A local’s guide to the best things to do in Notting Hill, London, with secret spots, hidden gems, and practical tips for exploring this iconic neighborhood!
Notting Hill is one of those places that seems familiar even if you’ve never been.
The pastel townhouses, bustling markets, and iconic film scenes have etched it into the collective imagination…
But beyond the well-trodden paths lies a gorgeous neighborhood rich with hidden corners, vibrant cultures, and unexpected finds.
Did you think you’d find Little Morocco in Notting Hill?
Neither did I.
Over the years, I’ve wandered through the beautiful mews streets Notting Hill is filled with, browsed its markets, its charity shops, and sipped coffee in some of its secret cafes.
This guide is a compilation of those experiences; a curated list, if you will, of spots that capture the essence of Notting Hill beyond the postcards.
Notting Hill, London: 14+ Hidden Gems, Things to Do and Tips
This London Neighborhood Guide is one of the many I’ve written about several parts of London I hold near and dear to my heart.
I’ve lived in so many neighborhoods of East London, West, North and South – so many I sometimes lose track of them all.
But if you’re looking for other hidden gems and unexpected places, here are some neighborhoods you definitely should visit:
- South London: Rotherhithe, Greenwich, Crystal Palace – for maritime finds, industrial buildings, vintage shops and dinosaur sculptures
- East London: Bethnal Green, Brick Lane, Canary Wharf – all with their unique take on life
- North London: Camden Town, North Finchley, West Hampstead, Highgate or Muswell Hill – all beautiful, some with that village vibe so secretly present in London
- Central London: Covent Garden, Soho, Mayfair, Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Oxford Street – so much hidden to unravel beyond the classic shopping spots!
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Wander the Colorful Streets Beyond the Usual
While many flock to Lancaster Road (above) and St Luke’s Mews (below) for their Instagram-worthy facades, there are other streets that offer equally charming vistas without the crowds.
Definitely check out my guide to Notting Hill’s colorful streets, and you’ll find there some hidden spots you can only really enjoy when walking around.
Explore the lesser-known corners of Notting Hill to discover vibrant houses and quiet elegance, then you can make your way to Portobello Road or Notting Hill Gate for some delicious breakfast.
Read: The Most Beautiful Medieval Sites in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Indulge at Maison Puget
Maison Puget, located at 148 Portobello Road, is a French bakery known for its exceptional pastries and breads.
From the outside already, you can see this is one of the cutest bakeries in London; the decor changes according to the season, and always looks spick-and-span.
Their offerings include award-winning baguettes and croissants, as well as classic French pastries like Paris Brest and other éclairs.
I’m unsure whether they are halal-friendly or carry vegan options, though – to stay on the safe side, I’d always go for a sweet option!
Read: The Best Vintage Cafes in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Explore Golborne Road’s Moroccan Influence
Golborne Road, often referred to as “Little Morocco,” is a vibrant street in Notting Hill known for its Moroccan and Portuguese communities.
The area features a variety of shops selling Maghrebian products, as well as Moroccan restaurants and cafes.
The street hosts a market every day except Sunday, specializing in produce, hot food, and bric-a-brac on weekends.
You’ll also want to pop by Lisboa Patisserie when you’re on Golborne Road – there, people speak Portuguese, and you’ll find delicious pastel de nata, just like you would in Lisbon.
Read: The Prettiest Church Cafes in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Discover Street Art Along Portobello Road
Portobello Road is not only famous for its market but also for its vibrant street art scene.
As you stroll down the road, you’ll encounter vivid creations by local artists adorning storefronts, signposts, and even the pavement – not something you’d expect in Notting Hill!
Read: The Best British Shops in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Shop for Vintage Treasures and Unique Souvenirs
Notting Hill is a haven for vintage enthusiasts, but also offers plenty of unique shops where you can grab souvenirs, like Summerill & Bishop and their upscale, artsy and sophisticated homeware.
Portobello Road Market hosts some of the UK’s finest vintage fashion traders under the Portobello Green canopy, offering iconic brands, old school textures, and bright colors.
The market attracts designers and celebrities looking for unique fashion pieces, and whether you visit London in the summer or the fall, you’ll always find something amazing to shop.
Read: The Best Things to Buy in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Enjoy Vegan and Halal-Friendly Street Food
Portobello Road Market offers a variety of street food options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes.
On Fridays and Saturdays, street vendors serve freshly-cooked dishes from around the world, such as churros, crepes, and curry.
Some of the most famous street food stalls are those with a crispy potato wrapping around a stick – so delicious!
Eggslut is also a great spot to visit if you don’t want to look for specific restaurants or are on a tighter budget.
Golborne Road features North African and Caribbean street food throughout the week; do check out my complete Halal Food Guide for options by cuisine!
Read: The Best Concept Stores in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Visit the Kyoto Garden and Dutch Garden in Holland Park
A 15-20 minute walk from Notting Hill Gate brings you to Holland Park, home to the serene Kyoto Garden and the more colorful Dutch Garden.
First, Kyoto Garden: the Japanese-style garden features a tranquil pond, tiered waterfalls, and meticulously manicured landscapes, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
It’s a gorgeous spot to visit in London for overthinkers and solo travelers, but I’d recommend popping by early in the morning, especially if you want to take pictures.
The Dutch Garden is rich in history, with a fully painted fresco of bygone scenes, a few hidden sculptures, and an overall feeling of ‘everything’s okay, you can breathe.
Read: The Best Themed Cafes in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Experience the Portobello Wall Public Art Project
The Portobello Wall Public Art Project showcases a series of artworks along the brick wall linking Portobello Road and Golborne Road.
These panels tell the story of the Notting Hill Carnival, from early preparations to the vibrant procession, celebrating the area’s rich cultural heritage. Gorgeous.
Read: The Most Beautiful Palaces and Castles in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Browse the Antiques at Alice’s
Alice’s, located at the Notting Hill end of Portobello Road, is an iconic antiques shop featured in the Paddington Bear movies.
The shop offers a variety of vintage memorabilia and curiosities, reflecting the area’s rich history and charm.
Read: The Best Historical Independent Shops in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Discover Moroccan White
Moroccan White, established in 2015, began its journey at Portobello Market in Notting Hill – this one’s particular important to me as I am a quarter Moroccan/quarter Berber and mixed French.
It’s not easy to find places that remind you of your home/culture in big cities like London; or rather, they never seem to carry the same emotional weight.
The shop specializes in Moroccan artisan products, particularly homewares with natural or neutral color tones, such as the distinctive Moroccan white Berber rug made from organic sheep’s wool.
So why not just pop by while walking around, just so you get a feel of the rich Moroccan culture when in Notting Hill?
Read: The Best Cafes in London With a View
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Enjoy Vegan Delights at Farm Girl
Farm Girl, located in Notting Hill, is a plant-based restaurant offering a variety of vegan dishes.
Those in search of Notting Hill’s best breakfast spots might love this place, especially since it’s one of the only cafes to offer various colorful lattes on the menu.
Their menu includes options like vegan pancakes and other creative plant-based meals, making it a popular spot for those seeking healthy and delicious vegan cuisine – and the coffee shop itself is really instagrammable!
Read: The Best Cafes for Hot Chocolate in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Explore the Museum of Brands
The Museum of Brands, situated near Ladbroke Grove station, offers a nostalgic journey through the history of consumer culture.
The museum features a vast collection of packaging, advertisements, and products from the Victorian era to the present day, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of branding and marketing.
If you’re after only free museums in London, that’s not the one – but it’s a great way to catch a glimpse of our past, and British history in general.
Read: The Best Cafes for Chai Latte in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Relax at the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle is a multi-purpose arts and entertainment venue located in Notting Hill.
Housed in a Grade II-listed building, it hosts a variety of events, including music performances, theater productions, and art exhibitions – and a really local find that doesn’t appear on many Notting Hill bucket lists.
The venue also features a restaurant, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy the local cultural scene – but if you love historical buildings, you can also pop by just to admire the architecture!
Read: 15 Historical Places to See Ruins in London
Things to Do in Notting Hill: Go Charity Shopping
If I’ve told you in the past about the very best charity shops in London, and have also done so by area with Camden Town, North Finchley or Muswell Hill, one can’t deny Notting Hill has some of the must-visit branches.
Since we’re in one of the richest neighborhoods of London, it makes sense you’d find secondhand designer gems in stores around Notting Hill Gate and down Portobello Road.
Fara is overall a favorite of mine; I love their Islington/Angel branch the most as it’s one of the biggest.
You can also find great gems at the Royal Trinity Hospice, Traid, Cancer Research and other British Red Cross shops.
And if charity shopping, or budget shopping in general is your vibe, do check out the guide I’ve written about London’s best Oxfam shops!
Read: London’s 2 Day Itinerary: Attractions & Old-Meets-New Spots
Notting Hill, London: 14+ Hidden Gems, Things to Do and Tips
Notting Hill is more than just a picturesque backdrop; it’s a neighborhood brimming with culture, history, and hidden treasures.
Whether you’re exploring vibrant markets, indulging in culinary delights, or discovering artistic expressions, there’s always something new to uncover.
So take your time, wander the streets… And let Notting Hill reveal its many layers to you.