Most charming and lively neighborhoods of London, Notting Hill flaunts colorful houses, bustling markets, and a rich cultural history. This local’s guide will take you through Notting Hill-beyond the tourist haunts-to discover hidden gems, iconic filming locations, or the best places to eat.
Portobello Road Market – More than just antiques
Must-see in Notting Hill is to pass through Portobello Road Market at least once. It is known for its antiques stalls, vintage fashion, and street food. The place is a heaven for treasure hunters and food lovers alike.
Insider tips:
- Arrive early on Saturdays for antique best finds.
- Check out the Oakborough-roared market, not really known to be mixed, but it is great as there are many Moroccan, Portuguese, and Caribbeans.
- Do not miss to discover the two odd secondhand bookstores that will keep hiding between market stalls.
The Immediately Identifiable and Colorful Houses
These pastel-colored houses lining picture-perfect streets are among the most Instagrammable sites in Notting Hill.
Best streets to capture:
- Lancaster Road: Bright colors of blue, pink, and yellow.
- St. Luke’s Mews: Noted by its characteristic cobbled street, featured on Love Actually.
- Elgin Crescent & Denvigh Terrace: A quieter area with lovely Victorian townhouse.
Places to Have Hidden Cafe and Brunch
Notting Hill is filled with independent cafes, each with its own style offering unique brunches and specialty coffee.
Popular among Londoners:
- Farm Girl Cafe – Warmly inviting and great for their rose lattes and healthy brunches.
- Electric Diner – Retro-style diner serving American food with an ambience buzzing.
- Granger & Co. – On top with its ricotta hotcakes and fresh Aussie-inspired dishes.
Notting Hill’s Best Bookstores
For book lovers, it’s heaven in Notting Hill. Independent and quirky, most also include some hidden gems and rare finds.
Must-see bookstores:
- Books for Cooks – Heaven with cookbooks of thousands for foodies.
- Lutyens & Rubinstein – The most beautifully curated bookshop with a reading nook.
- The Notting Hill Bookshop – Iconic to Notting Hill (1999): Excellent for film buffs and those believing in love.
The Best Hidden Pubs and Cocktail Bars
Part of the Notting Hill’s nightlife is featured in quite posh yet laid-back joints that serve nice drinks and have some live music going on.
Local Favorite Places:
- The Churchill Arms – Probably one of the most beautiful London pubs, profusely covered by flowers and with authentic Thai food.
- The Ginstitute at The Distillery – Must-see place for gin enthusiasts that also offers tasting experiences.
- Trailer Happiness – The super cool underground tiki bar serving mind-blowing cocktails made from rum.
Notting Hill film shooting locations
If you have an affection for the ‘Notting Hill’ (1999), then this is right; to self-guide those places from that movie.
Main points:
- The Blue Door on Westbourne Park Road – This is the actual door from Hugh Grant’s character’s home.
- Rosmead Gardens – The private park from the iconic bench scene.
- The Travel Bookshop – There was no original bookshop, but this area also would entail a visit for film buffs.
The Most Important Time to Visit Notting Hill
- Saturday mornings – Best for enjoying Portobello Road Market in all its life and buzzing glory.
- Spring & summer – Enjoy the streets when all burst out in color.
- August – Attend the famous Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival celebrating Caribbean culture.
Notting Hill is a neighborhood not just for tourists; it’s bursting with charm, history, and local culture. Vintage treasure hunting, sipping hidden coffee, or just learning more about its cinematic past-has something to offer the site.