Things to Do in Notting Hill

 

I’ve finally gotten myself around to posting an update from London! While there’s something to be said for having a well-documented time abroad, I’ve found it quite a bit more enjoyable soaking up the memories more than the media over the past two weeks. We’ve already done quite a bit and have loads more on the list, but first let’s start with last week’s trip to Notting Hill.

 

Notting Hill is this quant little area in the heart of London (take the Tube to Notting Hill Gate) with patchwork houses in all varieties of the cutest pastels you could imagine. It’s known for its vintage and antiques as well as Portobello Market.

Thing to Do in Notting Hill:

 

 

The Obvious: Portobello Market

Technically Portobello Road Market, Portobello Market is just that: a road that runs north-south through the heart of Notting Hill with an amazing market lining its sidewalks. Here you’ll pass windows and windows of antiques, vintage furs, millineries and all sorts of street stands.

 

 Hit Those Street Stands

As you wander through Portobello Market, there’s a variety of food and fruit stands along the way. If I’ve learned anything (which I most definitely have!) since being in London, it’s to be open to the idea of food stands. In the States, I’m definitely a bit more wary.

We stopped at this excellent Greek stand. The owner was hilarious and let us try a variety of olives before purchasing. Definitely take a try!

 

 

Shop the Appletree Boutique

I’m partial to this spot as I scored the cutest baby blue baby doll dress adorned with macaroons (which I’m most definitely wearing to our upcoming afternoon tea reservation at Claridge’s!).

 

 

Grab a Cupcake from Hummingbird Bakery

Hummingbird will always have a place in my heart. While it is a chain and you can find locations elsewhere in London, picking up a classic vanilla on vanilla cupcake and sitting on the steps across the street will always remind me of my first trip to Notting Hill as kid.

 

 

Banksy Mural/ Unofficial Banksy Shop

On your way from the Notting Hill Gate tube stop up to Portobello Road, check out the Banksy “Made You Look” mural. Once you make your way to the road market, you’ll find the “Unofficial Banky Shop" which has loads of product with his famous pieces on them. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a cool way to check out a lot of his work.