Kensington is an affluent and charming neighbourhood in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. As home to the monarchy for centuries, it’s no wonder why this exclusive district is one of London’s most sought-after destinations. With its stunning Victorian architecture, high-end shopping options, and cultural attractions, Kensington is a favourite among both locals and tourists alike.
Culture
Kensington is rich in culture, boasting a dynamic cultural scene home to world-class museums such as The Design Museum, Science Museum, and National History Museum. If you’re a museum enthusiast, staying in one of our Kensington homes is a must-do experience, as all of these cultural gems are located in close proximity to each other. The iconic Royal Albert Hall is also a must-visit for any traveler, offering a wide range of events, from concerts to film screenings, featuring some of the world’s most renowned musicians and performers. Holland Park is another cultural highlight, with its annual opera festival set among the gardens of the original Holland House.
Parks & Green Spaces
Kensington is home to some of London’s most beautiful parks and green spaces, including the famous Kensington Gardens, one of the capital’s eight Royal Parks. This park spans 265 acres and features formal avenues of trees, ornamental flower beds, and the Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. Additionally, Holland Park is a sprawling 22-hectare park featuring sports areas for tennis, football, golf, and netball, a children’s play area, a cafeteria, and large areas of woodland where you can spot plenty of wildlife. The Kyoto Garden, donated by the Chamber of Commerce of Kyoto in 1991, is a must-see within Holland Park.
Dining
Foodies will be thrilled with the dining scene in Kensington, as there are plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants, gourmet brunch spots, and elegant bars to choose from. Kitchen W8, located opposite the Interlet office on Abingdon Road, offers indulgent tasting menus alongside a la carte and Sunday lunch options, making it the perfect venue for any occasion. If you’re after traditional farmhouse-style British food in a cozy, rustic atmosphere, Maggie Jones’s is a must-visit. The Windsor Castle is another great option for seasonal pub grub and legendary Sunday roast. For trendy and sophisticated pubs, bars, and coffee shops, Kensington has a great selection, including The Kensington Roof Gardens, Dirty Bones, and The Orangery.
Shopping
When it comes to shopping, Kensington’s selection of elegant independent boutiques and retail outlets on Kensington High Street is hard to beat. The Japan House is a unique experience that celebrates Japanese art, design, cuisine, and innovation. For the ultimate luxury shopping experience, Harrods and Harvey Nichols are just a short trip away from Knightsbridge. But for a more exclusive and sustainable shopping experience, Sign of the Times is a renowned second-hand shop that specializes in high-end designer pieces, including Chanel, Versace, Prada, and Gucci, at a fraction of the original price.
Transport
Transportation in Kensington is convenient, with High Street Underground Station providing easy access to wider London via the Circle and District Lines. Notting Hill Gate and Gloucester Road Underground Stations are also easily accessible via the Central and Piccadilly Lines respectively. For eco-commuters, cycling routes take you through more than 250 acres of parkland in the area, while road connections provide easy access to the West End.
