Unusual Things Not to Miss When Visiting Kensington

You have visited so many museums you can barely remember what the first few were about; you have walked to and wandered through so many parks that your feet hurt; and you have accidentally fallen foul to some tourist traps and been sorely disappointed. Indeed, visiting Kensington, in London, can feel like an exhausting feat! If you don’t want to hide in your hotel but would also like a break from navigating the bustling crowds, there are some more unusual places you can visit for a change of scenery.

A Colourful Neighbourly Conflict

As you may have noticed, most houses you will see while visiting Kensington are a clean and neutral shade of white or have exposed-brick façades. In South Kensington, however, and for a limited time only, you can find an outrageous red and white striped house that really stands out from the crowd. The result of a disagreement between the owner and the local council over the building of a two-storey basement has led to the house’s façade being painted in outlandish candy stripes, despite complaints from neighbours and council alike. Its owner has already received instructions to return it back to its original white colour, so make sure you catch it before they comply!

A Local Café to Catch Your Breath

If shopping in London is one of the main reasons why you are visiting, Kensington High Street is the place to go. Conveniently located just off the high road, Café Phillies is the perfect place to get fuelled up before you venture out into a frenzy of shopping, or a quiet and welcoming refuge where you (and your numerous bags) can escape to at the end of a long day. From 8:00am, this quaint café serves breakfast that ranges from eggs benedict to bacon butties and variations of a full English breakfast. Its lunch options consist of modern European cuisine using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Moreover, its selection of assorted teas and scrumptious cakes will most definitely entice you to stay for just a little bit longer than you had planned.

The Park Where Sunrise Will Mesmerize You

If you are pondering over places to escape in order to avoid the crowds, Hyde Park might not be very high up on your list. But actually, it shouldn’t be so; you just need to adjust your schedule slightly.

This massive park in the heart of Kensington opens as early as 5:00am, making it an unexpected spot from where to watch the sun rise. The lake becomes a hypnotizing blend of yellows and oranges and the trees a beautiful dark silhouette. Sit on one of the benches by the lake or bring a blanket and lay on the grass for a spectacle you’re unlikely to forget.

The Perfect Ending to a Wonderful Holiday

Visiting Kensington has the ability to awaken all your senses - with its stunning green spaces, its sophisticated restaurants, and its captivating galleries. Although the time to say goodbye must come, this corner of central London will long stay in your memory.

Matthew Zelinski works for the London Regency Hotel, one of the top hotels in Kensington. If you’re visiting Kensington, this wonderful hotel embodies the true flavour of the area, with its traditional regency-style façade and superb facilities. Whether you're looking for accommodation in London for business or leisure, the Regency offers an effortlessly elegant experience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.