If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street or the madness of tourist attractions such as Buckingham Palace, then why not make your way to South Kensington? This district, just west of Central London in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, is architecturally beautiful and home to an array of cultural gems. It’s an upmarket part of the city that’s well worth exploring. So here’s a guide for a quiet walk around the area.
Starting Point – South Kensington Station
The easiest place to start your adventure is South Kensington Station. Like all London transport hotspots, the station itself is bustling, but step away and you’ll instantly feel the calming effects of the area itself. While you can access some of London’s most celebrated museums from here, a quiet walk can begin on Thurloe Street. Walk east towards Thurloe Square, which has a pretty private garden for residents and, at its southern end, the Thin House. Built in the late 19th century, it’s a block of flats that measures just 1.8m wide at its narrowest!
Head to Onslow Square
From here, it’s just a short stroll to Onslow Square. Lined with picturesque Georgian and Victorian houses, it is a great example of the area’s unique architecture. There’s also an Anglican Church that dates back to 1860. Wander through the surrounding streets to see some beautiful buildings, browse the small boutiques, or have a coffee in one of the cafés.
Visit The Boltons
From Onslow Square, head west via Old Brompton Road and take a left onto The Boltons. Formerly an area of farmland, this is now one of London’s most exclusive yet little known areas. Not frequented by the average tourist, it will give you the chance to admire pretty, white-fronted residential buildings. While there, don’t miss St Mary The Boltons Church, a Grade II listed building that was constructed in 1849-50.
Discover Cornwall Gardens
A 20-minute walk north past the Gloucester Road tube station will bring you to Cornwall Gardens. Another of Kensington’s tranquil spaces, this is one of three private gardens shaded by some of London’s tallest plane trees, which are over 150 years old. The area has been home to notable residents such as novelist Dame Iris Murdoch, actress Dame Diana Rigg, playwright Sir Terence Rattigan, and jurist and legal historian Sir Henry Maine.
Visit Little India
Cornwall Gardens is sometimes referred to as Little India due to its colonial links. Around five minutes’ walk away, you’ll find a curry house in South London bearing the same name. Here, you’ll be able to sample some of India’s finest cuisine, including Tandoori classics and contemporary curries. Our curry house in Kensington enables you to enjoy great food just a stone’s throw from some of the area’s hidden treasures, as well as being close to the museums and Royal Albert Hall. If you’re looking for a food place in Kensington, don’t miss the chance to eat with us!
