Things to Do in South Kensington

South Kensington epitomises London as a cultural capital. Home to much of Britain’s cultural wealth, it is brimming with museums and heritage sites, and the district stands as a rich blend of historic narratives, civilisational milestones, and timeless beauty. Its status as a significant custodian of culture in Europe marks South Kensington out as an unmissable destination in London. Read on to unveil the highlights of this charming locale.

1. Natural History Museum

A chronicle of life on earth, the Natural History Museum is a research centre for taxonomy; a facility that stands for the identification and conservation of the world’s flora and fauna. A highly impressive Gothic-Revival structure, it is also known as the “cathedral to nature” and is home to around 80 million species. The museum boasts sample species across botany, entomology, mineralogy, palaeontology, and zoology, highlighting it as one of the most important scientific centres of its kind.

More than 140 years old, the institution has witnessed many changes in the realm of life sciences, housing specimens collected by titans of the field such as Charles Darwin and David Attenborough. It is also famous for its dinosaur exhibitions, immersive experiences, and manuscripts. A short tour of this awe-inspiring museum will present the iconic T-Rex, have you experience an earthquake in the Earth Galleries, and take you on a journey through the evolution of planet Earth.

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2. Royal Albert Hall

A magnificent red-brick building with an ornate glass dome, the Royal Albert Hall is the zenith of London’s performance arts scene. The venue is a highly esteemed concert hall and over the course of its long history has been graced by countless reputed artists, from Shirley Bassey to Adele. A significant part of the fabric of Kensington, the hall has been the headquarters of important historical events, such as meetings of the suffragettes and speeches by Albert Einstein. It still hosts major events such as opera and ballet performances by renowned artists. Known as the “Nation’s Village Hall”, a concert in the Royal Albert Hall is a unique experience. An esteemed venue in every sense of the word, you are highly likely to bump into a guest of note on a night out in this renowned location.

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3. Science Museum

The Science Museum is one of London’s most entertaining attractions, for adults and children alike. It houses essential scientific material and incredible simulations. One can peruse object galleries documenting the transitioning energy systems, play any video game that has been in existence over the past 50 years, and embark on a journey 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!

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4. Kensington Palace and Gardens

Kensington Palace, set in the heart of Kensington Gardens, is an official Royal residence which has served the family since the 1700s. Historically significant, the palace has been 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 over the course of its existence, with some wings open to the public. An archetypal Jacobean building, the residence has grown tremendously since its beginnings, with various monarchs undertaking extensive building ventures and improvements over the centuries. Incredibly stately, the palace offers vast ballrooms, a gallery, grand stairways, and a charming orangery.

With “modern royals” occupying the residence since the 1960s, more contemporary elements have been subtly weaved into the building. However, its medieval majesty has also been preserved. Kensington Gardens is one of London’s many public parks and stands as the epitome of horticultural grandeur, with a large pond, Victorian floral walks, and an open woodland home to Britain’s wildlife. Filled with meadows, cherry trees, and magnolias, the gardens and palace are reminiscent of Britain’s imperial glory, while the sheer splendour and authenticity 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 from food enthusiasts Mohamed Osman and Mohamed El Banna, as well as 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, and while it was initially established as a local French cafe, the popular eatery soon became an institution in Kensington. In 2015, Chef Waleed stepped in, bringing in a burst of Mediterranean flavour and her astonishing eye for style.

Fait Maison achieves 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 culinary 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, and if you happen to have an appetite, feel free to try their Chicken Biryani or Braised Lamb Shank.

6. Brompton Oratory Catholic Church

A late Victorian neo-classical building, the Brompton Oratory Catholic Church draws in architecture enthusiasts from near and far. It was completed in 1884 by Herbert Gribble, who started the construction as part of a building competition. Constructed with intricately sculptured Portland stone, concrete, and Italian marble, the building is still, nearly a century later, admired for its ornate mosaic and woodwork, as well as its handsomely detailed interiors. This Catholic church is run by Oratorians and is known for its remarkable Liturgical music.

7. Kensington High Street

Kensington High Street represents the main shopping area 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: the Linley Sambourne House, the 1870s residence of cartoonist Edward Linley Sambourne – which surprisingly still features most of its original decor and furniture. Linley is widely regarded as “the first cartoonist” thanks to his satirical drawings for Punch magazine.

8. The Anglesea Arms

The Anglesea Arms is a traditional English pub dating back to 1712. Sharing its location on the same street as where iconic writer Charles Dickens once lived, the pub’s old-world appeal and association with the Great Expectations writer draw visitors from around the globe. A throwback to a bygone era, it serves generous pints and elevated British classics such as cod and chips and other hearty British fare. The establishment has also preserved much of its charming decor from its prime, evoking an atmosphere of Britain’s colonial heyday.

South Kensington can, for these reasons, be considered the soul of London and a major contributor to its reputation as a cultural haven. For many people looking for property for sale in Kensington, the area represents the crème de la crème. An area replete with amenities, people looking for flats or houses for sale in Kensington will not be left disappointed.

The neighbourhood also stands as an undeniable tourist essential – with a strong rental market – so it could be said that one hasn’t seen the best of London before visiting South Kensington.

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