Top reasons to explore South Kensington
London has many famous neighbourhoods known for their genteel charm and elegance. South Kensington is one such area that is a must-visit section of the city, when on holiday in London. It is among the more affluent sections of the capital and oozes sophistication and elegance on every street and alley.
Located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea it is home to upscale boutiques, mansions, trendy restaurants and iconic museums. Some of the wealthiest folks or the crème de la crème of British society calls this area home, making it one of the most sought-after postal codes.
If you are looking for budget accommodation in London it probably is least expected to be found here. However contrary to the notion, there is the boutique Lancaster Gate Hotel that offers wallet-friendly accommodation for travellers to the city.
Before setting off on a tour of the area enjoy a delicious brunch at London’s famous restaurants in Lancaster that is sure to leave you sustained for the better part of the day.
South Kensington is a cultural epicentre in its own right. This is due to the fact that three of the most famous museums are found in the area known as Exhibition Road. The V&A Museum opened in 1857 and is the leading arts and design museum of its kind in the world. Its collection of more than 4.5 million spans three thousand years. Another museum in the area also established in the same year (1857) is the Science Museum that has more than 300,000 items as part of its collection. One of the most visited sections at the Science Museum is the popular Children’s Gallery. The third museum that forms the troika of cultural venues in Kensington is the Natural History Museum. Established in 1880 its exterior facade is as impressive as the grand interior that features in excess of 80 million specimens of extinct and existing creatures.
When it comes to fine dining South Kensington is replete with high-end venues. For the best of contemporary European culinary fare paired with the finest wines, there is Margaux at Old Brompton Road. For Italian food lovers, there is the predominantly Italian styled menu at Daphne’s, which is as good as dining back home in Italy. Those with a taste for South Asian cuisines will enjoy tantalising their palate at Patara on Fulham Road that serves the best of Thai dishes. There are plenty of Michelin starred eateries in the area also, for those looking for something more refined and higher end. South Kensington is a melting pot when it comes to culinary offerings ranging from all corners of the planet.
On a cultural note, the neighbourhood is a favourite with French ex-pats that live and congregate in the area. A tour of South Kensington is akin to roaming any of Paris’ arrondissements with a Gallic look and feel to the palace. It is not surprising to hear people speak French at restaurants and cafes in South Kensington. Bute Street is perhaps the hub of all things Francais in the city, as it is home to the French Institute and the French Consulate. Other Gallic links include a French bookstore a variety of patisseries bistros and cafes that are popular with Francophiles from all over the city.
