If I had to recommend a perfect day out in any London borough, it would undoubtedly be the iconic borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Known for its upscale boutiques, high-end sports bars, and affluent residents, this area is often associated with luxury. However, I’ve had some of the most enjoyable and inexpensive summer afternoons exploring its charming streets, beautiful parks, and cultural hotspots. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this guide will help you experience Kensington in a fun and affordable way.
Picnic in the park
Starting your day at High Street Kensington Station, the first stop I’d recommend is Ben’s Cookies to grab a delicious treat. This beloved bakery is known for its freshly baked, gooey cookies – my personal favourites are the matcha white chocolate or classic chocolate chip. Once you have your snack in hand, consider renting a Santander or Lime bike to explore the nearby parks.
Just a short ride from the station, Kensington Gardens offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This lush green space connects seamlessly to Hyde Park, making it the perfect setting for a relaxing bike ride or stroll. If you’re in the mood for a picnic, I highly recommend grabbing a takeaway meal from Wagamama. They’re currently offering a 20% off discount, making it an affordable and tasty option to enjoy under the sun. Find a shady spot under the trees or settle by the Round Pond, where you can watch the swans glide across the water as you enjoy your meal.
Museums
After soaking in the greenery, it’s time to explore some of Kensington’s world-class museums. A short walk from the park, the Serpentine South Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, this contemporary art gallery showcases a diverse range of exhibitions featuring artists from various cultural backgrounds and artistic mediums. Even better, admission is completely free!
If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss their newest exhibition – Giuseppe Penone: Thoughts in the Roots. Penone’s work spans sculptures, paintings, installations, and photography, offering a deep and thought-provoking look at nature and transformation.
If you have extra time and want to explore more, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum are both just a short distance away. Both are free to enter, and their impressive collections make them ideal stops for anyone interested in science, history, fashion, or design.
Thrifting
After immersing yourself in culture, it’s time for a little shopping adventure. Exit Hyde Park from the Notting Hill Gate side and take a leisurely walk towards the famous Portobello Road Market. This vibrant street is packed with unique vintage shops, bookshops, and antique stalls, offering something for everyone.
A hidden gem worth visiting is Notting Hill Comic Exchange, a cosy second-hand bookshop located near the top of Pembridge Road. One of the best things about this store is its selection of £1 books tucked away in the back, where you can often find literary treasures at a bargain price. If you love vintage books or comics, you’ll definitely enjoy browsing through the shelves here.
Across the street from the bookshop is Sebastiano Barbagallo, an antique shop that frequently stocks unique and beautiful pieces of jewellery at reasonable prices. However, if you’re looking for a wider selection of vintage accessories, head further down to Portobello Road Market. This world-renowned market is the largest antiques market in the world, and it’s open Monday through Saturday. For the best experience and the largest variety of vendors, plan your visit for a Friday or Saturday, when the market is in full swing.
Kensington offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and shopping, making it one of London’s best boroughs for a day out. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic in Kensington Gardens, immersing yourself in art and history at the Serpentine Gallery, or hunting for hidden treasures in Notting Hill, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, many of these activities are affordable or even free, proving that you don’t need to break the bank for a great day out.
So next time you’re looking for a way to spend a leisurely day in London, consider heading to Kensington- you might discover your new favourite spot in the city!
