Shopping in Kensington
Widely considered one of the best high streets in London, on any given weekend native Londoners and tourists alike flock to Kensington's high street for a little retail therapy.
Widely considered one of the best high streets in London, on any given weekend native Londoners and tourists alike flock to Kensington's high street for a little retail therapy.
The Kensington shopping scene is anchored by Kensington High Street, a major thoroughfare running from Hammersmith straight through to Kensington Gardens. The street features a wide variety of brand name stores, including teen-friendly Urban Outfitters, H&M and American Apparel. Sprinkled in amongst the shops are several cafés, restaurants and London’s largest Whole Foods branch. At its center the high street is intersected by Kensington Church Street (look for the large church with a lovely flower shop at its base), which boasts its own fair share of fashionable outlets. Sheltered from the hustle and bustle of the high street, leafy Kensington Church Street is where you’ll find higher end British brands, such as L.K.Bennett, Sweaty Betty, Reiss and Neal’s Yard Remedies.
L.K.Bennett
Fans of this London label include one of Kensington’s most notable residents, The Duchess of Cambridge. L.K.Bennett’s collection of shoes, clothing, handbags and accessories add a contemporary - and decidedly British - touch to any wardrobe.
Orsini Vintage
Nestled on a quiet residential road just off Kensington High Street, Orsini Vintage holds a treasure trove of high-end vintage fashion. Specialising in designer clothing and jewelry from the 1920s to the 1980s, tiny Orsini is chocked full of Chanel, Dior, Lanvin and other luxurious labels.
TK Maxx
Anyone who loves a good bargain will want to stop in TK Maxx on Kensington High Street. The European version of the popular TJ Maxx in America, here you’ll find a much better selection of European brands as well as high fashion pieces in their Gold Label section.
Whole Foods
An import from America, the Whole Foods on Kensington High Street is the largest organic food shop in the city. Offering fresh produce, meat and lots of specialty ingredients, guests staying in our Kensington apartments can take care of any grocery needs here. On the top floor there is a large food court offering everything from sushi to BBQ - perfect for a quick meal and to rest your feet from shopping.
Slip off to Kensington Church Street and recharge with coffee at the lovely Patisserie Valerie or tiny La Caffetiera.
Owned and operated by Sir Richard Branson, lunch at Babylon Restaurant at Kensington Roof Gardens is a fabulous way to take a break from shopping. Enjoy rooftop views of West London as you dine in a lush garden full of flamingos! Advanced booking is recommended.
Visitors with an eye for antiques can head north on the District and Circle Line to Notting Hill Gate where the vintage shops and stalls of Portobello Road Market await. Or board the number 10 bus along Kensington High Street direct to the fabulous Oxford Street shopping strip.
Kensington Gardens
Just beyond Kensington High Street lies beautiful Kensington Gardens. The royal grounds are open to visitors to roam and enjoy. If you have young children, take them to the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, which features its very own pirate ship. Another highlight of the gardens is The Albert Memorial, built by Queen Victoria in 1872.
Kensington Palace
This fabulous royal residence was once home to Princess Diana and is now where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge call home. Parts of Kensington Palace and its gardens, which date back to the 17th century, are open to visitors. For an added treat, indulge in afternoon tea at Kensington Palace’s beautiful Orangery.
Museums of South Kensington
From the High Street Kensington station, take the District and Circle Line two stops down to South Kensington to explore a trio of fabulous world-class museums. The stunning Natural History Museum is worth a visit for its architecture alone. Next door, the Victoria & Albert Museum is dedicated to all things art and design and boasts a noteworthy museum shop. The Science Museum chronicles the greatest innovations by British scientists through a myriad of exhibits and artefacts. Admission to all three museums is free.
Guests staying in our Kensington vacation apartments can easily walk to shops and restaurants. Other guests can take the Tube to High Street Kensington station (District and Circle Line), which is located right in the heart of high street.
Sign up for our Vacation Perfect newsletter and real estate updates.