arcades and office blocks is the historic market place, framed by buildings dating from the 12th to 16th century, which is the surviving core of the original mediaeval market town. Over the past few years Kingston has seen many new developments, particularly on the beautiful Thames river front; in addition to stylish new riverside apartments, the property market also includes Victorian, Edwardian, and 1930s properties. The new theatre, scheduled to open in autumn 2004, forms part of an attractive mixed development of apartments, shops, and restaurants. There is a mainline train station providing a direct link with central London, and a good bus service.