The Hidden Pubs and Alfresco Delights of Kensington
Share
Kensington is home to some great ‘locals’ locals’ that are perfect for sunshine drinks and evening sundowners. From Georgian pubs with flower-laden fronts and al fresco dining spots to park-side brunch hangouts, highlights include:
Sundowner experience at Diana, Princess of Wales’ former haunt – the Scarsdale Tavern
Located in a quaint backstreet terrace in Edwardes Square, the floral-adorned Scarsdale Tavern is a lovely summery find. A former haunt of Diana, Princess of Wales, the historic pub dates back to 1867. While its interior is all frosted glass and gilded mirrors, the outside seating area offers a tranquil spot to sip a drink while soaking up the charm of the leafy neighbourhood surroundings.
Its drink offerings include a variety of cask ales and a well-stocked bar catering for all number of summer tipples with everything from lovely English sparkling wine by the glass and pale chilled rosés. The menu includes carefully selected cured meat and cheese sharing platters as well as an à la carte offering with a fine pub dining vibe. To book scarsdaletavern.co.uk
Drinks on the leafy backstreets in the locals’ local
With their inviting street-side seating and refined gastropub food, well-heeled Kensington locals keen for a casual catch-up over a pint, Pimm’s or G&T have a fine choice of classy backstreet pubs. Welcoming to non-locals too, the historic grand dames are an easy stroll from the tube station and include family run, The Abingdon on Abington Road, The Builder’s Arms on Kensington Court Place and the Elephant and Castle on Holland Street – but those seeking a spot in the sun need to get in quick before the locals snap them up!
Experience la dolce vita on one of Kensington’s Italian restaurant terraces
The Italians have quite the stronghold on High Street Kensington’s alfresco dining options. Tucked away on Thackeray Street Locanda Ottoemezzo is an Italian gemand its sun-drenched terrace is a great spot for food or drinks throughout the day. While more contemporary Italian experiences await at Enoteca Rosso, which combines a sleekly designed restaurant and fabulous deli, or coolio Italian Tapas restaurant Como Garden.
Kensington Gardens for Tea on the Terrace in the Footsteps of Royalty
The Orangery at KensingtonPalace offers a regal setting for outdoor tea and light dining with a delightful outdoor terrace and gardens. This elegant spot within Kensington Gardens is ideal for a leisurely brunch, afternoon tea, or light lunch – including the exceptional two or three-course lunch time offering of something more substantial. Expect classic British fare, freshly baked scones, and a fine selection of teas as well as well as plenty of English tipples and ales. https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/kensington-gardens/orangery
Leafy Parkside brunch under the historic arches at Holland Park Café
With an easy-osey Aussie vibe and set within the charming surrounds of Holland Park is The Holland Park Café. Featuring an expansive patio and terrace among the historic listed arches it’s a popular spot for an early morning caffeine blast or fabulous brunch. Not to be missed are the Gelato to-go – served from a cute ice-cream hatch, they’re the ideal cooling accompaniment to indulge in while exploring the other delights of the park including the Japanese Kyoto Garden and the opportunity to go peacock watching https://www.daisygreenfood.com/location-hollandpark
Top stopover cities with must-see sites just a short walk away
