Welcome to Kensington, a vibrant district tucked away in the heart of London! If you’re looking for a delightful escape, this neighborhood has it all: charming streets, breathtaking parks, and plenty of hidden gems.
Let me take you on a journey through the streets of Kensington, sharing my favorite spots and insider tips.
Exploring Kensington: From Palaces to Pretty Mews
Kensington sits nestled between the bustling areas of
Notting Hill
and
South Kensington
. It’s known for its elegance, boasting colorful houses, charming mews, and impressive architecture.
Step into Kensington and be transported to a world of hidden pubs, bustling shopping streets, and picturesque photo opportunities. The area also houses the iconic Kensington Palace and its captivating gardens, offering a glimpse into royal history.
Reaching Kensington: A Breeze
Getting to Kensington is a simple affair! The area is easily accessible by tube, bus, and on foot.
For a tube journey, hop off at Kensington High Street for a central location in the neighborhood.
Notting Hill
Gate and Gloucester Road stations offer alternative access points for a stroll through the area.
Buses from across London connect to Kensington, making it convenient to explore by public transport. To find the most suitable bus route, simply check which one stops closest to your desired destination.
Feeling energetic? Walk to Kensington from nearby areas like
Hyde Park
, Notting Hill,
South Kensington
, and Earls Court. Enjoy the pleasant walk and soak in the London ambiance.
Staying in Style: The Baglioni Hotel
If you want to experience Kensington like a local, I highly recommend staying at the Baglioni Hotel. It’s strategically located right on Kensington Gardens, offering stunning views of the park.
I’ve had the pleasure of staying here myself, and I can attest to the hotel’s quality and charm. The restaurant and bar are fantastic for enjoying a meal or drinks with a sophisticated ambiance.
Green Spaces and Royal Delights: Kensington Gardens and Palace
Kensington Gardens is one of my favorite London parks! Spend your time admiring the vibrant flowers, wandering under the vine arches, and soaking in the tranquility.
In the warmer months, the sprawling lawns are perfect for picnics, while the historic Orangery offers an exquisite afternoon tea experience. As dusk descends, the sky above the gardens paints a breathtaking spectacle of pink hues, making for a truly magical evening.
Kensington Palace, a magnificent royal residence, is open to the public for guided tours. Explore the State Apartments, immerse yourself in special exhibitions, and be captivated by the lavish interiors. However, do note that the ticket price can be somewhat steep for the experience.
Adjacent to the palace lies Kensington Palace Gardens, a street brimming with elegance. It’s home to ambassadors’ residences and embassies, showcasing some of the most impressive mansions in the UK capital. Take a leisurely walk down this magnificent street, but remember that photography is prohibited.
Kensington Church Street: A Hub of Delight
Just a short distance from Kensington Palace Gardens is the vibrant Kensington Church Street. This bustling street stretches between Kensington and
Notting Hill
, lined with an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
The cozy Candella Tea Room is a favorite for its wide array of teas and charming atmosphere. A stroll past The Churchill Arms pub is sure to bring a smile, with its captivating flower-festooned facade.
For a delightful dinner experience, Maggie Jones’s is a must-visit. This neighborhood establishment serves delicious British fare in a warm and intimate setting.
If you’re seeking a night out, Dirty Bones is the place to be. This subterranean speakeasy offers a vibrant ambiance with a pinball machine, delicious cocktails, and secret doors leading to clandestine spaces, guaranteeing a fun evening.
Kensington High Street: A Shopper’s Paradise
Kensington Church Street flows into the bustling Kensington High Street. The stretch between Kensington Palace Gardens and Holland Park is a treasure trove for shoppers, with everything from a massive Whole Foods to sporting goods stores and an array of restaurants.
Take a break from exploring the parks and treat yourself to a leisurely browse along the high street.
Hidden Gems: Kensington’s Best Restaurants and Pubs
Venture off the high street, and you’ll discover some of Kensington’s finest culinary treasures and cozy pubs.
Unpretentious Kitchen W8 is one of my favorite restaurants in London. Despite its Michelin star, it maintains a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a focus on exceptional food and service.
For a classic pub experience, The Builders Arms is a perfect choice. Tucked away on a side street, it offers a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks.
Another hidden gem is The Queen’s Arms, nestled in a charming mews near Gloucester Road. It’s a fantastic spot for a post-concert drink after enjoying a performance at the Royal Albert Hall.
Exploring Kensington’s Enchanting Mews
Anyone who knows me knows my love for London’s hidden mews. Kensington is a treasure trove of these charming alleyways, and exploring them is one of my favorite pastimes.
Kynance Mews is the most famous, with its quaint houses and cobblestone streets. It’s especially captivating during autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant hues, and in spring, when the wisteria blooms in full glory.
Osten Mews is another gem, with its vine-covered facades and colorful doors, adding a touch of whimsy to the neighborhood. And let’s not forget Adam and Eve Mews, with its delightful name, a testament to the charm of these alleyways.
Beyond the Mews: Kensington’s Scenic Streets
Kensington’s beauty extends beyond its charming mews. Launceston Place is a haven of elegance, with grand houses, a fine dining restaurant, and a charming flower shop.
Abingdon Road is renowned for its stunning spring wisteria, cascading over doorways and windows like a magical display.
Up near
Notting Hill
, Farmer Street and Hillgate Place offer a delightful array of colorful houses, always bringing a smile to my face. It’s a joy to spot a classic Nissan Figaro parked in front of these colorful residences, a reminder of the whimsical nature of the neighborhood.
If you’re eager to explore these streets and more, my self-guided Kensington walk is a great resource. It’s a wonderful way to discover the hidden gems of the neighborhood.
My Kensington Love Affair
I find myself drawn back to Kensington time and again. The captivating architecture, the cobbled mews with their secret passageways, and the breathtaking parks and gardens make it a neighborhood that never fails to inspire. I’m truly fortunate to call Kensington home!
So, if you’re looking for a captivating escape in the heart of London, make sure to add Kensington to your list. You’ll be amazed by its charm, beauty, and abundance of hidden gems.
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