Kensington is a historic district in west London within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The area developed around Kensington Palace and expanded significantly during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries as London's urban growth reached westward. Grand terraces, garden squares and cultural institutions transformed Kensington into one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods. It remains a major centre for museums, arts, education and high-end retail.
Kensington: Historical sights and information
Facts about Kensington
- Latitude:
- 51.501260
- Longitude:
- -0.194382
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°30' N, 00°12' W
The historical and tourist importance of the district
Kensington Palace is one of the district's principal historic attractions and has been a royal residence for centuries. The Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum and Science Museum form an exceptional cluster of major cultural institutions around Exhibition Road. The Royal Albert Hall is a renowned concert venue, while Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park provide extensive landscaped open space. The elegant streets around South Kensington, Kensington Church Street and Holland Park add further architectural and cultural interest.
Food, shopping and when to visit
Kensington offers an extensive range of restaurants, cafés, traditional pubs and specialist food businesses, from casual international dining to sophisticated restaurants. High Street Kensington, Kensington Church Street and South Kensington provide major shopping and dining areas. Late spring through early autumn is particularly pleasant for exploring the parks and garden squares, while the museums and Royal Albert Hall provide strong year-round attractions. Kensington is especially suitable for visitors interested in royal history, architecture, art and science.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Kensington.