Tuesday 21 June 2016

Exploring London: Chelsea & Kensington


I think the first thing that comes to mind whenever I think of the Chelsea and Kensington neighbourhoods is the black doored and white pillared homes. These monochromatic abodes are home to boarding-school accented gents, freshly blow-dried fashionistas and maybe a luxury magazine editor or two. These posh, south-west corners of London are certainly for the elitist, but that doesn't mean exploring them will be any less fun or enjoyable. Aside from maybe picking out your dream home, these neighbourhoods are also perfect for coffee stops, delicious food and fancy drinks. There's also a plethora of shops and things to do on offer - think Chelsea Flower Show, Kensington Palace and Harrods. Now, let's get exploring!


Tube station: Sloane Square

TO EAT/ DRINK COFFEE:

No. 11 Pimlico Road - Oh boy, this place is simply the restaurant of all dreams. If you're in need of a great breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner come weekday or weekend, this place is perfect. For breakfast, indulge in their Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes, while for lunch you can devour the Halloumi and Courgette Burger. Then, why not stick around for dinner to try their House Burger finished with the Baked Orange Cheesecake.

Bumpkin
Decorated in a country-chic style, this welcoming restaurant in both Chelsea and South Ken is the place for modern British food that is locally sourced.

Tom's Kitchen
Hidden in the heart of Chelsea off Cale Street, Tom’s Kitchen is one of a number of Tom Aiken’s restaurants in London. Dine on wooden tables and choose from the ultimate brunch menu that never fails to start your day right.

Nell's
Nell's breakfast is surely quite something - expect everything from Smashed Avocado On Toast to Cinnamon French Toast.

Scoff and Banter
Another beautiful restaurant in Kensington, this place has a rather dreamy menu to match its interior. You can see the set menu here.

Bluebird Café
The Mecca to those starring in Made In Chelsea, this café/ restaurant is great for a light bite to eat and quick coffee with friends or a long dinner with family.

The Ivy Chelsea
You must've seen this bad boy on Instagram at least once. Home to the rich and famous, The Ivy Chelsea is a casual and relaxing restaurant serving a fantastically delicious menu and cocktails. Be sure to check out their beautiful gardens too.


TO SHOP/ DO:

The Conran Shop
Besides the incredible exterior of this shop, the contemporary furniture, home accessories and lifestyle goodies on offer inside lives up to its renowned name.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Need I say anything? This annual show, attended by the Queen among other Royals (obvs), celebrates horticulture, gardening and exquisite flowers. You may of missed this year's show, but be sure to attend next year's!

Duck & Dry Blow Dry Bar 
Hey, it isn't called 'The Chelsea Blow Dry' for no reason. If there's anywhere that'll give you a good a blowdry, it's this place.

Saatchi Gallery
A trip to Chelsea isn't complete without immersing oneself in the rich art scene. Expect to see some rather quirky and mind-boggling art.

Kensington Gardens/ Palace
I have a rather funny story to tell you about this one. My sister and I were simply wandering around Kensington Gardens one day, only to bump in to Kate Middleton and Prince William with new-born George (this was a few years ago)! I saw a crowd heading over to the gates of the Palace and suggested we do the same to see what the buzz was about. A few minutes later and out they came in their car, waving to the small crowd of about ten of us. If you decide to go there soon, perhaps you might seem them too, (although if I'm correct in saying, I think they live somewhere else now!).

You might also like...
The V&A Museum, Charity Shops (you're bound to bump into some vintage Chanel in this place), Holland Park and Royal Albert Hall.


TO DRINK/ DANCE:

No. 11 Pimlico Road
This place is also infamously known for it's tasty cocktails. See above if you want to hear about their delicious menu too.

Goat Chelsea
Above the restaurant sits a fantastic cocktail bar that showcases DJ's every Thursday-Saturday. You can also join the Old Fashioned Cocktail Club that runs every Thursday from 7 til 9pm.

The Phene
Also a Made In Chelsea hotspot, there are other reasons for visiting this pub-come-bistro aside from spotting the odd cast member. It boasts a beautiful little courtyard and a great cocktail list.

Also check out: Embargo


Where have you been to in Chelsea/ Kensington? Leave your recommendations below!
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