Kensington
Our guide
Kensington is a prestigious, sought after area just west of central London that's home to many historic and cultural venues such as The Royal Albert Hall, The Natural History Museum, The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) and Imperial College. Kensington is one of the most affluent areas of London, reflected in it’s offering of high end shops, boutiques and eateries.
Stations: South Kensington Underground (Circle, District and Picadilly lines), Gloucester Road Underground (Circle, District and Picadilly lines), Earl's Court Underground (District and Picadilly lines), Kensington Olympia Underground (District line), Holland Park Underground (Central line), Kensington Olympia Overground (Mildmay line, Southern Railway)
What kind of vibe does Kensington have?
With strong royal connections – Kensington Gardens as one of the eight royal parks of London, and Kensington Palace - the area has a regal and high class feel. The buildings are characterful displaying some of the best examples of Victorian and Georgian architecture that London has to offer. The iconic terraced houses with white column fronts are now synonymous with an affluent area.
How well-connected is Kensington?
Kensington offers three tube stations on the Circle & District and Picadilly lines. You are minutes from the very heart of London – under 10 minutes on the tube to Picadilly/Leicester Square or Covent Garden, and for frequent flyers, Heathrow is only 35 minutes on the tube.
Where can I grab a morning coffee in Kensington?
Hjem on Gloucester Road, South Kensington may seem an odd choice in such a classically ‘London’ area, but this Scandinavian café bakes fresh bread and serves up delicious coffee. Meaning ‘home’ in Danish – the owner definitely brings a homely feel to this well put together café. Check out their instagram for a tour of their very stylish space.
Give me 3 spots to go for dinner
Ffionas on Kensington Church Street regularly tops lists of the best restaurants in Kensington – described as a ‘hidden gem’. The décor is kitsch and they offer British cuisine with a twist. They also do incredible brunches full of pancakes, crispy bacon and eggs however you like them.
Akira is a renowned Japanese restaurant offering authentic Japanese food in an ultra cool and sleek setting. It’s worth ordering here just to look at the food – the presentation is next level!
Finally, if you have a special occasion then of all the branches why not try The Ivy Kensington, a perfect setting for this high end Brasserie. Service is always on point, and it always feels quite decadent. They put a lot into their decors, and the menu never disappoints.
How would I spend a Saturday in Kensington?
After grabbing a coffee at one of the many artisan coffee shops, I would spend the morning browsing on Kensington High Street – a mixture of high end boutiques and the usual high street brands. A late brunch at Ffionas – eggs benny, naturally, and then it’s a quick left turn and a short stroll to get to Portobello Market. A great place to spend the afternoon browsing the second hand stalls and the antique shops which are a maze of corridors of treasures. And no Saturday would be complete without a cocktail at the renowned Kensington Roof Gardens, enjoying the view.
Where's the best place to be if you want to be outdoors?
Kensington has lots to offer in terms of outdoor attractions. Kensington Gardens of course - one of the Royal Parks of London - offers great space for walks and tranquility. Kensington Memorial Park also offers a small splash park for kids, which is great in the Summer.
What's Kensington's hidden gem?
Kensington boasts some brilliant charity shops – that are so well put together you would be forgiven for walking past and thinking it was a high end boutique. If you are a thrifter, then the quality and designer brands that this area has on offer in charity shops is worth visiting for!
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