Things to Do in Notting Hill: Markets, Film Spots and Hidden Gems
I lived in London for 10 years, and Notting Hill was always a great place to escape to — a place where the city’s energy felt brighter, louder, and more alive. I’d lose afternoons digging through Portobello’s antiques market, hunting for mid-century trinkets or old vinyl, bargaining with dealers when I found a cool piece of vintage clothing or jewellery.
The Carnival was a yearly highlight; that rush of soca, jerk smoke in the air, and streets pulsing with colour made London feel infinite. Even on quiet weekdays, I’d come for the hum of Golborne Road’s Moroccan cafes or a solo pint at The Sun in Splendour, watching the neighbourhood shift from market chaos to golden-hour calm. It wasn’t just a postcard scene—it was my London ritual.
Getting to Notting Hill
How to Get There:
Tube Stations: – Notting Hill Gate (south entrance) – Westbourne Park (north) – Ladbroke Grove (north) Buses: Multiple routes serve the area
Best Things to Do in Notting Hill for Couples
Notting Hill is a romantic haven for couples, offering charming streets, cozy cafes, and intimate experiences. Stroll hand-in-hand through the pastel-colored houses of Lancaster Road and St. Luke’s Mews, a picture-perfect spot. Enjoy a candlelit dinner at Clarke’s, a beloved local bistro.
For a unique date, browse the vintage treasures at Portobello Road Market or catch an indie film at The Electric Cinema, complete with plush armchairs and blankets. End the day with a sunset walk through Holland Park, home to the serene Kyoto Garden—a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Free Things to Do in Notting Hill London
Exploring Notting Hill doesn’t have to cost a thing! Wander through the iconic Portobello Road Market (free to browse, though shopping is optional) and admire the vibrant street art and antique stalls. Snap photos of the famous pastel houses on Rainbow Avenue and St. Luke’s Mews, which gained fame from movies like Notting Hill.
Visit Kensington Gardens, just a short walk away, to see the stunning Albert Memorial and Peter Pan Statue. Pop into The Notting Hill Bookshop, the inspiration for the travel bookshop in the film, and browse their curated collection. For a dose of culture, check out free exhibitions at local galleries like The Muse.
Unique Hidden Gems in Notting Hill to Visit
Beyond the tourist hotspots, Notting Hill hides quirky and lesser-known treasures. Discover The Museum of Brands, a nostalgic journey through decades of consumer culture, tucked away near Portobello Road. Golborne Road, just north of Portobello, offers authentic Moroccan cafes and vintage finds without the crowds.
For a secret garden vibe, visit The Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead Heath (a short trip away), a stunning elevated walkway draped in ivy. Book lovers shouldn’t miss Lutyens & Rubinstein, an independent bookshop with a charming selection, or Librairie Antoine, a French-language gem. Finally, stop by Trellick Tower, a brutalist landmark with a fascinating history and great views from its nearby café.
Notting Hill Walking Tour Self-Guided Route
A self-guided walking tour is the perfect way to soak up Notting Hill’s charm at your own pace. Start at Notting Hill Gate Station and head to Portobello Road, browsing market stalls and antique shops. Turn onto Westbourne Grove for chic boutiques and cafés like Granger & Co. Detour to Lancaster Road and St. Luke’s Mews for pastel houses and movie-worthy photo ops.
Walking Tour Route (2-3 hours): – Start at Notting Hill Gate Station – Head to Portobello Road – browse market stalls – Turn onto Westbourne Grove – visit Granger & Co – Detour to Lancaster Road & St. Luke’s Mews – photo opportunities – Continue to Kensington Park Road – find Hugh Grant’s door – Walk toward Holland Park – optional Design Museum stop – End at The Churchill Arms – Thai food and drinks.
Things to Do in Notting Hill on a Rainy Day
Rain won’t dampen your Notting Hill adventure! Dive into The Museum of Brands, a fascinating collection of retro packaging and ads. Catch an indie film at The Electric Cinema, where you can snuggle under a blanket in a vintage leather seat. Bookworms can lose hours in The Notting Hill Bookshop or Lutyens & Rubinstein, cozy spots with great reads.
For a unique experience, try a pottery class at The Ceramics Studio or sip tea at Tiosk, a quaint café by the canal. If you’re feeling indulgent, browse designer boutiques on Westbourne Grove or enjoy a long lunch at Daylesford Organic. Rainy days also make perfect pub days—The Windsor Castle and The Sun in Splendour are great for a pint by the fire.
The world famous Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market is one of London’s most iconic street markets, famous for its vibrant mix of antiques, vintage fashion, fresh produce, and eclectic street food. Stretching along Portobello Road in Notting Hill, the market comes alive on Saturdays when hundreds of stalls spill out with treasures ranging from rare collectibles and retro clothing to handmade jewellery and vinyl records.
While the antique section (near the Notting Hill Gate end) is a haven for bargain hunters and collectors, the lower half of the market buzzes with food stalls offering global flavors, from Caribbean jerk chicken to artisan cheeses and fresh pastries. Even on non-market days, the area retains its charm with quirky shops, colourful buildings, and cozy cafés.
Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind souvenir, sampling gourmet treats, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere, Portobello Road Market is a must-visit for anyone exploring Notting Hill. Don’t miss the chance to snap photos of the pastel storefronts and maybe even stumble upon a filming location from the classic movie Notting Hill!
Market Hours:
Antiques & Collectibles (Notting Hill Gate to Elgin Crescent) – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (peak: 10 AM – 4 PM) – Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (smaller selection)
General Market (Fashion, Food & More) – Monday–Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (limited stalls) – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (more variety) – Friday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (full market)
Pro Tip: Saturday is the busiest (go early to avoid crowds).
Street Food in Notting Hill
Aklam Road in Notting Hill is a hidden gem for food lovers, offering a vibrant mix of global street food just steps away from the bustling Portobello Road Market. This unassuming side street has become a hotspot for authentic flavors, with vendors and small eateries serving everything from spicy jerk chicken and Trinidadian roti to Middle Eastern falafel and Brazilian coxinha.
The Aklam Road Food Market, held on select weekends, transforms the area into a lively outdoor feast, where locals and visitors gather to sample dishes from around the world. Even on regular days, nearby spots like Taste of Africa and Mama’s Jerk bring Caribbean heat, while Pizza Pilgrims offers a taste of Naples with their wood-fired sourdough pies. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a full-flavored culinary adventure, Aklam Road delivers some of Notting Hill’s best street food in a laid-back, local setting. Don’t miss the chance to explore this under-the-radar foodie haven!
Colourful houses of Notting Hill
If you’re hunting for the most colourful houses in Notting Hill, these are the must-see streets and mews that look like they’ve been plucked from a storybook:
Best Streets for Colorful Houses:
Lancaster Road (Rainbow Row) – Brightest stretch between Ladbroke Grove and Kensington Park Road
St. Luke’s Mews – Famous pink house from Paddington 2, cobbled streets
Hillgate Place & Village – Bold reds, turquoise, and lavender cottages
Colville Terrace & Square – Candy-colored houses, quieter atmosphere
Stanley Crescent & Gardens – Elegant pastels with teal, lilac, yellow.
Pro Tip: Visit on a sunny morning (before crowds arrive) for the best light. Many houses are privately owned, so be respectful while snapping pics. For movie buffs, St. Luke’s Mews and Lancaster Road appeared in Notting Hill and Love Actually!
Notting Hill movies filmed here
Notting Hill’s charming streets and pastel-colored houses have made it a favorite backdrop for movies and TV shows, most famously as the setting for the 1999 romantic comedy Notting Hill, starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. The film immortalized locations like the blue door (now black) at 280 Westbourne Park Road, the Travel Bookshop (now The Notting Hill Bookshop), and the iconic Portobello Road Market.
The neighbourhood also starred in Paddington and Paddington 2, with St. Luke’s Mews and Portobello Road featuring prominently as the beloved bear’s stomping grounds. Other notable appearances include Love Actually (filmed near St. Saviour’s Church), The Italian Job (1969), and Bridget Jones’s Diary. TV series like Doctor Who and The Durrells have also used Notting Hill’s picturesque lanes and vibrant market scenes. Whether you’re a film buff or just love spotting familiar corners, Notting Hill feels like stepping into a movie set—because, quite often, it is!
Notting Hill restaurants
Notting Hill is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from elegant dining to cozy cafés perfect for people-watching. For a memorable meal, head to Granger & Co. on Westbourne Grove, a local favorite known for its ricotta hotcakes and sunny Australian-inspired brunch, or Eggbreak, a snug spot serving inventive all-day breakfasts like truffled scrambled eggs.
Coffee enthusiasts should visit Farm Girl Café for rose lattes and avocado toast in a boho-chic setting. For lunch with a side of people-watching, Daylesford Organic offers farm-to-table dishes in a stylish space, while Lisboa Patisserie serves authentic Portuguese custard tarts amid Portobello Road’s bustle.
Grab a seat at Gail’s Bakery or Bluebelles of Portobello for great coffee and prime vantage points to watch Notting Hill’s eclectic crowd go by. Whether you’re craving a leisurely brunch, a quick pastry, or a long lunch with street-side charm, this neighborhood delivers flavor and atmosphere in equal measure.
Top Restaurant Picks:
Brunch: Granger & Co (ricotta hotcakes), Eggbreak (truffle eggs)
Coffee: Farm Girl Café (rose lattes), The Good Egg (shakshuka)
Lunch: Daylesford Organic (farm-to-table), Lisboa Patisserie (custard tarts) – Casual: Gail’s Bakery, Bluebelles of Portobello
Best pubs in Notting Hill
Notting Hill boasts some of London’s most charming pubs, blending historic character with lively atmospheres and great drinks. The Churchill Arms is a local icon, famous for its explosion of flowers in summer and hearty Thai food served alongside classic ales—don’t miss a pint under its hanging vintage memorabilia.
For a cozy, traditional vibe, The Windsor Castle (one of London’s oldest pubs) offers a hidden beer garden and hearty British fare, while The Sun in Splendour is a laid-back favorite with a rustic interior and a sunny terrace perfect for lazy afternoons.
Music lovers should head to The Distillery, a gin-focused spot with live tunes and a rooftop bar, or The Elgin, a buzzing gastropub with a retro vibe and DJ nights. For a taste of Notting Hill’s eclectic spirit, The Ladbroke Arms mixes Victorian charm with modern cocktails, and The Uxbridge Arms delivers a no-frills, friendly local vibe. Whether you’re after craft beer, inventive cocktails, or just a proper pub atmosphere, Notting Hill’s pubs are as vibrant as the neighborhood itself.
Must-Visit Pubs:
Historic Character: The Churchill Arms (flowers + Thai food), Windsor Castle (beer garden) – Laid-back Vibes: The Sun in Splendour (sunny terrace), Ladbroke Arms (Victorian charm)
Music & Cocktails: The Distillery (rooftop bar), The Elgin (DJ nights)
Notting Hill Carnival
Finally, if you are in Notting Hill and looking for a fabulous party celebration the Notting Hill Carnival is an annual celebration that takes usually takes place over the long Bank Holiday weekend in August. This huge parade of floats and performers runs along the Notting Hill carnival route filling the streets with intricate costumes, steel bands, marching bands, calypso music and a variety of tasty Caribbean foods.
The Notting Hill Carnival is an annual event that has taken place in London since 1966 on the streets of Notting Hill, each August over two days on the August bank holiday.
FAQs for Notting Hill
Essential Visitor Questions:
Q: What is the best day to visit Portobello Road Market? A: Saturday is best for antiques (8 AM-5 PM) but also the busiest. Friday offers good variety with smaller crowds (9 AM-4 PM). For a quieter experience, visit Monday-Wednesday for food stalls and basics only.
Q: How long should I spend in Notting Hill? A: Allow 3-4 hours minimum for Portobello Market and colourful houses. A full day lets you explore restaurants, pubs, and hidden gems. Stay overnight to experience the area’s evening atmosphere.
Q: Is Notting Hill expensive to visit? A: Browsing the market and seeing colourful houses is free. Budget £15-25 for lunch, £5-8 for coffee, £4-6 for tube travel. Antique shopping and dining can be pricier (£30-50+ per person for dinner).
Q: Where exactly are the colourful houses from Instagram? A: Lancaster Road (between Ladbroke Grove and Kensington Park Road) has the brightest houses. St. Luke’s Mews features the famous pink house from Paddington 2. Both are 2-3 minutes’ walk from Portobello Road.
Practical Planning Questions:
Q: What tube station is closest to Portobello Market? A: Notting Hill Gate is closest to the antiques section. Ladbroke Grove is better for the northern food/fashion end. Westbourne Park sits in the middle.
Q: Can you visit Notting Hill on Sunday? A: Yes, but most market stalls are closed. Shops, restaurants, cafes, and pubs remain open. It’s actually perfect for a quieter stroll and brunch without crowds.
Q: Is Notting Hill good for rainy days? A: Absolutely! Visit The Electric Cinema, Museum of Brands, cosy bookshops like Lutyens & Rubinstein, covered vintage shops, and traditional pubs with fireplaces.
Q: Where can I park in Notting Hill? A: Street parking is limited and expensive (£4-6/hour, 2-hour max). Use NCP car parks at Queensway or Westbourne Grove. Public transport is strongly recommended.
Experience-Specific Questions:
Q: Are the Notting Hill movie locations real? A: Some are! The Travel Bookshop exists (now The Notting Hill Bookshop), but Hugh Grant’s blue door was auctioned off after filming. You can still see the black door at 280 Westbourne Park Road.
Q: When is Notting Hill Carnival? A: Last weekend of August (Bank Holiday weekend) annually since 1966. Expect massive crowds, road closures, and incredible Caribbean atmosphere. Book accommodation well in advance.
Q: Is Notting Hill safe for tourists? A: Very safe during the day. Normal London precautions apply at night. The area is well-policed and busy with locals and tourists. Carnival weekend requires extra awareness due to crowds.
Q: Can I find vintage bargains at Portobello Market? A: Yes, especially on Friday and in the northern sections (Golborne Road end). Prices vary widely – haggling is expected. Best deals are early morning or late afternoon when vendors want to pack up.
Logistics Questions:
Q: How far is Notting Hill from central London attractions? A: 15-20 minutes by tube to Oxford Circus, Covent Garden, or Westminster. 10 minutes to Hyde Park/Kensington Gardens. Walking distance to Paddington Station (20 minutes).
Q: What’s the best time of day to avoid crowds? A: Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) or late afternoons (after 4 PM). Saturday mornings before 10 AM are manageable. Avoid Saturday afternoons during peak tourist season.
Q: Are there public toilets in Notting Hill? A: Limited public facilities. Use department stores, pubs (with purchase), or cafes. Westbourne Grove has some options in shopping areas.
Where to stay in Notting hill
1. Luxury: The Laslett
Location: 5 Pembridge Gardens, Notting Hill
Why Stay Here?
- A stylish boutique hotel with elegant, art-filled interiors.
- Features a cozy library, a chic bar, and an on-site restaurant.
- Close to Portobello Road Market and Hyde Park.
- Perfect for travelers seeking a high-end, design-forward stay.
2. Mid-Range: The Portobello Hotel
Location: 22 Stanley Gardens, Notting Hill
Why Stay Here?
- A charming, historic hotel with quirky, individually designed rooms.
- Some rooms feature free-standing bathtubs and vintage decor.
- Walking distance to Notting Hill’s famous markets and cafes.
- Great balance of comfort and character at a reasonable price.
3. Budget: Kensington Gardens Hotel
Location: 9 Kensington Gardens Square
Why Stay Here?
- A reliable, affordable option attractions include Portobello Road Market (1 km) and the Royal Albert Hall (2 km).
- Clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
- Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want convenience.
Take a Notting Hill film tour
Explore the romantic area of Notting Hill, see the most famous film locations and hear the amazing stories about London-based celebrities with a professional guide on this 2-hour family-friendly walking tour.
Notting Hill’s Secret Spots: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
Discover the trendy and photographic neighbourhood of Notting Hill in London, renowned for its famous filming locations, bustling market and multicultural street food stalls!
London Black History Immersive Self-Guided Audio Tours
Discover three very different London neighbourhoods—Brixton (and Stockwell), Notting Hill (and Ladbroke Grove), and Shoreditch (and Old Street)—with these immersive self-guided audio tours that focus on Black culture in London. Learn about the Windrush generation, the Grenfell Tower disaster, the Notting Hill Carnival, the Truman Brewery, and more, with stops at Instagram hotspots too.
Notting Hill & Beyond – A Perfect London Adventure
Notting Hill is a vibrant neighborhood bursting with charm, from the colorful houses of Portobello Road to the bustling antiques market and cozy cafés. But your London adventure doesn’t have to stop here—the city is packed with iconic attractions just a short tube ride away.
For food lovers, Borough Market and Camden Market offer incredible street food, while Covent Garden dazzles with boutique shopping and street performances. History buffs can marvel at Buckingham Palace’s Changing of the Guard or explore Trafalgar Square’s grand monuments. And if you’re craving something different, Chinatown’s lively streets serve up delicious Asian cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
Whether you’re soaking in Notting Hill’s bohemian vibe or venturing out to London’s most famous landmarks, this city promises endless discoveries. So grab an Oyster card, hit the streets, and let London’s magic unfold before you!
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