Notting Hill neighbourhood, London
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Notting Hill - by Anabella B from Pixabay
Description
Notting Hill is a neighbourhood in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, in the West of London, just North of Kensington Gardens and High Street Kensington. It is well known for its multicultural neighbourhood, the Portobello Road market and the Notting Hill Carnival (Europe's biggest street festival with a Caribbean theme that takes place during the bank holiday in August). In the early 20th century, the area saw a large influx of Caribbean immigrants attracted by cheap rents - that started to change in the 1980's with the return of single-occupation houses. Within 3 decades, the neighbourhood had become one of the most enjoyable and sought-after in the city.
Access & Transport
The neighbourhood can be accessed by walking north from Kensington Gardens or west from Paddington / Bayswater along Westbourne Grove. The easiest way to get there is with the Central line, at the Notting Hill Gate or Holland Park station. From the north, the Circle and Hammersmith lines stop at Ladbroke Grove and Westbourne Park. There are also plenty of bus services covering the area and it is relatively easy to drive and find parking on most days.
Instructions & Recommendations
We recommend picking a day with fair weather - note that Portobello Road market doesn't take place on Sundays and is at its best and most crowded on Saturday mornings. A visit to the neighbourhood is best combined with Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace or Westfield London if you are planning some mall-style shopping.
Environmental & Social
It is an urban environment but no high rises with a fair number of private gardens and trees. The flow of visitors gives some vibrancy and allow independent boutiques, artists and restaurateurs to operate.
Conclusion
Notting Hill is one of the most enjoyable neighbourhoods to wander in, it is colourful with plenty of common gardens that add a dash of green in spring and summer - and there definitely is an artsy feel to the place. No real star of the show here, so more of a place to spend some time in if you have 5 days or more in London or if this is a return visit to the city.
Key positive
Quite a distinct feel from other neighbourhoods in the city
Great street photography potential
Not central but easy to get to
Key negative
Some streets can feel quite touristy at times, especially near Portobello Road market
Suitability
Suitable for all ages although younger kids may not take much pleasure in an urban walk. Pavements and street crossings can mostly be navigated by wheelchair users but there is quite a long slope to get to the top of Ladbroke Grove and even the Portobello Road market has a short steep section.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:2h
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo