London is absolutely one of the most treasured cities in the world to me. I lived here for a few months during college and still visit here at least twice a year; I’m always surprised at the endless adventuring opportunities — it seems every corner, alley and cobblestone path has inspired one literary masterpiece or another. Since this is one of the cities I navigate with the most ease and am charmed enough to keep returning, I’m going to be exploring each of London’s neighborhoods over the next few visits. I’ll be incorporating neighborhood guides into the globe’s most livable and gorgeous cities — so even locals can find inspiration on The Western Charm.
The first on the list is the ever-so-charming Notting Hill movie, the land of Gwyneth Paltrow and Hugh Grants. A mosaic of structured ivoy architecture, Notting Hill is certainly one of the most posh areas of the city (millions per square footage). Still, it holds that homey neighborhood charm. Surrounded by dozens of cozy cafes, “it” restaurants, charming shops and of course the world famous Portobello Market, Notting Hill is the perfect sunny afternoon stroll when visiting London town.
Personal Update: I traveled for 30+ hours yesterday (four planes, four countries) and keeping looking over my shoulder to see when jetlag will catch me, but so far I’m fine and hope this piece is totally free of typos. I’m also super proud I got through this intro without mentioning Kate Middleton.
What to Do in Notting Hill
Get Lost in the Notting Hill Bookshop (Yes, that one from the movie)
Among cities, books and my laptop, there is one other special location I always get lost in: book stores. This one is particularly special because of which one it is — that one from the Notting Hill movie (absolutely one of my favorites). So yes, I went in to this charming gem, bought a travel guide to India of all things and absorbed the chemistry aura of Julia Roberts of Hugh Grant. It was on my London bucket list and I’m thrilled I finally did it.
Take a Walk and Admire the Architecture
If you happen to be visiting London during good weather (springtime is everything), a stroll through the winding streets of Notting Hill does not disappoint. The iconic architecture is undeniable posh London and I’m obsessed with the tiny columned entrances with black-and-white checkered marble#DesignGoals
Portobello Market
No Notting Hill guide is complete without mentioning the iconic Portobello Market. From antiques and vintage clothes to trendy food trucks and one-of-a-kind decor goods, this market is the go-to stop for everything London style. My biggest advice is to come early, bring comfortable walking shoes and don’t eat breakfast — the food is spectacular and usually served in tiny portions, so there’s plenty of opportunity for SWSR (sampling, walking, shopping and repeat). The market is open daily but the best day to go is Saturday when all the vendors are out.
See a Movie at the Iconic Electric Cinema
My readers know by now that I’m a bit a movie (and popcorn) buff. This cinema is one of the most darling I’ve stumbled upon and is worth the visit. Constructed in 1910, The Electric is one of the oldest working cinemas in England and survived two world wars despite the area being regularly attacked with bombs, especially in World War I. The interior is maddingly adorable featuring plush couches and a theatre style which still has the same historic vibe as the 1930s.
Notting Hill Carnival
If you’re in London during August, visiting the Notting Hill Carnival is a must for every visitor. As one of the biggest street parties in London (and if you’ve ever been to a street party in London you’ll know the smallest are crazier than any college party you ever had), the Notting Hill Carnival is a parade of London’s finest and roudiest flair and insanely delicious fooooooood.
Where to Eat in Notting Hill
Notting Hill has endless dining options for every appetite and I find the neighborhood is always the latest in culinary trends. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants in Notting Hill:
Farm Girl / 59A Portobello Rd – I love this darling organic and oh-so-healthy café nestled in one of the coziet nooks of Notting Hill. The Acai Bowl with a side of almond butter is my go-to breakfast when in London. The hearty buckwheat berry pancakes are perfect for some brunch-time mastication (or any time, really).
Arancina / 19 Pembridge Rd – I need a pizza fix wherever I am in the world and memories of this traditional Sicilian style pizzeria leave me daydreaming about it when I’m on the other side of the planet.
Rum Kitchen / 6-8 All Saints Rd – One of the best parts of the London food scene is just HOW international it is — you can find every cuisine here cooked to perfection. I was thrilled when I stumbled upon this Caribbean eatery. Think endless amounts of sweet potatoes and the best darn jerk chicken you ever had. Oh, and you bet they have beach-worthy cocktails.
Where to Get Coffee in Notting Hill
London is the best for unique coffee shops which cater to every caffeine taste bud! I’m on a short vegan stint as I detox from USA food and each cozy café have a fine and scrumptious creations based on almond milk (and all other milks for that matter).
Gail’s Artisan Bakery / 138 Portobello Rd – Love this place and they serve the best of both worlds: a perfect cup of coffee AND insanely delicious cinnamon rolls. It’s a win-win morning situation.
BRT Vinyl Cafe / 274 Portobello Rd – I mean, best almond milk latte I’ve ever had.
Books for Cooks / 4 Blenheim Crescent – Cookbooks and coffee surprisingly make an adorable combination. The ambiance of this place combined with the #1 best coffee shop smell ever make it worth visiting. Fourty-two times.
