What to Do in Kensington
The Kensington area of London is dripping in history, untold wealth, elegant boutiques and sumptuous townhouses, palaces and embassies. And if that were not enough it also happens to host some of the most renowned museums in the Western world. It is one of the most visited areas of the capital and a go-to destination for the well-heeled staying in London. In this guide we’re going to look at some of the best things one can do in Kensington. Enjoy!
7 Things to Do in Kensington
The following are 7 of the best things to see and experience when visiting or staying in Kensington, in no particular order of preference.
1: The Victoria & Albert Museum
The V&A as it is affectionately known boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of silver, ironwork, jewellery, period costumes, ceramics and printmaking you will find anywhere. In many ways the collection is a roll-call of empire gathered together from the far-flung corners of the earth between the 16th and 19th centuries. Its meandering hallways and well-appointed galleries transport the visitor back to a time when Britannia ruled the waves.
2: The Royal Albert Hall
Speaking of Prince Albert, the concert hall that bears his name is a functioning memorial opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria. For more than 150 years this 5,272-seat theatre has been a tangible expression of Albert’s love of music, hosting performances by the likes of Richard Wagner and Sergei Rachmoninoff. In 1963 the Beatles played here in front of the Queen Mother with John Lennon famously requesting that those in the cheaper seats applaud and the rest “rattle their jewellery”.
3: Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace was built in 1605 and became a royal residence after being purchased by William and Mary and redesigned by royal architect Christopher Wren. Today it is the official residence in London of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (William and Kate) who officially maintain apartment 1A in the mansion, (although they recently moved to Adelaide Cottage on the grounds of Windsor Castle). Kensington Palace is open to the public from 10 am to 6 pm year-round, except for the 24th to 26th of December.
4: Notting Hill
Notting Hill is one of the most charming neighbourhoods in London with rows of brightly painted townhouses, enchanting side streets, welcoming cafes and countless boutiques. The area was considered a bit threadbare 30 – 40 years ago but has since transformed itself into one of the most exclusive and sought after destinations in London.
5: Portobello Market
While much of Notting Hill has undergone an upscale transformation, Portobello Market on the edge of the neighbourhood has remained largely unchanged. On any given Saturday you’ll find everything from 19th-century war medals, vintage clothing and classic LPs on vinyl, to high-end antiques, breathtaking silverware, hand-painted throw rugs and every imaginable type of street food, freshly prepared for your enjoyment.
6: Holland Park
Many London residents consider Holland Park to be the greatest of London’s many outstanding greenspaces. At 55 acres it’s only about 1/7 the size of Hyde Park but what it lacks in scale it makes up for with its Japanese gardens, intimate footpaths and dizzying array of flora. The park is named for Holland House, a Jacobean era (1603 – 1625) mansion that was, sadly, largely destroyed by German bombs during the blitz. The park is open every day from 7:30 am until 30 minutes before dusk.
7: The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in South Kensington is one of the world centres of natural history research. With some 80 million specimens collected by the likes of Charles Darwin alongside numerous dinosaur fossils, casts from Pompeii and of course, Dippy the dinosaur (recently returned from a multi-year tour of the country) the Natural History Museum is well worth the investment of an afternoon.
Where to Stay in Kensington
If you are searching for an upscale residence in Kensington get in touch with the team at Luxury Serviced Apartments by calling +44 (0) 203 790 7766, or write to info@luxuryservicedapartments.com. We have a vast selection of the finest serviced apartments in Kensington, luxury short-stay accommodations and luxury hotel apartment suites you will find anywhere.