Kensington: a 1-2 day itinerary
Kensington, one of London’s most iconic neighborhoods, is where opulent history meets the thrill of modern urban life. With grand palaces, world-class museums, and hidden gems tucked around leafy corners, this neighborhood is a must-see for anyone who wants a taste of London’s old-world glamour spiced with a modern edge. Here’s your guide to making the most of a day (or two) in Kensington.
Start Your Morning at Kensington Palace
Let’s begin with Kensington’s crowning jewel: Kensington Palace. Home to royals since the 17th century, this beautiful palace has played host to generations of the British royal family, including Queen Victoria and, more recently, Prince William and Kate Middleton. Walking through the grand rooms and winding corridors, you’ll uncover royal secrets, from Queen Victoria’s private letters to exhibitions of Princess Diana’s dresses.
- Address: Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: £20 for adults, free for under 5s
Once you’re ready for fresh air, step outside into Kensington Gardens and stroll along the Round Pond. Keep an eye out for the Peter Pan statue, an enchanting tribute to J.M. Barrie’s famous character, who would surely be at home among the ducks and swans that glide across the water.
Museum Time: A Cultural Feast on Exhibition Road
Kensington is packed with some of London’s most famous museums, all conveniently close on Exhibition Road. First up is the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). With its towering marble columns and mind-boggling collection of over 2.3 million objects, it’s a treasure trove of art, fashion, and design. Highlights include the stunning jewelry gallery and an ever-changing array of fashion exhibits featuring everything from 18th-century gowns to couture creations by Alexander McQueen.
- Address: Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM
- Admission: Free (some exhibitions may have fees)
Right next door is the Natural History Museum, a Victorian masterpiece that’ll captivate your inner explorer. Its iconic grand entrance hall, known as the Hintze Hall, features a gigantic blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. Dinosaur lovers can geek out at the impressive fossil collection, and kids (or the young at heart) can step inside an earthquake simulator.
- Address: Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:50 PM
- Admission: Free (special exhibitions may have fees)
If science is your thing, the Science Museum is just a stone’s throw away and is filled with exhibits on everything from space travel to AI. Don’t miss the IMAX Theatre if you want a larger-than-life experience or the chance to fly in a virtual cockpit.
Lunch at The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
You’re bound to have worked up an appetite by now, and Kensington doesn’t disappoint when it comes to lunch spots. The Ivy Kensington Brasserie is a stylish stop with an all-day menu featuring classic British dishes with a contemporary twist. Try their famous shepherd’s pie or go light with a refreshing salad – all under chandeliers in a setting as grand as the neighborhood itself.
- Address: 96 Kensington High St, W8 4SG
- Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Shopping on Kensington High Street
A trip to Kensington isn’t complete without a stroll down Kensington High Street. This shopping paradise combines high-end boutiques, iconic British brands, and quirky independent stores. Pop into Liberty London for eclectic, one-of-a-kind gifts, or dive into Whole Foods Market for a snack to fuel the rest of your day. You’ll also find Waterstones here, a beloved London bookstore where you can lose yourself in stories both real and fictional.
Relax in Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden
Take a breather and escape the bustling streets with a visit to Holland Park, one of London’s most beautiful green spaces. The park is a blend of wild woodland and landscaped gardens, but the real highlight is the Kyoto Garden. This tranquil Japanese garden, complete with koi ponds, stone lanterns, and waterfalls, is an oasis of calm in the middle of the city.
- Address: Ilchester Pl, W8 6LU
- Hours: Open 24 hours
For something unique, check out the park’s opera performances during the summer, held in an outdoor theater that’s pure romance.
Evening at the Royal Albert Hall
As the sun sets, make your way to the Royal Albert Hall, an architectural gem and one of the world’s most prestigious concert venues. Originally opened by Queen Victoria, the hall has hosted everyone from The Beatles to Adele. Check the schedule beforehand—you might catch a classical concert, rock gig, or even a Cirque du Soleil performance. If there’s no show that suits, consider taking a backstage tour to uncover the building’s rich history and get a glimpse of the royal box.
- Address: Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP
- Hours: Varies by event, tours available daily
- Admission: Prices vary by event; tours from £14
Late Night at Kensington Roof Gardens
If you’re up for a nightcap with a view, Kensington has the perfect spot: Kensington Roof Gardens. Perched above the city, this stunning rooftop is famous for its gardens filled with flamingos, flowing fountains, and lush greenery. On a warm evening, enjoy cocktails with a view and revel in the ambiance. It’s the perfect way to end a day in Kensington, under the London stars.
- Address: 99 Kensington High St, W8 5SA
- Hours: Closed temporarily but may reopen (check online for updates)
Final Thoughts
Kensington is a slice of London that manages to mix the regal and the rocking with impressive flair. Whether you’re marveling at dinosaur skeletons, strolling through royal gardens, or watching a concert at Royal Albert Hall, there’s something here for everyone. So slip on your walking shoes, pack your camera, and get ready to explore one of London’s most elegant and exciting neighborhoods. Kensington awaits, ready to charm and surprise!
Tourist guide to Kensington. Things to do and see in Kensington London