South Kensington epitomises London as a cultural capital. It is home to much of the isles’ cultural wealth. Brimming with museums and heritage sites, the district is a rich tapestry of historic narratives, civilisational milestones, and timeless beauty. A significant custodian of culture in Europe, South Kensington is an unmissable destination in London. Read on to unveil the highlights of this locale.
1. Natural History Museum
A chronicle of life on earth, the Natural History Museum is a research centre for taxonomy, the identification on conservation of flora and fauna specimens. A stupendous Gothic-Revival structure, it is also known as the “cathedral to nature”. Home to 80 million species, the museum has the following categories: botany, entomology, mineralogy, palaeontology, and zoology.
The museum is a 143-year-old institution and has witnessed many changes in the realm of life sciences. For instance, it houses specimens collected by Charles Darwin and David Attenborough. It is also famous for its dinosaur exhibitions, immersive experiences, and manuscripts. A short tour of this museum will acquaint you with the bona-fide T-Rex, will have you experience an earthquake in the Earth Galleries, and take you on a journey through the evolution of planet Earth.
2. Royal Albert Hall
A magnificent red-brick building with an ornate glass dome, the Royal Albert Hall is the landmark of London’s performance arts. It is a highly esteemed concert hall graced by countless reputed artists, from Shirley Bassey to Adele. Built in 1871, the Hall has been the headquarters for significant historical events, such as meetings by suffragettes and speeches by Albert Einstein. It still hosts major events such as the Opera and ballet. Known as the “Nation’s Village Hall”, a concert in Royal Albert Hall is a heartening experience. With celebrities frequenting the hall, you may also find yourself starstruck while peeking behind the curtains of the magical stage.
3. Science Museum
The Science Museum is one of London’s most amusing attractions, for adults and children alike. It houses iconic scientific material and incredible simulations of the wonders of science. One can peruse object galleries documenting the transitioning energy systems, play all the video games that have been in existence for the past 50 years, and embark on a sojourn through the universe’s galaxies. A detailed chronicle of the universe, a tour of the Science Museum spotlights how infinitesimal human beings are – a truly humbling experience!
4. Kensington Palace and Gardens
The Kensington Palace, set in the heart of Kensington Gardens, is the official Royal residence. The palace is home to the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke and Duchess of Kent, and the Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. Historically significant wings of the palace are open to the public. An archetypal Jacobean building, the palace has grown tremendously, with monarchs undertaking building ventures over centuries. The palace is as fantastical as it can be with stately ballrooms, a gallery, grand stairways, and an orangery.
With “modern royals” occupying the residence since the 1960s, more contemporary elements have been subtly weaved into the building. However, its mediaeval majesty has been preserved. Kensington Gardens is one of London’s many public parks. It is the epitome of horticultural grandeur with a large pond, Victorian floral walks, and an open woodland which is a habitat for Britain’s wildlife. It is filled with meadows, cherry trees, and magnolias. The gardens and palace are reminiscent of Britain’s imperial glory. The sheer splendour and historicity of the site are unmatched.
6. Fait Maison Salon de Thé
A short stroll from Kensington Gardens will lead you to a charming cafe, distinct in its flamboyant pastels. A labour of love by food enthusiasts Mohamed Osman and Mohamed El Banna, and renowned Chef Om Waleed, Fait Maison Salon de Thé is a luxury restaurant with an eclectic menu. Their food has various global influences, mainly European and Middle Eastern. It was initially established as a local French cafe. It soon became an institution in Kensington. A decade later, Chef Waleed stepped in, bringing in a burst of Mediterranean flavour and an astonishing eye for style.
Fait Maison achieved a merry harmony between delicate pastries and fiery Middle Eastern comfort meals. Their afternoon tea is particularly glamorous, as Waleed’s pastries are nothing short of elegant engineering marvels. The decor is a burst of pastel shades and bold flowers, which pair beautifully with their picture-perfect plates. Step in for high tea and a seasonal cupcake. If you have an appetite, dig into their Chicken Biryani or Braised Lamb Shank.
6. Brompton Oratory Catholic Church
A late Victorian neo-classical building, the Brompton Oratory Catholic Church mainly draws in architecture enthusiasts. It was completed in 1884 by Herbert Gribble, who started the construction as part of a building competition. It was built with intricately sculptured Portland stone, concrete, and Italian marble. Nearly a century later, ornate mosaic and woodwork were added to the structure. The interiors are handsomely detailed, and rich yet understated. The Catholic church is run by Oratorians and is known for its brilliant Liturgical music.
7. Kensington High Street
Kensington High Street is the main shopping centre of the district. From designer clothing stores to food markets, it is the ideal stop for extravagant retail therapy. The highlights of the High Street include Harrods, London’s landmark gift store; Waterstones, a literary getaway for bookworms; Cass Art, a haven for craft aficionados; and Whole Foods Market, London’s hub of fresh produce, global cuisine, organic groceries, and tasting events.
The High Street also has a hidden gem for cartoon buffs, which is the Linley Sambourne House, residence of cartoonist Edward Linley Sambourne in the 1870s. His satirical caricatures for Punch magazine earned him the title of “The First Cartoonist”. The house still has most of its original decor and furniture.
8. The Anglesea Arms
The Anglesea Arms is a pub dating back to 1712. It is on the same street as the home of prolific writer Charles Dickens. Its old-world appeal and association with Dickens draws visitors from around the globe. A traditional English pub, it serves generous pints and elevated British classics such as cod and chips. It has preserved much of its decor from its prime, evoking an atmosphere of Britain’s colonial heydays.
South Kensington is the soul of London. It has arguably earned the city its repute of being a cultural haven. An undeniable tourist essential, one hasn’t seen the best of London without visiting South Kensington.
