We’ve spent a lot of time getting to know Kensington, finding favorite cafés, charming corners and the kinds of places that make this neighborhood feel like home. It’s one of those very special parts of London where it’s easy to settle in, and we love helping our guests experience that same feeling. When you stay in one of our Kensington vacation rentals, you’re not just here to see the sights, you’re here to really live in one of London’s most charming neighborhoods.
We always share our complete Kensington neighborhood guide with our guests, filled with the best tips and favorite spots. But we love this neighborhood so much that we couldn’t resist giving you a little look inside our local address book. Whether you’re planning your first visit or you already know the joys of Kensington living, here are just a few of the places we return to again and again – and that we know you’ll love too!
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Kensington Morning Rituals
There’s nothing better than starting your day with a great cup of coffee or tea, especially when you’re just steps from some of London’s most beautiful green spaces. Our guests love picking up a morning drink, then enjoying a stroll through nearby Kensington Gardens or Holland Park. Here are some of our favorite places to begin the day:
- Sip & Rise (73 Kensington Church Street): The pastry display alone is enough to lure you in, but the friendly neighborhood atmosphere will keep you coming back.
- La Caffettiera (40A Kensington Church Street): A charming local café—and a favorite with the London Perfect team—with excellent iced coffee and a small deli filled with tempting options.
- The De Morgan Café at the Leighton House Museum (12 Holland Park Road): A peaceful and creative way to start your day. Enjoy coffee and a pastry in a beautiful setting overlooking the Leighton House garden or head out for a longer walk in Holland Park.
Stroll through history at Kensington Palace.
Museums Without the Crowds
Kensington’s Museum Row is home to three of London’s biggest stars—the Natural History Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Science Museum—all absolutely worth a visit. But there are also some smaller gems and historic spots that make Kensington such a creative corner of London:
- Leighton House & Sambourne House (12 Holland Park Road & 18 Stafford Terrace): These two beautifully preserved homes are a window into Victorian London’s artistic and domestic life. Leighton House dazzles with its Moorish interiors, while the Linley Sambourne House offers a glimpse into an untouched late 19th-century family home – right down to the wallpaper.
- Kensington Palace (Kensington Gardens): One of London’s most fascinating royal residences, with stories of queens past and present. Don’t miss the Dress Codes fashion exhibition, which explores royal style through the centuries. You’ll love taking daily strolls through Kensington Gardens during your stay at Thackeray, a spacious London home with an elegant address.
- Design Museum (224-238 Kensington High Street): Housed in a striking modern building, the Design Museum explores the world of architecture, fashion, product design and innovation. Exhibitions are fresh, interactive and often surprising. It’s a creative complement to Kensington’s historic charm.
- Serpentine Gallery (Kensington Gardens): A contemporary art gallery in a beautiful setting in Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine hosts bold, visually stunning exhibitions – all with free entry. The annual Serpentine Pavilion is also a must-see for architecture lovers.
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Cafés & Afternoon Tea
For a relaxing break or an afternoon out, these spots offer great settings to slow down and soak in the atmosphere, whether you’re people-watching over a coffee or indulging in classic afternoon tea.
- The Orangery at Kensington Palace (Kensington Gardens): Set on the palace grounds, this elegant spot is perfect for a royal afternoon tea. The light-filled space and garden views are as lovely as the tea service itself. It’s a great afternoon spot during your stay at our beautiful Holland Cottage vacation rental.
- Holland Park Café (Ilchester Place, Holland Park): A casual and scenic café tucked into the heart of Holland Park – great for coffee, lunch or a sweet treat while exploring one of London’s prettiest parks.
- Royal Albert Hall (Kensington Gore): In addition to being one of the city’s most iconic venues, the on-site café serves a beautiful afternoon tea. And if you have time, book a tour to learn more about the venue’s fascinating history and architecture. Stroll over for a tour or tea experience during your stay at the Kensington Court.
The Churchill Arms is one of London’s loveliest pubs!
Classic London Pubs
Kensington has no shortage of charming pubs, many of which have been neighborhood fixtures for generations. Here are some of our favorite spots for a pint, a cozy meal or a casual evening out:
- The Churchill Arms (119 Kensington Church Street): Famous for its over-the-top floral displays and warm atmosphere, this pub is as much a photo stop as a local favorite. If you’re staying at our beautiful Austen vacation rental in Kensington, you’ll be just around the corner from this colorful spot!
- Scarsdale Tavern (23A Edwardes Square): A welcoming pub just off a quiet residential square, perfect for a relaxed drink or traditional British fare. This will surely become your favorite neighborhood spot when you’re staying at the Tennyson!
- The Queen’s Arms (30 Queen’s Gate Mews): A classic mews pub with great ambiance – ideal for a low-key evening near South Kensington. Our guests at the Middleton and Hyde Park vacation rentals, both located nearby, say this is one of their favorite parts of the location!
A Perfect Evening in Kensington
Whether you’re heading out for a romantic dinner or something more casual before a show, these local restaurants offer great food and atmosphere all just a short stroll from our Kensington apartments.
- The Abingdon (54 Abingdon Road): A stylish neighborhood restaurant and wine bar that we just love. Expect warm service and a seasonal British menu that’s both comforting and contemporary. Become one of the locals at this restaurant during your stay at The Martin, a stunning London home rental located around the corner.
- Belvedere (Holland Park, Abbotsbury Road): Located in a 17th-century building in the heart of Holland Park, this elegant restaurant pairs fine Italian dining with a setting that feels like a secret garden escape. Its history stretches back centuries, but the food is refreshingly modern. This is often a trip highlight meal for our guests staying at the gorgeous Phillimore vacation rental near Holland Park.
- Kitchen W8 (11-13 Abingdon Road): A refined neighborhood restaurant with a loyal local following. The seasonal British menu has a creative touch, and the service makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed but special evening.
- Cacciari’s (82 Old Brompton Road): This cozy spot offers fresh, authentic Italian food and an all-Italian wine list. If a great choice if you’re staying at the spacious Conrad mews home or the Radcliffe nearby. Or it’s also a perfect pre-theater dinner choice, especially with South Kensington tube station just around the corner where you can easily hop on the Piccadilly line.
- Jacuzzi (94 Kensington High Street): Part of the Big Mamma group, this exuberant Italian restaurant is equal parts glamour and fun with its garden-inspired interiors, indulgent pasta dishes and creative cocktails.
Find all the charms of Kensington at your doorstep at the Phillimore.
Ready to experience Kensington like a local? With one of our hand-picked apartments as your home base, you’ll be perfectly placed to enjoy all these favorites just around the corner. Find out more at London Perfect and contact our team at [email protected] for help planning your perfect London stay!
