Property Special

This month A.K.A. Relocations has chosen to introduce you to Kensington – a charming area that is home to many of London’s embassies – along with its more affordable neighbour, Hammersmith

Centuries ago, Kensington High Street and Notting Hill Gate were Roman roads through the countryside, and Kensington Church Street was merely a laneway between them. Over time, two small villages formed around these thoroughfares, at Notting Hill Gate and at the junction of Kensington High and Kensington Church Streets respectively. Royalty first arrived in 1689 when William III moved into Kensington Palace, where Queen Victoria also resided before acceding to the throne; Kensington became a ‘Royal Borough’ after her death in 1901. Today, Kensington remains one of London’s most sought-after residential areas, boasting a central location, excellent transport links, quality schools, beautiful parks and a reputation for security.

Properties in Kensington are a mixture of mansion blocks, town houses and detached villas. Kensington Palace Gardens – or ‘Millionaires Row’ – contains some of London’s grander houses, although most of its current occupants are embassies and ambassadors. Attractive squares and communal gardens abound, and recently several high quality developments, offering 24/7 security and concierge services, have been built.

Kensington is famous for its parks, and Holland Park is certainly one of London’s most beloved. Although Holland House was devastated by bombing in 1940 much of its landscaping has been preserved (in particular the Rose, Italian and Dutch gardens). The House’s remains are now occupied by the Orangery, a contemporary art gallery, and the famous Belvedere restaurant. Close by, Kensington Gardens provides an escape from the bustle of London life, not to mention much fun for children at the Princess Diana Memorial Playground. Meanwhile, 100 feet above the High Street (atop the old Derry and Toms building) sits Kensington Roof Gardens. Laid out in 1936-8, these 1.5-acre gardens are themed in Spanish, Tudor and English Woodland styles and are also home to flamingos and ducks.

However, if rental prices in Kensington seem too high, then neighbouring Hammersmith presents a great alternative. With reliable links to Heathrow airport and Central London, Hammersmith mainly offers Victorian terraces along with pockets of beautiful riverside homes, mansion blocks and new developments. A scenic path stretches from the City to Richmond along the nearby River Thames. Ravenscourt Park is the largest in the area, featuring tennis courts, a playground and plenty of open space. There are over 100 restaurants in and around Hammersmith including the famous River Café (where Jamie Oliver began his career).