As one of the most sought-after and affluent areas in London, it is of little surprise that this corner of the capital has a bar scene that is up there with the best around.
From well-heeled wine and cocktail bars, to cool indie craft-ale houses and sublime rooftop lounges, not forgetting the all-important classic London pub, Kensington is awash with places to enjoy your favourite tipple.
The Troubadour
One doesn’t need to be a music aficionado to have a passing awareness of this legendary bar-cum-venue. Steeped in musical history, the Troubadour has played host to some of the world’s greatest musicians, from Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan to Sammy Davis Jnr and iconic rockers Led Zeppelin.
Its reputation extends beyond music royalty however and is an excellent spot to start or finish your night. The drinks menu is relatively small, but perfectly formed, with a tantalising cocktail range, solid wine selection and some great beers, lagers and craft ales. If you’re after more than a drink, then the food is excellent, whether it’s those perfect pint bedfellows such as pie and mash or their famous brisket burger, or more finely curated dishes to accompany a glass of wine. In keeping with its musical heritage, there is an eclectic array of artists performing regularly as well as its ever-popular live jazz nights every Sunday.
In the warmer months, the Troubadour’s Secret Garden brings another dimension to this must-visit venue and if it were needed, provides another excuse to enjoy all that the bar has to offer.
The K Bar
This classy bar is part of The Kensington Hotel, located within a row of historic townhouses dating back to the 1770s and is a popular place for those seeking top-notch drinks with unrivalled service.
One doesn’t need to be here long to understand that quality matters at the ‘K’. Whether it’s the attentive table service, oak panelled walls, opulent sofas and an eye for detail in every glass that is served, you know that high standards lead here.
The full drinks range is excellent, but it is when the cocktail maker enters that the bar really comes into its own, with some expert alchemy on display. The 'deluxe' menu's Sazerac arrives with some repute and the reality doesn’t let it down, with connoisseurs of the Louisiana favourite unlikely to find a better one across the capital.
With a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere and steady buzz from early evening until the last drink is served, The K seems to have the perfect balance of ingredients for a truly great bar, proving it’s not just the cocktails they can expertly mix.
Piano Kensington
For jazz lovers seeking a relaxed and elegant setting, Piano Kensington, situated conveniently on Kensington High Street, offers an intimate experience, absorbed in the hypnotic grooves and ambience. Located in the Royal Garden Hotel, this bar features live piano music five nights a week, plus special ‘Jazz Sundays’ where entry is free, creating a sophisticated backdrop for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails or well-sourced wine and some perfectly selected snacks or larger dishes to accompany them.
The comfortable atmosphere encourages guests to unwind and if the mood takes you, sing along and dance (or tap feet for the more introverted).
Kensington Roof Gardens
Things don’t get much more glamorous than the capital’s very first rooftop bar and club where opulence and lush greenery intertwine at one of London’s most famous skyline venues.
Kensington Roof Gardens is where you come for a night to remember and be prepared to dress to impress in this prestigious destination. The views are simply stunning from the top and the music so immersive you could find yourself dancing without knowing it.
There are three impeccably curated sections to the venue, each with its own garden theme, giving you the choice between Tudor Garden, English Woodland and Spanish Garden themes while you enjoy the beats off the dance floor and sample something splendid to drink.
Whilst The Beatles may have got the rooftop ball rock and rolling in London in 1969, Kensington Roof Gardens has added glamour and grooves to the capital’s sky-high scene and is without doubt, a cut above the rest.
The Builders Arms
Whilst Kensington is spoiled for choice when it comes to glamorous, inventive and prestigious bars, there are occasions when the moment is just right for a traditional London pub and The Builder’s Arms, just a short stroll from Kensington High Street, is possibly the best of the lot.
This charming and historic pub effortlessly blends well-honed British pub culture with a touch of urban sophistication. Dating back to the 1800s, it has been thoughtfully restored to retain its original Georgian features, with a striking pistachio green-painted façade and inside, wood panelling, an open fire, and homely seating, creating a warm atmosphere. On sunny days, the terrace at the front of the pub is a great place to while away a couple of hours whilst the rest of Kensington buzzes about.
If you’re feeling a little peckish, the menu features a variety of classic pub dishes, including fish and chips, hearty pies as well as their famous roasts every Sunday.
Kensington's bar scene is as diverse as it is refined, offering something for every taste and occasion. From the opulence of K Bar to the iconic Troubadour, each venue offers something a little different, with a refined buzz that comes with being in one of London’s most prestigious addresses. Whether you're planning a special night out, exploring the area or simply looking for an afternoon drink with a friend, there is a perfect place to raise a glass in one of Kensington’s many enviable establishments.
