Real Guides: London, UK (Part 3)
Part 3 of the London guide series: Notting Hill.
We’re baaaaack (after an extended holiday hiatus). Things got hectic and there was little time to sit down and write, but I am really excited to share Part 3 of my London Guide series. After spending Christmas in London it only feels right to share another guide, this time with a focus on Notting Hill. If you haven’t seen Part 1 and 2, check them out now.
After many months away, I have come to realize that sometimes it takes distance to help you see a place better. London is definitely one of those places that is impossible to truly see without knowing someone on the inside. The Brits are famously reserved and love their privacy. You can really sense that even when taking a simple walk down the streets of West London. There is so much beauty in this city, clearly visible from the uniform and perfectly manicured facades of the buildings… but it’s what lays behind them that makes London special.
I hope this guide series acts as your friend on the inside and helps you to really get behind the curtain. Whilst reserved on the surface in comparison to other cities of similar scale (i.e. New York), West London is actually an extremely eccentric and vibrant place.
Notting Hill
To shop:
Most people have heard of Portobello Road Market when planning their trip to London. It is definitely worth a visit, specifically the area of the market located under the Westway. However, just off Portobello is another area called Westbourne Grove which I majorly prefer to its more famous neighbour. This is one of my favourite areas of London. It has great shops and cafes. I am a longtime lover of secondhand, and the charity shops in this area are great. Finally, once you hit the end of Portobello, there is a Golborne Road, another less publicised gem.
Charity shops - Mary’s Living & Giving Shop, Oxfam, Royal Trinity Hospice & British Red Cross
Vintage shops - Found & Vision, 282 Portbello (incredible jacket selection, the place to get a vintage Barbour), Rellik (supposedly Kate Moss is a fan), Phoenix On Golborne
More shops to explore - Aimé, Jess Collett Milliner, Maya Magal, Rove, the store, Books for Cooks, Penelope Chilvers, The L&R Bookshop
To eat:
Once you’re done exploring the parks and shops you’ll need to eat. Here is a list of some of my favourite spots in the area:
Cafes & bakeries
Layla Bakery - great pastries and even better bread
Panella - a Sicilian cafe that sits beneath the iconic Trellick Tower (Brutalist style former public housing estate by architect Ernő Goldfinger)
Ottolenghi - one of London’s best cafes. Grab a box of salad, a pastry and a coffee and walk over to a nearby bench or Holland Park for a perfect lunch. There are many locations now but this was the original.
Sally Clarke - a great cafe with ready made meals and excellent bread. This is an extension of her restaurant which will feature in a later guide.
Restaurants
Gold - Med food with a buzz on Portobello, a great place to start a night.
Granger & Co - there are a few locations of this Australian restaurant but this is the one to visit. Best for brunch.
Daylesford - this is a great farm to table spot with a nice little shop. If you have time drive out to the countryside and visit the actual farm.
Taqueria - London isn’t known for its Mexican food but every time I had a craving this is where I would go. It is a fun place to start a night out.
Sumi - for sushi in Notting Hill.
STAKER’S - a viral spot with a young British chef.
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant - if you want to eat within one of the classic arcades, this is where you should do it.
Sally Clarke - Now several locations. Check out Clarke’s Restaurant for dinner. A must visit. The shop across the way is great for lunch or buying a loaf of bread. The cafe is the newest addition, also worth a punt.
Honourable mention: Ida - this is technically in Queens Park but if you’re in Notting Hill that is only a short drive away. Very cute spot with great Italian food.
To drink:
Whilst East & South London seem like the more obvious choices for nightlife, I actually really enjoy getting a drink in West. Notting Hill has plenty of buzz in the evening if you know where to go.
The Windsor Castle - a classic pub with a great garden. Popular with locals.
The Churchill Arms - a very famous pub that can get packed due to its wild aesthetic. Fun Thai restaurant hidden in the back. I’d advise eating there on a random evening when it is likely to be quieter. Particularly pretty when the Christmas lights decorate the facade in the winter or when the flowers bloom in the spring. I tend to avoid this place nowadays but its worth gawking at if you’re nearby.
The Pelican - a scene on the weekend, it gets so busy the people spill on to the street. The food is also good but be sure to book.
The Globe - this bar has been going strong for many years. It is a great spot if you want a club without all the effort, arrive later in the night.
The Little Yellow Door - this feels like someone’s home and features good live music.
Trailer Happiness - a bar with a tropical vibe.
Osteria Basilico - a local Italian spot that has been around for years. Great for nicer dinner or even a simple pizza.
Portobello Star - a fun, easy bar on Portobello if you want a cocktail but don’t feel like going to a classic pub.
If you’re visiting in August be sure to check out Notting Hill Carnival. Notting Hill has a vibrant African-Caribbean community and the annual festival completely takes over the neighbourhood. There is live music and incredible food. Warning to come prepared, as the area can become super chaotic and overcrowded.
After you’re done with all of that decompress in one of the area’s green spaces (Hyde Park and Holland Park). I particularly like the small wooded area hidden away on the north side of Holland Park.
Ok, that is all for now! The next part of this guide series will explore the rest of West London and possibly even take us up to North West London. Thanks for reading and if you’re headed to London soon, I hope this helps you have the best experience possible.
