10+ Best Things To Do in Notting Hill, London 2024

One of the most iconic neighbourhoods in London, Notting Hill is a vibrant and trendy area with charm to spare. There are loads of things to do in Notting Hill and you’re in for a real treat if you find yourself in the area.

This wealthy district in West London is located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, where you’ll find eclectic markets, hip cafés, luxury boutiques, and much, much more. You may have also heard about the thrilling Notting Hill Carnival which draws in visitors from all over the UK every August.

Though any Londoner will know about Notting Hill, the rest of the world heard about the neighbourhood through the eponymous Notting Hill film made in 1999. This classic romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant helped make Notting Hill the iconic location it is today.

In fact, a few of the hallmarks of this great neighbourhood are featured in the film (More on that later in this Notting Hill area guide).

If you’re exploring the exciting landmarks of London and looking for the A-Z on things to see in Notting Hill, you’ve come to the right place.

Where to Go in Notting Hill | Neighbourhood Attractions

From street markets to old school cinemas and modern art galleries, Notting Hill has got it all.

This neighbourhood is brimming with life, and you’ll be amazed at just how much there is to explore here. If you’re planning what to see in Notting Hill, here are some of the neighbourhood’s best attractions.

Portobello Road Market

The Portobello Road Market is a long-running institution in Notting Hill, with a history dating all the way back to the 19th century. As far as things to do in Portobello go, a visit to the market is one that’s not to be missed.

Home to endless stalls filled with bric-a-brac, antiques, collectables, trinkets, and everything you can imagine, this popular Notting Hill spot is not your average flea market. Expect delicious street food, vintage books and clothes, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere to boot.

There are virtually hundreds of stalls to explore, so you may need some guidance on where to start.

Well, the market stretches from the Notting Hill Gate on Holland Park Avenue to the end of Ladbroke Grove (any Londoner will be able to give you directions, so don’t fret.) There are also several cash points on the side streets if you need some shopping money.

The market’s main trading day is Saturday from 9:00 to 19:00. You can also shop there from Mondays to Wednesdays, 9:00 to 18:00.

There are virtually hundreds of stalls to explore, so you may need some guidance on where to start.

Electric Cinema

One of the oldest cinemas in Britain, Electric Cinema was built way back in 1910. This trendy and historical movie theatre is an excellent place for a date on a cold night in London.

Cosy up in your seat, munch on some popcorn, and enjoy the latest Hollywood and independent releases for a fun and romantic cinema experience.

The cinema also has a bar and auditorium where you can order various beers, wines, cocktails, and even champagne. Of course, there are also tons of cinema snacks for you to choose from before your film starts.

Don’t forget to check out the Electric Diner, the American-style restaurant next to the cinema. They use locally sourced ingredients, and the menu changes each day. Try the steak tartare if you’re there for dinner. It will blow your mind.

Graffik Gallery

London’s “prime urban art destination”, Graffik Gallery is a hip exhibition space on the famous Portobello Road, Notting Hill. Graffik is always on the cutting edge of emerging street art, and even houses work from the legendary artist, Banksy. The gallery is small and independent, making it utterly hipster-esque in the best way.

If you’re interested in graffiti and street art, you’ll love Graffik. The gallery also hosts graffiti workshops on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 to 13:00 at £36 per person. If you want to get your hands dirty and receive a masterclass in the art of graffiti, now’s your chance!

You’ll also find a store in the gallery selling limited edition signed Banksy prints, as well as posters from other local talents.

The Coronet Theatre (The Print Room)

Built in 1898, The Coronet Theatre (formerly known as The Print Room) is a Notting Hill theatre gem.

Originally designed as a theatre for stage productions, the Coronet is now made up of an auditorium, black box theatre, and a studio space, which now bears the name The Print Room.

Walking into this international theatre feels like stepping back in time, thanks to the magnificent Victorian architecture and grandiose of the building.

It’s also home to one of London’s most intriguing theatre bars. Drenched in candlelight and replete with antique decor, there’s no finer place to enjoy a good old glass of wine in one of the top bars in Notting Hill after watching a world-class theatre production.

The main auditorium presents a diverse program of international and local acts, including live poetry, dance, artform commissions, drama, and more. It’s definitely one of the places in Notting Hill that’s worth visiting simply because of its rich heritage.

The Notting Hill Bookshop

Warm, inviting, and filled with the magical smell of old books, The Notting Hill Bookshop is an absolute must while you’re in town. This is the iconic bookstore that inspired the Notting Hill movie, so any fan of the film will have a blast browsing through the many travel books lining the shelves.

But you don’t need to be familiar with the film to enjoy this influential bookshop. Grab a coffee to go at one of the many Portobello Road cafes and weave through the bookshelves.

You’ll find everything from travel books to children’s storybooks to leather-bound gift editions of classic novels.

Notting Hill | What to Do On Westbourne Grove

Westbourne Grove is a long retail road that cuts across Notting Hill, starting at Kensington Park and ending on Portobello Road – one of the most famous streets in London. This hopping street is home to the Electric Diner, as well as many furniture stores, florists, boutiques, offices, jewellers, grocery stores – you name it.

Westbourne Grove is also a great nightlife location thanks to its array of bars and restaurants, some of which are among the best in Notting Hill. If you find yourself on Westbourne Grove one evening, check out some of these popular eateries and bars for a meal (or a swig) to remember.

Chucs Westbourne Grove

Chucs Westbourne Grove offers a great atmosphere – and even better pasta. This hip neighbourhood gem is decorated beautifully with glass everywhere, brass rails, and drinks scaling the bar wall up to the ceiling.

Take a seat at the bar, in the dining rooms, or outside on a fairytale garden terrace with twinkling lights above. This chic spot will instantly put you in the mood for a good time.

Sip on bellinis in the glamorous ‘50s-inspired cocktail bar or indulge in a ribeye steak with truffle butter. Chucs also has delicious tiramisu if you’re up for dessert.

It’s truly one of the best Notting Hill bars and restaurants that you’ll find and is a great place to hang out with friends and family, or even by yourself.

Farmacy

If you like puns and vegan food, Farmacy might be your dream come true. Expect amazing vegan food and even better service from this health food restaurant.

Everything here is plant-based and completely free of chemicals and additives, dairy, and artificial sugars making it one of the best places to eat in Notting Hill all round. It’s wonderful to see restaurants supporting local suppliers, and Farmacy has been doing it since 2016.

They also have a charming High Tea Menu, which includes scones served with homemade cream and strawberry jam, and whipped lemon meringue pie.

All Farmacy cocktails are fully organic, sugar-free, and made with artisanal spirits. Honestly, this place is so millennial; you just have to see it with your own eyes. You’ve never dined out this healthy before – trust me.

Taqueria

For mind-blowing Mexican food, Taqueria is my top pick. This restaurant serves incredible side plates and street food-style dishes, as well as delicious Margaritas to go along with them.

This place has been around since 2005, and locals know they can depend on a great selection of mezcals, tequilas, micheladas, and wine. On a cold night in London, there’s no better way to warm up than with quality tequila and some spicy Mexican cuisine.

Beautiful Notting Hill Mews Streets

Do you know about London’s mews streets? Mews are essentially carriage houses – houses with stables below and living quarters built above, and London is famous for them.

The architecture comes from the Victorian era, out of a need for the Victorian elite to house their horses and coachmen. The nearby mansions are reserved for themselves, of course.

Modern mews streets are often tucked away behind expensive houses. There’s something about these hidden pathways that’s incredibly romantic, and you’ll find popular mews on many London travel guides.

People from all over the world marvel at the unique architecture on mews streets and admire the picturesque settings on the pretty cobblestoned paths. Luckily for you, Notting Hill has its own list of alluring mews streets, and I’ve covered some of the best of them below.

Denbigh Close

Denbigh Close is a pretty cobbled cul-de-sac just east of Portobello Road. Expect colourful flower pots dotting the street, as well as face-brick houses adorned with flower boxes.

Interestingly, the road was used as a location for the 1969 film The Italian Job starring the legendary Michael Caine.

 A stroll in Denbigh Close is one of the most charming things to do around Notting Hill, especially if you’re after a laid-back afternoon.

Colville Mews

If you’re looking for Instagrammable locations, visiting Colville Mews should rank highly on your Notting Hill itinerary. Many of the houses on this street are face-brick with whitewashed walls and vines creeping up trestles, offering a roadside view like something out of a postcard.

Walk down Colville, and you’ll find yourself outside of Temperley London, a clothing boutique with a two-storey mural of the Union-Jack painted on its storefront. What could be better for a travel photo of your trip to England?

Codrington Mews

Codrington Mews is an L-shaped cul-de-sac that screams ‘photo op.’ This particular mews street is small, but it makes up for it tenfold thanks to two attractive murals.

One is a giant ‘X’ painted in a kaleidoscope of galactic colours. The other is the captivating black and white album art from the English band Radiohead. If you want to see some cool urban art, this is the place to do it.

St. Luke’s Mews, Notting Hill

This bright and bold Notting Hill street is home to many colourful houses that tourists love to visit. You’ll likely see many people stopping to take pictures by the blue, pink, yellow, and green walls.

St. Luke’s, like other mews streets, is perfect for taking photos, but also for a pleasant afternoon stroll where you can take in the scenery.

Notting Hill Colourful Houses | Instagram Spots & Pastel Streets

One of the best parts of visiting a new neighbourhood is experiencing it as a pedestrian, and in Notting Hill, every street offers something new and enticing.

Streets like Westbourne Grove are filled with interesting sounds and smells, and St. Luke’s Mews is abundant with colour.

Tourists come from far and wide to see multi-coloured streets like this one. And we’ll explore some more fabulous ones below, and why they’re some of the best Instagrammable locations in London.

Uxbridge Street

Pastel shades are all the rage these last few years, which makes Uxbridge a popular photo spot/ The rows of houses painted in muted colours – baby pink, blue, and orange look gorgeous any time of year.

Lancaster Road

On Lancaster Road, it’s colour, colour, and more colour. Unlike some of the pastel shades you’ll see on Westbourne and Uxbridge, this road is not afraid to be bold. The colours are loud, the cars are zipping by, and it all feels very Notting Hill.

Hillgate Place

Another Notting Hill street that’s home to pastel-coloured houses, Hillgate Place has an inviting atmosphere to it.

You can take some memorable photographs here, and you’re bound to see others doing the same. The three-storey stucco houses look lovely on a sunny afternoon stroll through town.

Notting Hill Cherry Blossoms

If you’re like me, you probably follow hundreds of travel influencers on Instagram. This means you may have come across London’s famous cherry blossoms before. Tourists in London instantly fall in love with the flowers that bloom all around the city in the spring.

Despite London’s reputation for being grey and dreary because of the weather, the streets are full of colour. If you want to see great cherry blossoms in Notting Hill, Portobello Road is your best bet. If you’re headed to the market, make sure you look out for the famous ‘Pink Door’.

You’ll see a loud and proud, bright purple house, and next to it, the ravishing pink door that’s Instagram famous. With beautiful cherry blossoms lining the street, this attractive setting is the perfect place to take a memorable picture.

Ask a local for some directions if you can’t see it – although, with such dashing colours, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding it yourself.

Notting Hill Wisteria

Now that you’ve checked cherry blossoms off your bucket list, how do you feel about wisteria?

Wisteria is a gorgeous climbing plant with the sweetest lavender-purple flowers. And the best news is that they’re abundant in Notting Hill. So, where can you see the best wisteria?

Check out 4 Bedford Gardens for another Instagram-worthy photo destination.

The townhouse is resplendent with wisteria creeping up its facade, making for a great snapshot of one of Notting Hill’s prettiest streets.

Also – another pink door! The fabulous pink and purple colours at play here are sure to delight any tourist.

Notting Hill Restaurants & Cafes

Now that you know what to do and see in Notting Hill, it’s time to find out where to eat. From coffee shops to high-end bistros, this neighbourhood has options aplenty, and there’s a little something for everyone’s preferences. Here are some of my favourite eateries in the area.

Best Dinner Restaurants

Here are my top picks for a fantastic dinner in Notting Hill. You’ll see loads of other restaurants nearby, as the neighbourhood is overwhelmed by popular eateries.

Here are two of my favourites, with an adventurous option and a traditional one.

Andina Picantería

Have you ever tried Peruvian food? Well, here’s your chance. Andina Picanteria serves Peruvian dishes with a modern spin on them, offering a range of small plates, drinks, and mains.

The sharing platters are perfect for a group dinner if you’re travelling with friends, and the restaurant has an upbeat vibe that everyone will enjoy. This is a great opportunity to explore the food of another culture, especially since you happen to be in the melting pot that is the city of London.

So, dip your toes into some unchartered waters, and indulge in something different for a change. The friendly Andina Picantería staff will take excellent care of you.

Honest Burgers

For the best burgers in town, head on over to Honest Burgers. This burger joint serves up juicy buns with every side and filling you can think of cooked to utter perfection. There’s something for everyone’s taste, with three different burger patties for you to choose from.

There’s the Honest beef patty, the vegetarian and vegan variation, and the free-range chicken patty. No matter what you choose, Honest Burgers is sure to blow your mind with its flavoursome dishes.

Try the Bacon Plant ‘VE’ if you’re looking for something guilt-free and tasty. It’s a plant-based burger with smoked gouda, chipotle ‘mayo’ spinach, vegan bacon, and fries. You’ll be shocked by how Honest transforms veggie dishes into taste explosions. This local gem is a must-visit on your trip to Notting Hill.

Best Brunch in Notting Hill

Brunch is all the rage in London, so why not join in on the fun? If you’re looking for the best brunch spots in Notting Hill, I’ve got just the place for you.

Whether you’re recovering from a wild night with a hearty breakfast or just sipping on a coffee with a book in hand, you’ll love this Notting Hill café.

Granger & Co

Head to Granger & Co for some of the best coffee in Notting Hill and all-day breakfast. This light and bright café on Westbourne Grove is a popular spot, so be prepared to wait in a queue. But seriously, it’s worth it.

The menu is diverse and packed with an array of flavours. Have you ever had toasted coconut bread with butter? It’s bloody delicious, as the English say. This is also the perfect spot for a boozy brunch.

Granger’s got tasty Bloody Marys and a killer house cocktail that you have to try – grapefruit and vodka, no complaints here. If you’re not big on liquor, don’t worry, the milkshakes and smoothies are delectable, too.

Best Desserts in Notting Hill

For those out there with a sweet tooth, you’ll want to know where to get the sweetest treats in town.

If you want delectable desserts, pastries, and all the fixings, check out these charming spots in Notting Hill.

Amorino Notting Hill

Who doesn’t love the creamy goodness of an ice cream scoop on a crunchy cone? If you like gelato, you’ll adore Amorino. This well-liked ice cream shop has everything you can think of, including vegan and sorbet options for the health-conscious out there.

Grab a scoop of your favourite flavour and enjoy the childhood pleasure of licking an ice cream cone as you explore the city.

The Hummingbird Bakery

What a cake shop! Hummingbird is a local favourite, specialising in American-style home-baked goods like cupcakes, cheesecakes, brownies, and more. Its got some of the best desserts in London and thus is popular with locals.

Try their red velvet cupcakes if you’re in a decadent mood – you won’t be disappointed.

Looking for a Museum in Notting Hill?

Notting Hill is filled with activities and attractions for those who love shopping, dining out, and walking through the city taking pictures. But what about the cultural attractions in the neighbourhood?

Museum of Brands

As the name suggests, this Notting Hill museum is all about iconic brands that have become household names around the world.

From the Victorian era to the present day, you can learn about the development and transformation of consumer culture through the ages at this intriguing spot. The Museum of Brands is relatively small, but it’s packed with fascinating insights that kids and adults can enjoy.

Visit the Time Tunnel for a unique perspective on history. Consumer historian Robert Opie created this exhibition. It examines the evolution of advertising over the last 150 years and includes displays of chocolate bars and consumer goods the world hasn’t seen in years. This is a nostalgic experience you don’t want to miss out on.

Admission costs £9 for adults and £5 for kids, which will give you full access to all the exhibitions at the museum.

Best Walking Tour of Notting Hill

Walking tours are wonderful because you get to see all the city’s greatest bits on one fun adventure. If you want to see some classic Notting Hill highlights like the ones in this post, you’ve got to take a walking tour of the neighbourhood. And I’ve got just the one for you.

With this 2-hour walking tour, you’ll see famous film locations like the travel bookshop, visit spice shops, browse at the Portobello Market, and try out the local street food. Movie buffs will especially like this tour, thanks to an expert guide walking you through all the famous residents who live in Notting Hill.

Where to Stay in Notting Hill

I’ve got a round-up of some Notting Hill hotels that you can call your home away from home. Keep in mind that this is a trendy area, so you may want to book your room well in advance to avoid disappointment. Here are some fantastic hotels for you to choose from:

The Laslett

Made up of five stunning Victorian mansions, The Laslett is a premium hotel in Notting Hill and close to all the neighbourhood’s best attractions.

You’ll have boutiques and cafés right on your doorstep, not to mention the convenient facilities inside. The hotel has its own coffee shop, bar, concept store, and even a gallery with local artwork.

The rooms at The Laslett are classy and comfortable, offering wonderful views of the busy streets below. Once you’ve finished your morning coffee, walk on down to the Notting Hill Gate or the Portobello Road Market – they’re less than a kilometre away!

If you’re still not convinced, let me direct you to the trendiest hotel mini bar on the planet. That mini-fridge in your room isn’t filled with M&Ms and stock standard aeroplane bottles.

At The Laslett, you only get the best. Expect craft beers and delicious treats from local stores. This hotel is quintessentially Notting Hill.

Ravna Gora

This stunning period townhouse hotel is a short stroll away from Portobello Road and a stone’s throw from the best local restaurants. The rooms at Ravna Gora are cosy, the service is stellar, and you’ll be in the heart of Notting Hill if you choose this charming hotel.

If you ever need a hot tip on where to go in town, the friendly staff will know exactly where to send you.

Take a walk down to Holland Park if you need some fresh air. Roaming the gardens is a nice escape from exploring the busy Notting Hill streets, and there’s a cafeteria on the grounds where you can grab a coffee.

The park is a mere 10-minute stroll from Ravna Gora, and you can stop by some of the quaint local stores along the way.

Juliette’s Bed & Breakfast

Every room at Juliette’s B&B has a unique charm and character – quirky furniture included. But that’s what makes this hotel fit in perfectly in Notting Hill.

If you’re looking for stylish accommodations with a splash of colour, then this spot is for you. Juliette’s has great decor combining period features with modern twists, and you can’t beat that central location – just a three-minute walk to Portobello Road.

If you’re interested in touring the major London landmarks, this hotel is a good spot for you, too. Big attractions like Big Ben are only five minutes away by car.

The Portobello Hotel

The Portobello Hotel has chic boutique-style rooms from a bygone era. The hotel is nestled in a quiet area in Notting Hill, perfect for enjoying a peaceful breakfast as you start your day.

The hotel serves continental breakfast every morning, which includes organic coffee, pastries, and cheeses – and all locally sourced.

The Best Time to Visit Notting Hill

If you’re wondering when to plan your trip, well, that depends on what you want to see. If it’s the stunning flowers you’re after, try to get to Notting Hill in the spring when everything is in bloom. Spring in London is from March to May, and it may be much easier to find a hotel around this time than in the busy summer months.

Of course, the restaurants, shops, and bars in Notting Hill are dependable year-round. But what else should you plan your trip around? There’s an iconic neighbourhood festival you have to see with your own eyes.

The Notting Hill Carnival

The Notting Hill Carnival is a huge annual event that’s been running since 1966. Every year in the last weekend of August, the streets fill up with crowds, and the parades spill through the city for two whole days.

This is a renowned event and a blast to be a part of, so you may want to plan your itinerary around it. In the past, the carnival has seen over a million attendees, so you can imagine the epic night of celebrations you’re in for.

Expect parade floats, live music, hopping markets, and excitement all around you at one of the world’s largest street festivals. The Notting Hill Carnival is a playground for tourists and locals alike.

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Notting Hill

Notting Hill is one of those rare eclectic neighbourhoods where there’s always something happening. Whether it’s a drink out with friends, a stroll through the mews streets, or a shopping trip on Westbourne Grove, you’ll have no trouble keeping busy in Notting Hill.

The streets are alive with activity, and there’s a wonderful atmosphere in the area that you’ll have a blast exploring. Hopefully, you get to see as much of this fantastic neighbourhood as you can, taking time to visit each of the incredible spots in this post.

Remember to add classic attractions like the Portobello Road Market and the Notting Hill Carnival (if you are visiting London in August) to your itinerary, so you can see the most famous Notting Hill attractions.

Enjoy exploring this hip London area, and don’t forget to take some amazing photos while you’re there!

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