In our series of spotlighting some of the most popular neighbourhoods in London, within easy reach of Dolphin Square and Pimlico, we’re taking a look at one of London’s most prestigious areas with Royal Status; Kensington. Although it is the smallest borough in London and the second smallest district in England, this densely populated area has a lot going on.
Our guide aims to share why staying in serviced apartments near Kensington guarantees you access to one of London’s most affluent districts, packed with local perks that make sure your stay here in the capital is all the more convenient. Join us in getting to know Kensington on a more personal level. Let’s go exploring.
At a glance: Kensington
Kensington is located in the west of Central London, situated in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. As one of London’s wealthiest areas, it is home to some of the most exclusive and elegant properties on the market. A quiet neighbourhood, Kensington is a favourable place for families to stay.
Famous for Royal Parks and shopping, Kensington is often referred to as the Museum Quarter with its well-known museums in South Kensington, as well as other educational institutions. Anchored by Kensington High Street, one of the busiest shopping centres in the city, a rich mix of cultures meet through upmarket boutiques, food stalls, and whole markets selling all things unique and wonderfully bespoke.
Knightsbridge, Notting Hill, Earl's Court, Sloan Square and other areas of interest can be easily accessed from Kensington through various modes of transport including the London tube and buses.
Things to do around Kensington: What to see and do
Wade through corridors and endless galleries as you stumble on unexpected discoveries at the Victoria and Albert Museum. As the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance, enjoy an exciting and vibrant programme of events while examining the museum’s collections from ancient Chinese ceramics to Alexander McQueen’s evening dresses. With over 5000 years of human creativity to explore, the Victoria and Albert Museum offers a full day worth of activity.
Host of The Proms and the heart-warming magic of the Christmas season, the Royal Albert Hall regularly welcomes the world’s leading artists and many performance genres to its iconic concert hall. Celebrating its 150 years of the Royal Albert Hall, there’s never been a better time to enjoy celebrations, next generation-defining moments, and the once-in-a-lifetime live experiences. From major commissions to a series of showcases promoting upcoming talent, see what’s on at the Royal Albert Hall.
Hours can be well spent down on Kensington High Street which features a mixture of shops and restaurants. Coupled with its food markets, the High Street holds on to its upmarket vibe and bohemian style. Kensington High Street is conveniently located near Kensington Palace. When window shopping is done, a trip to this popular destination should be on the cards.
Kensington restaurants
Dishoom Kensington
For travellers with a love of Indian cuisine, Dishoom Kensington offers delicious, beautiful food that exceeds expectations. Regularly reviewed with 5*, tuck into breakfast, lunch or dinner as you take in the ambience of Dishoom’s art deco interior that remembers the golden age of Bombay jazz.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
There’s nothing quite like dining in exquisite surroundings. The Ivy Kensington Brasserie offers relaxed yet sophisticated all-day dining with the familiar luxury of The Ivy on West Street. Bask in the foliage and flowers on the garden terrace which serves as the perfect spot to soak up the sun in the summer months. Conveniently, a number of tables at The Ivy Kensington Brasserie remain unreserved, allowing more visitors to experience the magic of this must-visit establishment.
Grato
With a focus on regional cuisine and the freshest ingredients, Grato serves up an authentic Italian experience alongside decorated eating quarters. Private dining is available for business dinners, events or the perfect celebration.
Kensington pubs and bars
Dirty Bones
Signature cocktails go down a treat at Dirty Bones Kensington where the idea of an NYC-inspired food and cocktail concept came to life. Kick back and soak up the quality times as some of the best bartenders in town deliver creative beverages to enjoy; all complimented alongside old-school hip-hop, funk and soul classics.
Balans NO. 60
For a late night in Soho, Balans No.60 will keep you entertained right up until 5 AM. An icon of Old Compton Street, this cafe and bar have been welcoming familiar faces and thirsty passers-by for over three decades and counting. From the classics of an Old Fashioned to the spicier tastes of a Strawberry Refresher, a pitstop here will only enhance your day.
The Churchill Arms
True British eccentricity doesn’t get any better than this. Built back in 1750, The Churchill Arms has many claims to fame. For instance, Winston Churchill’s grandparents were regular visitors here in the 1800s. Inside you will find mountains of Churchill memorabilia that makes this one of London’s most famous watering holes.
Kensington parks and green spaces
Kensington Gardens
Shared with the City of Westminster, Kensington Gardens sits to the west of Hyde Park covering 265 acres of land. The park is open daily to members of the public to wander around its well-kept scenery. Within this leafy area of Central London, there is plenty to keep you busy on your stroll. For example, check out The Albert Memorial, one of London’s most ornate monuments. Visit the Serpentine Galleries, or take two at the Italian Gardens Cafe.
- A tip for gardeners: At the park’s very own allotment, you can pick up tips for growing fruit and vegetables.
Holland Park
Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing cycle, a round of golf, or perhaps just find a perfect spot to meditate and enjoy the open space, Holland Park in London offers it all. This culturally rich tourist attraction is home to some of the most incredible green spaces Central London has to offer and provides a sanctuary to retreat to after a busy work week. We highly recommend checking out the Kyoto Garden at Holland Park, an awe-inspiring Japanese Garden.
Kensington office space
Despite being well-known for its famous museums, Royal Parks and fabulous shops, Kensington has a variety of coworking and shared office spaces. When business calls, renting an office for a few hours, or the whole day, is made possible with these coworking hotspots:
Transport in Kensington
Travel by London Underground
Kensington is served by the Circle Line. London Underground stations are located in Travelcard Zone 1. These include:
- High Street Kensington
- South Kensington
- West Kensington
- Kensington (Olympia)
- Earl’s Court
- Gloucester Road
Travel by Bus
A number of buses operate through Kensington, with access to nearby neighbourhoods including Knightsbridge, Notting Hill, Earl's Court, Sloan Square, and Pimlico. London bus routes include:
- 9: Service between Hammersmith bus station and Aldwych
- 23: Service between Westbourne Park station and Hammersmith
- 27: Service between Hammersmith Grove and Chalk Farm
- 28: Service between Southside Wandsworth and Kensal Rise station
- 49: Service between Clapham Junction station and White City bus station
- 50: Service between Croydon town centre and Stockwell
- 72: Service between East Acton and Roehampton Vale
- 328: Service between Chelsea World’s End and Golders Green Station
- 452: Service between Kensal Rise and Vauxhall bus station
- C1: Service between Victoria and White City
Visit Transport for London to get full travel times and schedules.
How to get from Kensington to Pimlico
It takes about twenty minutes to get from Kensington to Pimlico. Jump on the bus at Kensington Palace (Stop M) to Victoria Bus Station. Pimlico is a 9-minute walk from there, and a further two minutes to reach Dolphin Square.
Dolphin Square Serviced Apartments near Kensington
If you’re coming to London for an extended business stay for more than 3 months then you are, of course, going to need somewhere to live. Dolphin Square has an excellent choice of rooms available, so whatever your needs you can find something suitable, including studio apartments, popular one-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom apartments.
We’ve made sure that guests have everything they need to enjoy a comfortable stay. There are spectacular guest amenities including a fitness centre, swimming pool, Moroccan Spa, shopping arcade and beautifully manicured gardens. There are also excellent Events and Meeting Rooms available to hire for functions of all shapes and sizes.
And, if your time in London gets extended, know that you can extend your stay with us. No need to scramble to find a new apartment, no need to re-settle and find new routes to the office. Simply let us know, and you can stay on as long as you like (or need) without compromising on quality.
Book your stay with us on your next trip to Kensington
Next time you’re travelling for business, give yourself the space to work productively and a place to unwind with a Dolphin Square Serviced Apartment. Alongside an impeccable list of amenities, know that you’re within a short distance of enjoying the perks that come with staying in Central London.
Book a viewing at Dolphin Square today to enjoy the luxury, privacy and great value of a short term serviced apartment. Get in touch with our accommodation experts today, and don’t forget to visit our short lets page and rental listings to find out all the details.
