Your guide to living in Notting Hill
Notting Hill has the best of both worlds; if you’re looking for a perfect balance between electric and laid-back, then this area of West London is for you. Home to the second largest carnival in the world, and the backdrop to one of the most iconic rom-com movies of all time, Notting Hill has plenty going for it. Think traditional English pubs, incredible vegan cafes, dogs at every corner, and of course Portobello Market, what more do you want?
Where is it?
Located in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, this area of West London is a gem.
Notting Hill is a large area with no official boundaries, with Portobello Road and Notting Hill Gate at the centre. But with several surrounding neighbourhoods, including Holland Park, Ladbroke Grove, Westbourne Green, Westbourne Grove, North Kensington, you’re spoilt for choice. Due to Notting Hill’s gentrification in the late 90’s, areas further towards the outskirts of London are experiencing significant gentrification in the last few years, due to the great location and cheap rents, these areas include Kensal Green and Maida Hill.
Before you decide to move to this side of West London, read on for our locals guide to W11’s best spots…
What’s it like?
Notting Hill is not only vibrant in colour but vibrant in nature. Populated with multi-coloured townhouses and busy market stalls, it manages to be both electric and relaxed, where the energy is unmatched.
Since its gentrification, Notting Hill is now one of the most sought-after postcodes in London, after being a densely populated area of deprivation. Add to that beautiful terraced houses and peaceful communal gardens and it’s not hard to see Notting Hill's appeal.
A melting pot of multiculturalism with large West Indian and Portuguese communities, the home of one of London’s busiest markets and the backdrop for world’s second largest carnival, Notting Hill is without a doubt one of London’s most lively and iconic areas.
Surprisingly, council tax rates are fairly low compared to other areas in London, regardless of being in one of the most expensive boroughs around.
What’s the transport like?
Connected to four different lines, Notting Hill’s accessibility is ideal for commuters, sitting on not only the District and Circle Lines, but the all-important Central Line. With a tube journey just three minutes from Paddington and several stops to Liverpool Street, Notting Hill is never far away from the best train stations in London. Think short commutes, weekend getaways and easy access to the Heathrow Express from Paddington Station!
District Line:
Notting Hill Gate
Circle Line:
Notting Hill Gate
Central Line:
Holland Park
Queensway
Circle and Hammersmith & City Lines:
Ladbroke Grove
Latimer Road
As for buses, you’re spoilt for choice. Seven routes serve the area, taking you all the way from Camden in the North to Chiswick in the West.
Where do the locals go?
Parks: With several private gardens dotted around the area, this is one thing people might say Notting Hill might lack. Ladbroke Square Garden or Holland Park are your best picks, or if you’re looking for some more space, Hyde Park is not too far away!
Events: Stating the obvious, Notting Hill Carnival is probably what this area is most known for. Beginning in 1966 as a way of soothing race relations between British and Caribbean communities, today the event celebrates the Caribbean communities, and honours the culture. Attracting 2 million visitors each year, Notting Hill Carnival is THE place to be on the August Bank Holiday. Expect bold costumes, calypso music, jerk chicken and plenty of day drinking in the sun. What more do you want?
Activities: Film buffs are spoilt for choice in Notting Hill. Escape the Portobello crowds and take a (very plush) seat at one of the country’s oldest film theatres, The Electric Cinema. Think leather armchairs, cashmere blankets and table service straight to your seat. Those after cult and indie flicks should head to Grade II listed corner cinema The Gate Picturehouse, the perfect place to while away a rainy afternoon. If you’re a dog owner, then Notting Hill is the perfect place for you and your pooch. As one of the most dog friendly areas in London, both you and your dog will be spoiled. With dog-friendly cafes, and groomers and daycare galore, you can’t walk very far before bumping into some of London’s most adorable four legged friends.
The best restaurants: If you love quaint brunch spots, then Notting Hill is the neighbourhood for you. Packed with stunning small cafe’s, you’re never short of an eggs benedict with an iced latte. Try Granger & Co, Farmacy or Farmgirl for healthy Aussie inspired dishes with many vegan and veggie options. One of Notting Hill’s best kept secrets is the Secret Sandwich Shop, and it’s exactly what it says on the tin. A go-to lunch favourite for the locals, and hidden away unassumingly on the ground floor of Globe (West London's best kept secret club!). Think generous layers of colourful mouth-watering fillings in squidgy thick slices of bread. Have we convinced you to move here yet? If you’re looking to splash the cash, try Gold for an evening of upmarket tasty food and drink, or check out Sumi for some of the best sushi around.
The best pubs: When it comes to pubs in Notting Hill you’re spoilt for choice. Check out The Distillery on Portobello Road, a favourite among the locals and gin-fanatics, and the four storey home of Portobello Road Dry Gin. For a classic Victorian British pub, another favourite is the Cock & Bottle. Hidden away on a quiet street just off Westbourne Grove, it doesn’t get any more traditional than this gem. Boasting a bustling outdoor space come summertime and real wood fireplaces for the winter months, The Elgin is one of W11’s favourite neighbourhood pubs. The Walmer Castle is not only one of Notting Hill's most iconic pubs, but it's also Adele's favourite pub in London!
The best coffee shops: For some of the best coffee around, head over to Juicebaby on Westbourne Grove. This vegan coffee shop serves not only delicious hot and iced drinks, but also plant-based sweet treats, on-the-go lunches and acai bowls.
Shops: Of course the iconic Portobello Market gets a special mention, as one of the most well known and exciting markets in the world. With over 1000 dealers setting up shop every weekend, selling unusual antiques, street food and one-of-a-kind vintage clothing, Portobello market is an experience like no other. Notting Hill is also home to some of the best boutique clothing shops, perfect for you fashionistas. Try Reformation, Melissa Odabash and Couverture & The Garbstore for some of the best clothing and accessories.
What’s it famous for?
So, we already know Notting Hill is known for its carnival and market, but what else is it famous for?
Sharing the same name with one of the most heart-warming romantic-comedy films of all time, it’s hard not to associate Notting Hill with Notting Hill. Helping put this area on the map, people travel far and wide to see where Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant fell in love, and to visit THAT travel bookshop!
With a vast amount of large townhouses, the creatives of Notting Hill have made their mark in the property market. It’s hard to miss the brightly coloured painted houses all around the neighbourhood, making Notting Hill one of the most photogenic and dynamic areas around.
Want to know the average room rent for Notting Hill, and other London postcodes? Check out our latest guide here!
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