Living
in Kensington

Discover the allure of Kensington, London, through our comprehensive local guide. Uncover the neighbourhood's rich history, explore its cultural landmarks, and navigate the vibrant streets lined with upscale shops and eateries. 

History 

Kensington has a rich and varied history, dating back centuries, and has played a significant role in shaping London's cultural, social, and political landscape.

Kensington's history can be traced back to Roman times, when it was a rural area on the outskirts of London. The name "Kensington" is believed to have Saxon origins, initially appearing in historical records around the 11th century.

Today, Kensington stands as one of London's most exclusive areas, known for its upscale properties, cultural institutions, and royal connections. It's a blend of historic charm and modern sophistication, attracting residents and visitors from around the world.

Notable figures and events in Kensington's history include the residence of Princess Diana at Kensington Palace, the establishment of the Victoria and Albert Museum, the infamous Great Exhibition of 1851 held in Hyde Park, and the enduring influence of notable architects and designers on the area's architecture and urban planning.

The legacy of its past is interwoven with its present, contributing to Kensington's enduring allure and historical significance.

Popular Locations 

Kensington Palace and Gardens

Kensington Palace, a historic royal residence, has been a royal home for centuries. It's rich with history, being the birthplace of Queen Victoria and a former residence of Princess Diana. The palace is a mix of architectural styles, including Baroque and Georgian.

The surrounding Kensington Gardens offer a serene escape from the city, with beautiful landscapes, sculptures, and the famous Round Pond. Visitors can tour the State Rooms of the palace and explore the lush gardens.

Kensington High Street

Kensington High Street is a vibrant and bustling retail district, a shopping haven for both locals and tourists. It hosts a wide array of shops, ranging from luxury boutiques to well-known brands, department stores, and designer stores.

Alongside shopping, you'll find an abundance of cafés, restaurants, and bars, offering diverse cuisines and delightful dining experiences. The street is also a cultural hub, with theatres, art galleries, and entertainment venues.

Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum

The Museum Quarter in Kensington is a treasure trove of knowledge and culture. The Natural History Museum showcases the wonders of the natural world, including dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits.

The Science Museum explores science, technology, and innovation, making learning a fun experience. The Victoria and Albert Museum, renowned for its art, design, and fashion collections, takes visitors on a journey through centuries of creativity and craftsmanship.

Royal Albert Hall

The Royal Albert Hall is an architectural masterpiece and a globally recognized concert hall. It's famous for its distinctive circular design and exceptional acoustics, making it a prime venue for concerts, ballets, operas, and other cultural events. Visitors can attend performances by world-class artists or take a guided tour to learn about the hall's history and architecture.

Holland Park

Holland Park is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the midst of Kensington. This 54-acre public park features formal gardens, woodlands, a Japanese garden, sports facilities, and a playground.

The highlight is Holland House, a Jacobean mansion that was badly damaged during World War II but retains its charm. The park is a perfect place for a leisurely walk, a relaxing picnic, or simply enjoying nature's tranquillity amidst the bustling city.

Transport Links

Kensington, located in West London, is well-connected to the rest of the city and beyond through an extensive network of transport links. These include buses, the London Underground, trains, and convenient road connections.

London Underground (Tube)

• High Street Kensington Station (District and Circle lines)
• Gloucester Road Station (District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines)
• Earl's Court Station (District and Piccadilly lines)

Bus Services

Kensington is well-served by numerous bus routes, allowing for easy travel within the neighbourhood and to neighbouring areas. Buses provide an excellent way to explore the city and enjoy the sights while travelling above ground.

Rail Services

While Kensington primarily relies on the London Underground for local transport, areas have overground train stations that can be easily accessed:

• Paddington Station: Located nearby, Paddington Station offers access to national rail services, including the Heathrow Express to Heathrow Airport and trains to other major cities in the UK.
• Victoria Station: A major railway and underground station, Victoria Station is accessible via a short Tube journey and provides connections to Gatwick Airport and other destinations.

Cycling and Walking

Kensington offers bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets, encouraging cycling and walking as viable transportation options. Cycling is an eco-friendly and healthy way to explore the neighbourhood and nearby areas.

In summary, Kensington's well-developed transport infrastructure ensures that residents and visitors have a multitude of options for getting around, making it easy to navigate both locally and throughout London.

Kensington offers a plethora of cafés, restaurants, and amenities to suit various tastes and preferences. Here's a selection of popular establishments you may want to consider visiting:

Must-Visit Amenities

Cafés:

• Muriel's Kitchen is a charming café offering British comfort food, cakes, and a cosy, vintage-inspired ambiance. 
• Another historic café and live music venue, The Troubadour, is known for its artistic heritage, coffee, and diverse menu. 
• A stylish French café Aubaine is serving a range of French pastries, brunch, and light meals in an elegant setting.

Restaurants:

• An upscale Indian restaurant Dishoom possesses delicious traditional and modern Indian dishes in a lively and vibrant setting.
• The Ivy Kensington Brasserie, a chic brasserie, offers a diverse menu of modern British and international dishes with an elegant ambiance. 
• A seafood-focused restaurant called Wright Brothers serves fresh oysters and a variety of seafood delicacies in a contemporary setting.

Housing Market

The housing market in Kensington is characterized by its prestige, luxury, and high property prices. This region is renowned for being one of the most affluent and sought-after neighbourhoods in London, attracting a mix of wealthy residents, international buyers, and affluent professionals.

Here's an overview of the key features of the housing market in Kensington:

Property Prices

Property prices in Kensington are among the highest in London and the UK. The area's desirability and central location contribute to the steep property values. Houses, apartments, and townhouses often command a premium due to the exclusivity of the neighbourhood.

Types of Residencies

The housing market in Kensington offers a variety of property types, including grand Victorian and Edwardian houses, elegant Georgian-style homes, luxury flats, and modern developments. The architecture is often characterized by historic charm and sophistication.

International Investments

Kensington has long been a magnet for international investors, with buyers from around the world seeking property in this prestigious neighbourhood. International investors are drawn to Kensington's stability, cultural richness, and the potential for a high return on investment.

Ongoing developments

Kensington has seen ongoing and planned development projects, including luxury residential complexes and apartment buildings. These dwellings aim to cater to the demand for high-end, modern living spaces while maintaining the neighbourhood's unique character.