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Notting Hill became an iconic neighbourhood where Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant fell in love. But there’s more to the neighbourhood than this. It holds an incredible charm and vibrancy that makes it a must-see place to visit when you’re in London.
Just like most of London, Notting Hill boasts of an incredible mix of cultures. But you’ll also find eye-catching townhouses, modern cafes, vibrant markets and a historic carnival. This part of West London creates an atmosphere that brings together history and modern times.
In this article, you’ll discover what Notting Hill has to offer – the sights, shops, parks and dining experiences. You’ll get a glimpse of the iconic neighbourhood and the unique characteristics that make it a favourite spot for London locals and travellers.
The History of Notting Hill
The neighbourhood of Notting Hill used to be a wasteland but was turned into farmland during the latter half of the 19th century. Eventually, it transformed into a residential area thanks to the building of the Ladbroke and Norland estates during the 1840s.
In the decades that followed, Notting Hill became a popular dwelling place for professionals and the middle class. It was the Victorian boom that attracted Irish workers who also brought their families over. This was why most houses in the area became multi-occupied homes.
At this time, the growing population in Notting Hill led to its deterioration. It was soon called the “slum” as the packed homes started to fill with rubbish and rats. It’s even more surprising to know that this was only a couple of decades ago. Although it was a part of Chelsea and Kensington, it was always referred to as the “bad part” of West London.
As the influx of migrants turned Notting Hill into a densely populated space, inter-racial riots became prominent as competition for limited resources (e.g. housing, work, etc) created tension. It was soon called the Notting Hill riots of 1958 and it continued until 1959.
These events spurred the local government to do something about the slum area in Notting Hill. They started to invest in its transformation and what used to be frowned upon by the rich and famous is now considered one of the best places to visit in London. It even caught the attention of filmmakers and inspired the iconic rom-com movie of Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts.
Apart from the restored beauty, the Notting Hill Carnival also brought fame to the neighbourhood. It started in 1965 and gained international attention. It has since attracted millions of people each year. It’s considered one of the biggest street festivals in the world.
Outside this event, Notting Hill can be fairly quiet the rest of the year – except when the bustling Portobello Market opens. You’ll find many places to explore, eat and shop as you walk around the neighbourhood.
A Look at Notting Hill Today
Notting Hill has come a long way from being the “bad part” of West London. It’s a thriving community that takes pride in the beauty of pastel-coloured homes, vintage cinemas, high-end shops and esteemed art galleries.
The sense of community in Notting Hill has brought people from all walks of life to visit and take part in the festivities. Even celebrities like Robbie Williams and Stella McCartney have chosen Notting Hill as their home.
Take a look at what Notting Hill has to offer in terms of food, drinks, shopping and other cultural and recreational activities.
The Food: A Mosaic of Diverse Cuisines and Delightful Delicacies
The diverse population of Notting Hill brings an equally mixed culinary scene. You can choose among Italian, Spanish, Japanese and Modern European cuisine. There’s something to suit anyone’s palate, from cosy cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants. Among the options include Granger and Co., Chicken Shop, Gold, Core by Clare Smyth, Ottolenghi, Farmacy, The Ledbury and 7 Saints.
If you’re looking for a great venue to drink, the Duke of Wellington is a pub that you should visit. This charming pub was where Adele signed her very first recording contract and was also a part of the Notting Hill film. Other places to visit include The Cow (a saloon bar), Beach Blanket Babylon (a cocktail bar and more) and The Ladbroke Arms (a traditional pub).
Other options can be found every time the Portobello Market opens, so make sure you drop by for more local cuisines.
The Culture & Arts: A Haven for Artists, Writers and Film Enthusiasts
Notting Hill is a cultural haven where writers, filmmakers and artists can find various inspirations for their next work. There are a multitude of bookshops, independent theatres and art galleries that you can visit to enrich your cultural experience in London.
The Museum of Brands holds up to 200 years worth of branding history. It’s a great space to discover forgotten brans and the evolution of major ones still present today. The Graffic Gallery, on the other hand, shows street art exhibitions.
There’s also the Electric Cinema along Portobello Road. This cinema is considered a historic gem in Notting Hill. It offers an intimate cinematic experience – complete with a stylish bar. If you prefer the vintage cinematic vibe, go to The Gate instead. It features independent films and offers gourmet food and refreshments, too.
In case music is your thing, The Notting Hill Arts Club features music artists, one of whom may be the next big name in the industry.
The Shopping Experience: A Treasure Trove for Fashion and Antiques
Just like every area in London, Notting Hill offers a unique shopping experience for locals and visitors alike. The most common is the Portobello Road Market which happens every Saturday. Considered as the largest antique market in the UK, you can find various treasures like books, vintage records, fashion pieces, furniture and various collectables. This market also offers diverse food items that range from street food and fresh produce. It gives a vibrant experience that’ll showcase the rich culture of London.
Apart from that, Westbourne Grove is popular for selling fashion items. Here you’ll find designer shops and local independent stores.
Must-See Events and Activities: Vibrant Carnival, Leisure Centre and Parks
The Notting Hill Carnival is a popular event in this area. It’s held every August and shows a lively parade featuring more than 50,000 performers that includes live bands and entertainers. You’ll also enjoy pop-up stalls selling various cocktails and street food. It celebrates the Caribbean culture and has various activities for young and old folks.
There are also leisure centres to help you stay fit and strong. You have the Kensington Leisure Centre, Harbour Club, The Westway Sports and Fitness Centre, BodyWorksWest, Virgin Active Notting Hill, etc.
If you’re interested in the green spaces in Notting Hill, you can visit Holland Park (where the Kyoto Garden is). The Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park are also nearby, although they’re no longer within the Notting Hill area.
Where to Stay While in Notting Hill
With Notting Hill offering various places to visit, staying within the area would make all these within reach. Choosing a place to stay in this neighbourhood would make your itinerary easier to complete.
Fortunately, City Relay manages several properties in Notting Hill. Check out your options if you want to book accommodations in Notting Hill.
This one-bedroom unit is a cosy retreat right at the heart of Notting Hill. It’s near tube stations, famous dining spots and local attractions. It has a comfortable lounge area, functional kitchen and cosy bathroom.
Notting Hill Charm: Central 2-Bed Gem
This 2-bedroom apartment is the ideal base for exploring London. It’s a couple of minutes from the Notting Hill Gate station and offers enough space for 4 guests. This stylish home has a plush sofa, a dining area, a modern kitchen and various high-quality appliances.
Classic Victorian Flat with Terrace
This charming 2-bedroom flat is conveniently located on the first level. Its space is filled with greenery and comfortable furniture. It also has a fully equipped kitchen, a lovely balcony and a cosy sitting room. It’s the perfect spot to explore Notting Hill and the rest of London.
Do you want to see more properties in London? Check out City Relay’s property listing. We’ll help you book a perfect stay in London. Contact us and we’ll make it a hassle-free experience for you.
