Culturalist Alice Black on Kensington

Words by
Sphere Life
Photography by
Gemma Day

9th August 2017

The director of the Design Museum reveals her top tips on places to go in the Kensington area, including salons, perfumers and rooftop gardens

Alice-Black

KYOTO GARDEN

Holland Park, W11 4UA

Holland Park is a gem of a park and within its 55 acres there is the most beautiful Japanese garden. I often go here for a break from my desk and a bit of fresh air.

THE IVY KENSINGTON BRASSERIE

96 Kensington High Street, W8 4SG

Located on bustling Kensington High Street, this brasserie is a versatile place to eat. The hidden garden terrace is also lovely for the summer months.

CAFÉ PHILLIES

2A Phillimore Gardens, W8 7QB

A great place for breakfast on my way to work or later for a light lunch. I have two favourites here: the omelette with tomato and feta — it is light, but gives me enough energy to last the day — and lovely Middle Eastern salads.

RYNESS ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES

211 Kensington High Street, W8 6BD

Packed with electrical bits and pieces, this has the most unusual light bulbs in London.

THE ROOF GARDENS

99 Kensington High Street, W8 5SA

A verdant oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the street below, this offers a fabulous rooftop experience. There are lots of lovely flowers, plants and trees and even a pond with real flamingos!

CHLOE ALBERRY

84 Portobello Road, W11 2QS

A treasure trove of all sorts of handles for cupboards and doors. All the cupboard handles in my bedroom came from here.

LUCKY 7

127 Westbourne Park Road, W2 5QL

Although not strictly just around the corner, it is worth travelling further afield to go to Lucky 7 where they serve the best burger in town.

DIPTYQUE

195 Westbourne Grove, W11 2SB

French to the core, this lovely parfumeur supplies amazing scented candles. I like the atmosphere they create — it’s immediately relaxing.