Is Notting Hill worth a visit?

Notting Hill is absolutely worth a visit, renowned for its iconic pastel-coloured houses, charming,, and the bustling Portobello Road Market. It offers a mix of upscale boutiques, antiques, and cafes, making it ideal for a half-day trip to experience a quintessential, picturesque London neighborhood.

How much time do you need in Notting Hill?

The answer really depends on what you're looking for. If you're short on time, a couple of hours can suffice to get a taste of Notting Hill's essence. Start your visit at the famous Portobello Road Market—an iconic spot brimming with antiques, vintage clothes, and mouth-watering street food.

Is there anything to do in Notting Hill?

Go on a Notting Hill Walking Tour with an expert guide. See the bookshop featured in the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts flick, spot celebrity homes and famous recording studios, and experience the buzz of Portobello Road Market, as you stroll around the picturesque streets and hear about the area's rich history.

Is Notting Hill a tourist trap?

Notting Hill can be a little bit of a tourist trap but my main tip for avoiding this is Goldborn Road. It's just the end of Portobello Road and it's basically Notting Hill minus the crowds and the queues.

What to avoid in London as a tourist?

13 Things Not To Do When Visiting London

• DON'T try to use cash on TFL buses. ...
• DON'T catch the Tube from Leicester Square to Covent Garden. ...
• DON'T be late! ...
• DON'T leave things to the last minute. ...
• DON'T go anywhere without an umbrella. ...
• DON'T stand near large puddles. ...
• DON'T swim in the Thames. ...
• DON'T leave your bags unattended.

Is Notting Hill Worth A Visit? - Europe Travel Pros

What is the prettiest street in Notting Hill?

Notting Hill's Most Colorful Streets

• Portobello Road. Portobello Road is certainly Notting Hill's busiest thoroughfare. ...
• St Lukes Mews. Speaking of mews, St Lukes Mews has some lovely painted homes including this absolutely charming pink one. ...
• Lancaster Road. ...
• Colville Terrace.

What's the best time of year to visit Notting Hill?

There's lots to do in Notting Hill year round, and there isn't a bad time to visit. You'll stand the best chance of good weather in summer, although Portobello Road and the surrounding streets are exceptionally busy on summer weekends. Notting Hill Carnival takes place during the late August bank holiday weekend.

How many were killed at Notting Hill Carnival?

The Metropolitan Police announced that facial recognition would be used for the first time at the 2025 carnival. Since 1987, there have been eight deaths related to violence at carnival: 1987, 1991, two people in 2000 2004, 2022, and two people in 2024.

Is it worth going into the Tower of London?

I recommend doing one; I did it, and our Yeoman Warder was humorous and entertaining, really bringing the visit to life with stories of the tower's history, from Traitor's Gate to executions on Tower Green. These tours are included with your entry ticket.

What should I see in London for the first time?

For a first-time London trip, focus on iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament & Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey, seeing them via a hop-on hop-off bus or walking the Thames; explore world-class museums like the British Museum (many free!), catch a West End show, experience a pub meal, and get skyline views from The Shard or Sky Garden.
 

What celebrities live in Notting Hill?

Celebrity connections: Stella McCartney, Robbie Williams and Damon Albarn have all called Notting Hill home. Pop-culture symbols: Notting Hill has featured in iconic films and fiction, from its namesake Hollywood feature to Paddington Bear.

What is the best street to go to in Notting Hill?

Notting Hill Walking Itinerary – Most Instagrammable Streets

• 1) Lancaster Road. ...
• 2) St Lukes Mews. ...
• 3) Westbourne Park Road. ...
• 4) Pastel-coloured Colville houses. ...
• 5) Portobello Road. ...
• 6) Biscuiteers Café ...
• 7) The cute pink house in Notting Hill. ...
• 8) The Churchill Arms (prettiest pub in London)

Why do people love Notting Hill?

Nitrate said that "Notting Hill is whimsical and light, fresh and quirky", with "endearing moments and memorable characters". In his review of the film's DVD John J. Puccio writes, "The movie is a fairy tale, and writer Richard Curtis knows how much the public loves a fairy tale", calling it "a sweet film".

How to spend a day in Notting Hill?

A perfect day in Notting Hill blends colorful street strolls, market treasures, literary charm, and park relaxation, starting with brunch near Westbourne Grove, exploring Portobello Road Market's antiques and boutiques (especially on weekends), finding books at the iconic Notting Hill Bookshop, indulging in treats like Crème London cookies, wandering through Holland Park's Kyoto Garden, and ending with a drink at a historic pub like the Churchill Arms. 

What time is the Portobello Market in Notting Hill?

Portobello Road is packed with antiques, clothing and food stalls from Westbourne Grove all the way up to and along Golborne Road. There are also a number of amazing spots to shop under the Westway along Thorpe Close. We are open Monday - Sunday from 8am to 7pm, with traders usually operating from 8:30am to 6pm.

Where do billionaires live in London?

Knightsbridge

When it comes to luxury, Knightsbridge is unmatched. Home to Harrods, Hyde Park and some of the city's most elegant residences, this area is a magnet for international billionaires, celebrities and royals alike.

Is Notting Hill nice to walk around?

Notting Hill is an extremely walkable part of London, but it does actually have a vertical gradient to its topography so I'd recommend wearing some good shoes if you're looking to explore the whole area in one day. You'll really notice it if you travel from the Ladbroke Grove area toward Notting Hill Gate.

What is the coolest street in London?

Blackstock Road, the 1km street running from Finsbury Park to Highbury, has been crowned one of Time Out's coolest streets in the world for 2025 🎉 From storied bars to old-school pubs, cult takeaways to hipster stores, wholesome family-run caffs to shiny award-winning restaurants, Blackstock truly has it all.

What not to wear in London as a tourist?

Dress like a local. Look, the iHeart London jumper you grabbed at Camden Market might be cute but it screams tourist. London is rarely wear workout clothes unless it adds you off to the gym. Just stick to jeans, T shirts, jumpers, and jackets and definitely layer up for the unpredictable weather.

What I wish I knew before going to London?

• Avoid street food. This is a controversial one, but hear us out: We don't mean avoiding London's famous street markets. ...
• Choose independent restaurants. While we're on the topic of food, this is a biggie: Don't get swept up in the moment and let the hunger get the best of you. ...
• Ask for directions.