The Ten Best Things to do in Notting Hill

Living and renting in London provides the perfect opportunity to explore the city and all its different boroughs. Notting Hill is full of things to see and do, ranging from markets to carnivals. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the ten best things to do in Notting Hill so you can make the most of this colourful neighbourhood.

1. Portobello Road Market

It goes without saying that a trip to Notting Hill isn’t complete without taking a wander down Portobello Road Market. During the week, Portobello Road is a mix of independent stores. However on the weekend, Portobello Road Market comes alive with an array of antique stalls, flea market stands and street food vendors that line either side of the street. The market can get very busy so we recommend heading there early on a Saturday morning.

2. Acklam Village

Once you’ve browsed the market stalls on Portobello Road, head out away from the chaos and into the quieter Acklam Village, located next to Portobello Green Market. You’ll find a treasure trove of street food stalls and live entertainment. There’s plenty to choose from with a selection of International Traders and Chefs from all over the world. Enjoy cuisine from Africa, Cuba, Greek, Moroccan, and much more!

3. The Notting Hill Bookshop

If you’re a film lover, this is one of the top things to do in Notting Hill. You might recognise this legendary shop front from the much loved film, starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. Rom-com lovers have flocked from all parts of London to relive scenes from the film, with some couples even getting engaged in the shop! Head to Blenheim Crescent, a side street just off Portobello Road to find The Notting Hill Bookshop.

4. St Luke’s Mews

Notting Hill is home to yet another iconic British film location, in St Lukes Mews. This pretty little road connects Basing Street and All Saints Road and was featured in the film Love Actually. The mews is full of pastel fronted houses, railings intertwined with green vines and oversize barn doors that double as shutters. Visiting this little street is definitely one of the most instagrammable things to do in Notting Hill. 

5. Electric Cinema

If you fancy an evening of luxury, this is the place to go. The Electric Cinema is one of the oldest working cinemas in the UK. Built in 1910, the cinema is a luxurious experience, with leather armchairs, large comfy sofas or a velvet double bed! There is a fully licensed bar serving cocktails, wine, beer and champagne with waiter service. The films screened here are a combination of art house, classic and mainstream. 

6. Notting Hill Museum of Brands

For a trip down memory lane, head to the Museum of Brands. The large collection will take you on a nostalgic journey through two hundred years of social change, culture and lifestyle. Wander down the time tunnel to see the memories of your childhood and the products you thought you’d forgotten. The Museum hosts temporary exhibitions, talks, webinars and workshops to examine the role of brands in history and the modern world. This is definitely one of the most interesting and insightful things to do in Notting Hill. 

7. The Ginstitute

Found in the heart of Portobello Road, The Ginstitute is a celebration of all things gin. With tables and large windows directly overlooking the market, this is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. On arrival your Ginstructor will take you to a blending room where you’ll choose your favourite botanical distillates to create your own bespoke blend of gin. You’ll also be treated to multiple gin cocktails along the way before leaving the session with a bottle of your own personal blend to take home.

8. The Churchill Arms

A short walk away is The Churchill Arms on Kensington Church Street. The Churchill Arms pub has to be one of London’s most famous (and colourful) pubs, mainly due to the exterior being adorned with flowers during the summer and a forest of Christmas trees in the winter months. Once inside, the interior is as equally as decadent, with old trinkets and vintage signs adorning the walls. If you decide to stop for a meal, they serve delicious Thai food.

9. Holland Park

If you need a break from the crowds, head to Holland Park for a breath of fresh air. Visiting Holland Park is one of the most relaxing things to do in Notting Hill, with a beautiful Japanese Kyoto Garden. It also has twenty two hectares of gardens, sports areas, large areas of woodland and a number of sports areas. 

If you want to discover more of London’s best parks and green spaces, check out our article here. 

10. Notting Hill Carnival

If you’re in the city in the summer months, Notting Hill Carnival is a must. Notting Hill Carnival is an annual Caribbean festival that has taken place in London since 1966 on the streets of Notting Hill over two days in August. Enjoy live music, parades and delicious Caribbean food stalls across the weekend. The event is free to enjoy from the side lines, or you can buy a package to actually be part of Europe’s biggest carnival parade yourself! 

If you want to know what it’s like to live in Notting Hill, check out our neighbourhood guide to find out all the spots to go, transport links and safety ratings.

If you want to give your bank account a break, check out our article on the best free things to do in London. 
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