Overview
The streets to the north and south of Kensington High Street were developed in the 1860s and 1870s as large estate owners released land for residential building, quickly becoming fashionable among wealthy professional and artistic residents. Today those cherry-tree-lined streets remain among the most sought-after in west London, particularly those sandwiched between Holland Park and Kensington Gardens.
Talk to us
Looking for a home in Kensington? Speak to Jane Wood & Associates for a discreet, highly personalised search shaped around your priorities.
Our Insight
Kensington suits buyers looking for family homes and large lateral apartments in a tranquil, leafy setting. Understanding the nuances of the various streets and blocks is essential, and many of the higher-value properties are sold off market.
Why live in Kensington
- One of west London’s most desirable neighbourhoods, with a strong neighbourhood feel, pretty tree-lined streets, and beautiful white stucco architecture.
- Sandwiched between two iconic parks, Holland Park and Kensington Gardens.
- Extensive facilities on Kensington High Street and Notting Hill Gate.
- A large selection of period and modern blocks, many with 24-hour concierge.
Property Landscape
Kensington offers a varied and distinguished property market. Handsome stucco houses and period conversions sit alongside elegant red brick mansion blocks and state-of-the-art new build schemes. Hillgate Village adds a charming pocket of smaller period houses with a village-like character of its own. Kensington Palace Gardens, one of London’s most exclusive private roads, is home to some of the largest and most valuable properties in the capital, overlooking Kensington Palace and its grounds.
Kensington Highlights
- Kensington Palace, a working royal residence open to the public in parts, with royal apartments and exhibitions set within Kensington Gardens.
- Kensington Gardens, with the Albert Memorial, the Serpentine Galleries, and the Italian Gardens.
- The Royal Albert Hall, opened in 1871 and home to the annual BBC Proms.
- The Design Museum at the southerly entrance to Holland Park, dedicated to contemporary design.
- Kensington Roof Gardens, a remarkable 1.5-hectare private members’ club and garden space, extensively refurbished and reopened in 2024.
Local Alumni
The W8 postcode has one of London’s densest concentrations of blue plaques. William Makepeace Thackeray, author of Vanity Fair, is commemorated at Young Street. Edward Burne-Jones and Lord Leighton helped establish the area’s Victorian artistic community, with Leighton’s studio house now preserved as Leighton House.
Education & Connectivity
Kensington is well served for schools at every level. Fox Primary and St Mary Abbots Church of England Primary are two of the most sought-after state primaries in the borough. The area is also well placed for some of London’s most prestigious independent day schools, the Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle, and several écoles primaries serving the French-speaking community. Transport links include the Circle and District lines at High Street Kensington and the Central line at Notting Hill Gate. Residents benefit from the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea parking permit, uniquely allowing holders to park anywhere across the entire borough.
Talk to us about Kensington
- Local Expertise: With over 25 years of experience as London buying agents, we understand the distinct character of Kensington’s streets, architecture, and market, ensuring our advice is always informed and insightful.
- Exclusive Off-Market Access: Many of the most desirable homes in Kensington are sold discreetly. Our network gives clients access to opportunities that never reach the open market.
- Professional Negotiation: We act solely on your behalf, using our market intelligence to ensure you secure the right property on the best possible terms.