Kensington

Kensington is a prosperous part of London, known for its stylish terraced housing and the European landscape allotments that make up the vast Kensington Gardens. The district is also full of upmarket shopping options, swanky hotels and museums. Spend time in the galleries and music halls in this hub of refinement.

Stroll down the busy Kensington High Street to see the range of shops defining this area of luxury and aristocracy. Enter the Kensington Arcade through its stucco arches and window-shop along the elegant storefronts. Lay down a blanket in Kensington Gardens with a scenic backdrop of its lake and the majestic Kensington Palace.

Visit the iconic Thackeray Gallery for its array of works by living British artists. It is an active trading site that works with set prices. Browse the pieces displayed at The Mosaic Rooms, which has a focus on contemporary exhibits from the Arab world.

Another fascinating cultural institution of Kensington is the RCM Museum of Musical Instruments. Browse the intriguing collection of about 1,000 instruments from the 15th century through the mid 1900s. These include a 16th-century guitar, a 15th-century keyboard and a 16th-century harpsichord.

Head south to the Finborough Theatre, for its range of plays and musical performances. Admire the intriguing appearance of the theater’s building, which sits on a traffic island. The green lower part of the three-story redbrick building makes it stand out.

Walk south for 30 minutes from the center of Kensington to reach the Brompton Cemetery. Explore this picturesque and serene site, flanked by trees, family mausoleums and historic monuments.

Kensington is located in the Royal Borough of Chelsea and Kensington in the western part of London. Take the London Underground to one of the stops here, such as South Kensington, Gloucester Road and Kensington (Olympia). Get around by bus and explore the high street on foot. Nearby districts include Shepherd’s Bush and Hammersmith.