Found within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Notting Hill is a tapestry of pastel‑stuccoed terraces, heritage and affluence. From its roots as a 19th-century Ladbroke Estate development, with garden squares and gracious crescents, it’s evolved into one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods that is beloved by locals and visitors to the capital.
Yet, beyond the candy‑coloured houses lie the soul of the area: the famous Portobello Road Market that murmurs with antique dealers, food stalls and glimpses of local life; the Notting Hill Carnival in August, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean‑influenced culture, and quainter touches like St John’s church hosting local Mayfests and classical recitals.
For well‑heeled travellers, the area is far removed from tourist trappings, with a wealth of art‑bookshops, independent cafés, inviting pubs and independent fashion stores, especially around Westbourne Grove and Clarendon Cross. It’s just under three and a half miles west‑southeast of Charing Cross, with excellent transport links via Notting Hill Gate Underground Circle, District and Central lines. Since the release of Notting Hill movie in 1999, the area has become an international draw, yet it has never lost its authenticity.
In this guide, we explore a handpicked selection of hotels, each with its own distinctive style, privacy and impeccable service.
The Portobello Hotel
One of London’s most well-known luxury boutique hotels, The Portobello is a bohemian boutique bolthole along Portobello Road, famed for its rock‑star bathtub stories, Johnny Depp’s champagne soak and Alice Cooper’s snake, but is grounded in tasteful Regency-style interiors and eccentric charm.
Founded in 1971, the hotel features around 20 individually themed rooms, aiming to fully embody the bohemian spirit of the Portobello Road Market and the eclectic soul of Notting Hill and London of the swinging 60s. The drawing room also houses the honesty bar, naturally featuring Portobello Road gin among a curated selection of other tipples that are perfect for a pre-dinner drink before heading into town or a nightcap before bed.
With views of Notting Hill’s iconic townhouses at the front and the serene Stanley Gardens to the rear, The Portobello Hotel offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle, yet remains just a short tube ride from London’s major attractions.
The Laslett
This boutique five‑townhouse retreat in Pembridge Gardens honours carnival founder Rhaune Laslett and the area’s cultural roots through contemporary British artwork, antiques and local books.
Spread across 5 Victorian mansions, the interiors are soothing and elegant, featuring soft greys, dark woods and in‑room record players. A driving force behind Notting Hill’s creative revival, The Laslett embraces a philosophy rooted in supporting British art and design, particularly works by artists with a personal or artistic connection to the neighbourhood. Each of the 51 rooms and suites features air conditioning, curated artwork and books, along with a ‘Big Bar’ filled with craft beers and locally sourced treats, whilst rain showers and full-sized Votary bathroom amenities complete the subway-tiled bathrooms. The in‑house Henderson Bar & Kitchen serves Mediterranean‑inspired sharing plates and bespoke cocktails, including the signature Henderson Rum Punch.
The Lost Poet
Found on Mr & Mrs Smith’s list, this hotel blends contemporary design with vintage touches: think curated typography, nostalgic art and cosy detail. Every room is designed around a dedicated colour palette, inspired by the vibrant colour and playful spirit of Portobello Road, with the interiors featuring modern art, bold wallpapers, bespoke furniture, antique curiosities and reclaimed wood panelling sourced from vintage school science labs.
Tucked away on the lower level, The Suite offers a spacious, light-filled retreat with a private patio, super king bed, and a characterful mix of earthy tones, brass fittings, and reclaimed wood detailing, that’s perfect for unwinding in understated comfort.
The Princess Royal
A beautifully refurbished Victorian pub turned four-room boutique inn, The Princess Royal features vibrant interiors, including a sunlit conservatory, private dining rooms, four boutique bedrooms and two beautifully landscaped terraces by Jinny Blom. Using the very best of British designers and manufacturers, these bedrooms have comfort at their heart with luxurious beds and the very best linen.
The ground floor centres around a striking horseshoe bar, complemented by leather stools and an extensive drinks list that includes a dedicated raw bar, while the dining room, conservatory and bar seating offer relaxed spaces to enjoy seasonal Mediterranean dishes throughout the day.
Ruby Zoe Hotel
For those seeking playful, art‑driven design and efficient service over traditional formalities, Ruby Zoe hits the mark. Inspired by the vibrant spirit of West Indian culture and Notting Hill’s carnival heritage, the hotel blends bold colours, rich textures and musical nods throughout. Rooms are chic, soundproofed with Marshall speakers, and tech‑driven check‑in.
At the heart of Ruby Zoe lies its lively bar, a stylish all-day space serving everything from barista-crafted coffee and light bites to expertly mixed signature cocktails. With live music and curated events on rotation, it’s an inviting spot to unwind at any hour. Just five minutes from Notting Hill Gate station, it’s perfectly placed for exploring London or simply soaking up the local parks, markets, and museums before retreating to the calm of its Lean Luxury rooms.
Notting Hill remains one of London’s most distinctive and desirable quarters, a neighbourhood where artistic flair and sophistication sit side by side. From the buzz of Portobello Market, the vibrancy of Carnival or the elegance of its garden squares and pastel terraces, the area has an enduring and magnetic appeal, with each hotel capturing a different flavour of the area.
