Notting Hill is one of the most iconic and picturesque neighbourhoods in London, known for its pastel-coloured houses, romantic streets, celebrity homes, boutique shopping, and the world-famous Portobello Road Market.
What makes it so special is that it still feels like a real neighborhood despite its global fame. One moment you’re walking past elegant pastel townhouses, and the next you’re discovering tiny bookstores, flower-covered cafés, or vintage treasures hidden inside Portobello Market.
Whether you’re visiting for photography, culture, food, or a relaxed day out in London, Notting Hill is one of the best places to experience the city’s charm beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Best Things to Do in Notting Hill
1. Explore the Colourful Streets of Notting Hill
Exploring the colorful streets of Notting Hill is one of the most iconic and memorable experiences in London, and it is often considered the highlight of any visit to the area. Simply walking through the neighborhood reveals rows of pastel-painted townhouses, elegant Victorian architecture, and charming residential streets that feel straight out of a postcard. Each street has its own unique character, yet all share the same timeless aesthetic that makes Notting Hill one of the most photographed and visually stunning neighbourhoods in London, perfect for photography, slow walks, and discovering hidden corners away from the main tourist crowds.
Some of the most beautiful streets in Notting Hill include:
Lancaster Road
Probably the most iconic and photographed colourful street in Notting Hill with iconic rainbow-coloured houses located right next to Portobello Road. The houses here almost feel unreal. Every doorway is painted in different pastel shades and during summer the flower displays become even prettier. This area is extremely popular for photography, so early mornings are best for fewer crowds.
Hillgate Place & Hillgate Street
This quieter, hidden gem of Notting Hill offers a more residential and peaceful atmosphere compared to the busier areas around Portobello Road. It is known for its dreamy pastel-colored homes, including soft pink houses, elegant blue facades, and charming flower-covered entrances that create a truly picturesque setting. With its quiet cobblestone corners and relaxed streets, this part of Notting Hill is perfect if your are looking to capture the classic “Notting Hill movie aesthetic” and experience one of the most photogenic and atmospheric areas in London.
St Luke’s Mews
One of London’s prettiest mews streets, this charming location is famous for being a filming spot from Love Actually, as well as for its beautifully preserved pastel-coloured garages and elegant homes. It has a quiet, romantic atmosphere that feels tucked away from the city’s busier streets. Originally built as carriage houses, mews streets like this one have transformed over time and are now among some of the most desirable and picturesque addresses in London, known for their unique character and timeless appeal.
Elgin Crescent
Elgin Crescent is an elegant, curved street lined with beautiful pastel townhouses that perfectly capture the charm of Notting Hill. It feels more refined and luxurious compared to some of the surrounding areas, yet it still maintains the neighborhood’s signature colorful and picturesque character. With its graceful architecture, well-kept facades, and quiet residential atmosphere, Elgin Crescent is one of the most visually striking streets in Notting Hill and a perfect example of its timeless appeal.
Westbourne Park Road
Westbourne Park Road is another beautiful area in Notting Hill that is perfect for photography lovers. The street is lined with elegant white Victorian homes, vibrant colorful doors, and charming flower-covered staircases that add to its picture-perfect appeal. With its quiet residential atmosphere, it offers a more relaxed experience compared to the busier Portobello Road, while still showcasing the same iconic Notting Hill beauty. It’s an ideal spot for capturing authentic London charm without the crowds.
Colville Terrace
Colville Terrace is a quintessential example of classic London charm, featuring elegant Victorian townhouses and a calm, residential atmosphere that reflects the historic character of Notting Hill. The street is known for its well-preserved architecture, soft pastel tones, and tree-lined setting, creating a timeless and sophisticated feel. Unlike the busier nearby areas, Colville Terrace offers a quieter experience, making it ideal for visitors who want to appreciate authentic London street design and capture understated, elegant photography away from the main tourist crowds.
Colville Houses
Just a short walk from Colville Terrace, Colville Houses is another one of those little Notting Hill streets that feels straight out of a movie. Lined with pastel Victorian homes, colourful doors, and flower-filled entrances, it perfectly captures the charming and photogenic atmosphere the neighbourhood is known for. It’s especially beautiful in the morning when the streets are quieter and feel more local.
Pembridge Crescent
Pembridge Crescent is one of Notting Hill’s most striking streets, known for its graceful curved architecture and quiet elegance. The sweeping crescent shape is lined with beautifully maintained Victorian townhouses, many featuring soft pastel tones and ornate detailing that reflect classic London design. With its symmetry, charm, and understated luxury, Pembridge Crescent is a perfect example of the timeless beauty that defines Notting Hill.
2. Visit and Shop at Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market is one of the most famous and historic street markets in the world, stretching for almost two miles through the heart of Notting Hill. It is best known for its vibrant atmosphere, ever-changing stalls, and unique mix of antiques, fashion, food, and collectibles that attract people from all over the world. The market changes throughout the week, so you can have a completely different experience depending on the day you go.
You can explore a wide variety of stalls, from vintage fashion and antique furniture to handmade jewelry, vinyl records, art prints, fresh fruit and flowers, street food from around the world, independent bookstores, and second-hand designer pieces. What really makes Portobello Road special, though, is the atmosphere itself. Street musicians playing on corners, colourful shopfronts lining the street, the smell of fresh pastries and coffee in the air, and a constant energy that brings the whole area to life.
More than just a place to shop, Portobello Road Market is a cultural experience you can’t really replicate anywhere else in London. It’s one of the best things you can do in Notting Hill, where historic architecture, street life, global food, and unique finds all come together, making it one of the most iconic and photogenic places you can explore in the city.
🛍️What you’ll find at Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market is one of the most diverse and famous street markets in London, offering a wide mix of shopping, food, and cultural experiences.
- Vintage clothing and designer pieces
- Antiques and collectibles
- Handmade jewelry and crafts
- Vinyl records and rare finds
- Art prints and local artwork
- Fresh fruit, flowers, and produce
- Street food from around the world
- Independent boutiques and bookstores
However, according to long-time local sellers who have worked at the market for decades, Portobello Road Market has changed significantly over the years. While it was once known primarily for authentic antiques, original artwork, and specialist collectors, it has become much more tourist-oriented over time. This shift has led to a noticeable increase in mass-produced items, lower-quality goods, and stalls that are not always selling genuine vintage or authentic art. As a result, you are advised to be more cautious, especially when purchasing higher-value items such as vintage watches, antiques, or artwork, as authenticity can vary between vendors.
Despite these changes, the market still offers many genuine treasures and unique finds if you take the time to explore carefully. It remains an iconic London experience, but one where being mindful and selective helps ensure a more authentic and rewarding visit.
🗓️Best days to visit Portobello Road Market
Saturday → Best overall experience
Saturday is widely considered the best day to visit Portobello Road Market as it offers the full market experience, with the entire stretch of stalls in full operation and the largest selection of antiques, vintage pieces, and collectibles available. The atmosphere is at its most lively and energetic, with street performers, bustling crowds, and a constant flow of visitors creating a vibrant and authentic London street market experience. However, it is also the busiest day of the week, so while Saturday delivers the most complete and iconic version of the market, you should be prepared for larger crowds and a faster-paced environment.
Friday → Best for shopping
Friday is one of the best days to visit Portobello Road Market if your main focus is shopping, especially for vintage fashion and unique finds. The market has a strong emphasis on clothing, accessories, and curated pieces, making it ideal for browsing at a more relaxed pace compared to the weekend rush. With slightly fewer crowds than Saturday, Friday offers a more comfortable experience for exploring stalls, discovering hidden gems, and taking your time to shop without feeling overwhelmed. It is the perfect day for visitors who want a balance between atmosphere and space to properly enjoy the market.
Sunday → Quietest day
Sunday is the quietest day to visit Portobello Road Market, offering a more relaxed and peaceful experience compared to the busy weekend peak. The atmosphere is noticeably calmer, with fewer crowds and a slower pace, making it ideal if you prefer a more laid-back walk through Notting Hill. However, it’s important to note that many antique stalls are closed on Sundays, so the market is less focused on shopping and more on atmosphere. This makes Sunday perfect for photography, quiet exploration, and enjoying the charming streets without the usual weekend rush.
⏰ Best time to visit
- Before 9 AM → Best for photography
Quiet streets, soft lighting, and empty stalls - 9 AM – 11 AM → Ideal balance
Active market without overwhelming crowds - After 12 PM (weekends) → Very busy
Expect heavy crowds and slower movement through the market
3. Discover Notting Hill Film Locations
Discovering Notting Hill film locations is one of the most popular things you can do in the area, especially if you’re a fan of the movie Notting Hill. The neighbourhood is filled with recognisable spots that bring the film to life, including the famous blue door (now privately owned and relocated), the real-life inspiration behind The Travel Bookshop, and several beautiful private garden squares that can sometimes be accessed through special tickets or open days.
You can also find the famous pink house from Love Actually at 27 St Luke’s Mews, one of Notting Hill’s most photographed hidden streets thanks to its instantly recognisable pastel facade.
Walking through these locations gives you a deeper connection to the film’s romantic atmosphere while also letting you experience the real charm of the neighbourhood. This is why Notting Hill has become such a top destination for London movie location tours, attracting fans who want to explore the cinematic side of the city.
4. Visit Notting Hill’s Garden Squares
Visiting Notting Hill’s beautiful garden squares is one of the most peaceful and unique experiences you can have in the area. Notting Hill is well known for its elegant private communal gardens, often referred to as “squares,” which are hidden behind the neighborhood’s iconic Victorian townhouses. Some of the most beautiful include Ladbroke Square Garden, Arundel Gardens, and Pembridge Square, each offering perfectly maintained greenery, quiet surroundings, and a true sense of exclusivity. While most of these gardens are private and only accessible to residents, some can occasionally be visited during special open days, giving you a rare glimpse into one of London’s most charming and secluded green spaces.
Best Cafés, Brunch Spots & Bakeries in Notting Hill
| 🥐 Bakeries | 🍳 Brunch Spots | ☕ Cafés & Coffee Spots |
|---|---|---|
| Layla Bakery (£) | Farm Girl (££) | Guillam Coffee House (££) |
| Kuro Bakery (££) | Sunday in Brooklyn (£££) | Hermanos Coffee (££) |
| Sally Clarke Bakery (££) | Eggbreak (££) | Lift Coffee (£) |
| Klear Labs (££) | Beam (££) | Pockethouse Coffee (£) |
| Chai Guys Bakehouse (£) | Dendara (££–£££) | |
| Buns From Home (££) |
Best Restaurants & Pubs in Notting Hill
| 🍷 Modern & Creative Dining | 🍺 Classic British Pubs |
|---|---|
| The Shed (££–£££) | The Churchill Arms (££) |
| Holy Carrot (££–£££) | The Ladbroke Arms (££) |
| Sumi (£££) | The Phoenix (£) |
| Fat Badger (££–£££) | The Duke of Wellington (££) |
| The Pelican (££–£££) | The Earl of Lonsdale (££) |
| Caia (££–£££) | The Cow (££) |
| 🍽️ Everyday Restaurants | ⭐ Michelin & Fine Dining | 🍝 Italian & European |
|---|---|---|
| Granger & Co (££) | Core by Clare Smyth (££££) | La Mia Mamma (££) |
| Gold (£££) | The Ledbury (££££) | Essenza (£££) |
| Canteen (£) | Akub (£££) | Caractère (£££) |
| Raymonds (££) |
Where to Stay in or around Notting Hill
Luxury Hotels (£££-££££)
Six Senses London – Ultra-luxury wellness-focused hotel with spa facilities, high-end service, and a global luxury brand experience in a peaceful Notting Hill setting.
The Laslett – Boutique luxury hotel set across Victorian townhouses near Notting Hill Gate, known for curated interiors, art-focused design, and an elegant, calm atmosphere.
The Portobello Hotel – Iconic Notting Hill boutique hotel famous for its romantic, eccentric interiors and strong celebrity and cultural history, located near Portobello Road.
Mid-Range Hotels (££-£££)
Ruby Zoe Hotel & Bar – Modern design-led hotel inspired by Notting Hill Carnival, offering stylish interiors, a lively atmosphere, and a youthful boutique feel.
The Abbey Notting Hill – Classic Victorian townhouse hotel with simple, cosy rooms and a quiet residential atmosphere close to Notting Hill’s main streets.
London House Hotel – One of the best-value stays near Notting Hill, offering clean, simple rooms in a Victorian townhouse and an excellent location near Bayswater and Hyde Park.
Pembridge Palace Hotel – Affordable Victorian-style hotel just a short walk from Portobello Road, offering a central Notting Hill location at a reasonable price.
Budget Hotels (£-££)
Garden Court Hotel – A classic budget-friendly hotel near Notting Hill Gate with traditional townhouse charm, simple rooms, and one of the closest true Notting Hill locations in this price range.
Lords Hotel – Basic but well-located budget hotel offering simple accommodation and easy access to Notting Hill, Bayswater, and Hyde Park.
Park Avenue Bayswater Inn Hyde Park – A slightly more polished budget option with upgraded comfort compared to typical budget hotels in the area.
The Royale Chulan Hyde Park Hotel – Traditional-style hotel offering solid comfort and good value near Hyde Park and Notting Hill.
Notting Hill Gate Hotel – One of the cheapest hotel options near Notting Hill, offering very basic but affordable accommodation with good transport access.
How to Get to Notting Hill
Notting Hill is very well connected by Tube and bus, making it easy to explore from different starting points depending on whether you want to focus on Portobello Road Market, the colourful streets, or the quieter residential areas.
Notting Hill Gate Station (London Underground)
Notting Hill Gate is the main station and the best overall starting point for most visitors. It is served by the Central, Circle, and District lines, making it one of the most accessible stops in West London.
This is the ideal exit if you want to explore the colourful streets, cafés, boutique shops, and the central heart of Notting Hill. From here, everything is within easy walking distance.
Ladbroke Grove Station (London Underground)
Ladbroke Grove is the best station for reaching Portobello Road Market and the more local, residential side of Notting Hill.
It’s ideal if you want to start with vintage shopping, antiques, street photography, and the livelier market atmosphere before walking deeper into the neighbourhood.
Westbourne Park Station (London Underground)
Westbourne Park is the perfect starting point if you want to begin your Notting Hill walk from the north side of Portobello Road.
This is where the market atmosphere gradually builds — starting quieter and more local, then becoming more vibrant as you walk south toward the main Portobello Market area. It’s also great for avoiding the biggest crowds at the beginning of your visit.
Useful Bus Routes to Notting Hill
Several London bus routes also pass through Notting Hill and offer a scenic way to arrive above ground.
- Bus 23, 27, 28, 31, 52, 70, 94, 148, 328, 452
These routes are a great option if you want to see more of London while travelling, as they pass through central areas before entering West London.
Personal Tips for Visiting Notting Hill
- Visit early morning for empty colorful streets
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll walk a lot
- Weekdays are much calmer than Saturdays, but you won’t experience the market at its full energy
- Don’t only stay on Portobello Road — the side streets are the real magic
- Some houses are private homes, so be respectful while taking photos
- The area feels especially magical in spring and autumn
FAQs About Visiting London
What are the best things to do in London for first-time visitors?
Top attractions include Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, British Museum, London Eye, and Westminster Abbey.
How many days do you need in London?
A minimum of 3–5 days is recommended to see major landmarks and explore at least 2–3 neighbourhoods.
What is the best area to stay in London?
Covent Garden, Soho, South Bank, and Kensington are popular for first-time visitors due to central location and transport access.
What are the best free things to do in London?
British Museum, National Gallery, Hyde Park, Sky Garden, and walking along the Thames are all free.
What is the best way to explore London?
Use a mix of walking, buses and the Underground (Tube). Walking between nearby neighbourhoods gives the best experience.
What is the best time of year to visit London?
The best time to visit London is from April to June or September to October when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. December is also popular for Christmas lights and festive markets.
What food should you try in London?
Must-try foods include traditional English breakfast, fish and chips, Sunday roast, street food at Borough Market, and international cuisine in Soho and Chinatown.
Is London expensive to visit?
Yes, London can be expensive, but many attractions are free. You can save money by visiting free museums, using public transport, and eating at markets instead of restaurants.
What are the most Instagrammable places in London?
Popular photo spots include Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Notting Hill pastel houses, Neal’s Yard, Sky Garden, St Paul’s Cathedral from One New Change, and Covent Garden.
What are the best hidden gems in London?
Some of the best hidden gems include Neal’s Yard, Goodwin’s Court, Cecil Court, Sky Garden, Leadenhall Market, and Seven Dials. These spots are less crowded but offer some of the most beautiful and atmospheric experiences in the city.
Is London safe for tourists?
Yes, London is generally safe for tourists, especially in central areas. Like any major city, it’s important to stay aware of your belongings in crowded places.
Can you do London on a budget?
Yes, London can be done on a budget thanks to free museums, parks, walking tours, and affordable street food markets like Borough Market and Camden Market.
Travel Insurance
We recommend to book a travel insurance for every trip as you never know what could happen. It’s not easy to deal with any kind of problems when you are abroad, so it’s definitely worth it to be covered and travel with peace in mind.
We use IATI travel insurance and you can book yours through our link and receive 5% discount.
Book here if you are from EU: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en-eu/?r=96181493877707
Book here if you are from the rest of the world: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en/?r=96181493877707
Go City London Pass
If you’re planning to explore multiple neighbourhoods and attractions across London, a Go City London Pass can be a great way to save both time and money. It gives you access to many of the city’s top experiences, including popular landmarks, museums, viewpoints, and guided tours, all with one digital pass. Instead of buying individual tickets, you can simply scan your pass at each attraction, making it especially convenient for first-time visitors who want to see as much of London as possible without the hassle of planning every entry in advance.
eSIM
If you’re travelling to London and want to stay connected without dealing with roaming fees or physical SIM cards, an Airalo eSIM is a super convenient option. You can install it directly on your phone before you even arrive, giving you instant mobile data as soon as you land. It’s perfect for using maps, booking attractions, ordering transport, and staying online while exploring all the different London neighbourhoods in this guide. No need to search for WiFi or buy a local SIM — everything is handled digitally in just a few minutes.
Read Next
We hope this blog post was helpful to you and you are gonna have a great time while exploring London. For more pictures and videos check out our IG story highlights (London) and our feed posts & reels. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment bellow or contact us via email or even better via Instagram @borntotraveldiaries. Thank you for your time and stay tuned for our next diary page 🙂.
