Notting Hill

Notting Hill is one of London's most famous districts. Maybe because of its unique antique findings, or perhaps because of the colorful Portobello road. Certainly, if you have seen the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts romantic movie you surely want to stop by for a visit to submerge in the surroundings, where this memorable romantic comedy was shot. 

What to see and do 

After the movie was released in 1999, Notting Hill became a popular place to visit for tourists, but even before that, both the antique and the fruit and vegetable markets were a regular hangout for locals. While you stroll through Portobello Road, you will find cool vintage shops selling from clothes to antique accessories, kitchenware, paintings, books, old records and anything you can imagine filled with history. 

Portobello is also a perfect spot to take photos – a paradise for the avid photographer. And so are the colorful iconic properties that lie in the Portobello Road, between Elgin Crescent and Westbourne Park Road. 

Check out these places 

In Lancaster Road discover the Museum of Brands, displaying brands from food to cosmetics, fashion and more dating back to the 1800s. It will remind you of some of the things you used to eat or see in advertising when you were a kid, as well as give you a whole understanding of how the consumerism culture has evolved. The museum definitely deserves your stop when you are visiting Notting Hill. 

On Blenheim Crescent lookout for the shop Books for cooks – it is famous for its cooking classes demonstrations. Drop by for a coffee and watch how they test some of the recipes of famous chefs around the world in the room upstairs. 

Elsewhere, try George's Portobello Fish Bar for a traditional Fish & Chips meal or if you are feeling fancier, drop by The Ledbury, the 2 Michelin Star restaurant by chef Brett Graham. 

Hugh Grant's bookshop 

For some reason, visitors love to stop by the Travel Bookshop Hugh owned in the movie. The truth is that it never really existed as such, but it was inspired by the one located in 13-15 Blenheim Crescent street that since 2011 switched its name to Notting Hill Bookshop. The place where it was filmed however is at 142 Portobello Road, where now you can find a gift shop. If you are a fan of the movie, you might also want to check out the famous blue door in 280 Westbourne Park Rd and the private garden that Julia and Hugh sneaked out on Rosmead Road. 

Good to know 

Fridays and Saturdays are the best days to visit if you want to go antique searching. Many market stalls are opened across the road, which in weekdays tend to be less. 

If you are visiting at the end of August, you must go to Notting Hill to see the Carnival. The streets get filled with people in dazzling costumes, African-Caribbean tunes, and cuisine. There're parades, dances and food trucks to sample the typical Jamaican dishes. After Mardi Gras is the biggest outdoor street party you'll see!