Kensington – London’s Romantic Getaway

 

Hyde Park in London

Located right in the heart of London, the Kensington can easily be called the museum hub and a perfect getaway spot for locals. From bustling market places to serene gardens to top-notch museums, there is a lot that you can do here with your special someone.

You can also read: Find Your Zen at Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

Highlights of Kensington

Stroll through the Kensington Gardens to the Hyde Park

If you and your partner love being out in the nature and are up for a romantic stroll, then this something that you must do. Kensington has a ton of green space, so make the most of it and get going through the Kensington Gardens, which has become a popular tourist spot for many. As it is counted as one of the eight Royal Parks of the UK capital, you’ll easily some majestic structures and find yourself relaxing in the vast green pastures.

The park is also a favorite spot for picnics as it has vast lush green lands and blooming flora that refreshes the mind, body, and spirit. In-fact Londoners often visit Hyde Park and stay in budget hotels in Kensington for affordable long stays in London. Hyde Park is full of adventure and a nice outing spot for your all-day.

How to Get There?

·         Notting Hill Gate Station (20-25 minutes walk)

·         Queensway station (10 minutes)

·         High Street Kensington station (10 minute walk)

A Musical Evening at the Royal Albert Hall

The Royal Albert Hall is an immaculate spot for live music and professional artists. Built in 1871 by Queen Victoria, this hall has come a long way from showcasing live opera shows to now permitting a number of different musical genres. Enjoy the vintage vibes of  the old architecture, tall ceilings with classic music playing in the background, and spend a romantic evening with your spouse.

How to Get There?

Underground tubestations near High Street Kensington and South Kensington are the quickest ways to get to the Albert Hall and take about 10-15 minutes.

Shop at the Kensington High Street

Looking for ways to spoil your spouse and spend a little on yourself too? Then head to the Kensington High Street for a some good old retail therapy. Since Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, you will see heavy discounts and amazing deals on your favorite brands. Apart from shopping you can also find a selection of chic restaurants here. So do not miss out on this one!

How to Get There?

·         By train: Chiltern railways, Great Western Railway

·         By tube: Circle

Visit the Portobello Market

Visit the vibrant Portobello Market and immerse in its hustle and bustle. This place is the best to refresh yourselves from the mundane lives and revitalize yourselves with great food, fresh produce, and lots of thrift shopping. Not only will you find classic British cuisine here, you will also come across many Indian and Chinese delicacies that are made on the spot and are popular for its unique taste. Moreover, you will also stumble upon some extraordinary street performers that will put in awe with their talents and tricks. Portobello Market is the must visit place which can be easily accessible from Park City Grand Plaza Kensington hotel in central London.

How to Get There?

From Nottinghill gate take the District (green), Circle (yellow), Central (red) lines.

Conclusion

With so many things listed to do, you and your loved one will definitely have a great time in Kensington. Think no more and plan a day trip today!

 

 

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The Ultimate Hyde Park Guide

Hyde Park in London

One of London’s most renowned park, the Hyde Park, is almost on every traveler’s itinerary. As deserving as it is, many do not know about its history and how it formed. Let’s begin with a little background story

You can also read: Find Your Zen at Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

About Hyde Park  

Initially, Hyde Park was a hunting ground owned by King Henry VIII. It was made open to the public in 1637 by King Charles I. After his reign, the park was completely renovated by Queen Caroline in the 1730s, some of its ground works still stand still today. The Queen also constructed The Serpentine, that marks the boundaries of the Kensington gardens and Hyde Park today.

The park is also a favorite spot for picnics as it has vast lush green lands and blooming flora that refreshes the mind, body, and spirit. In-fact Londoners often visit Hyde Park and stay in budget hotels in Kensington for affordable long stays in London. Hyde Park is full of adventure and a nice outing spot for your all-day.

Highlights of the Park

Hyde Park is a place for all. Whether a group of friends, a whole family or a solo soul, everyone can find their sweet spot here.It is also a great picnic place if bring a good company with refreshing snacks!With that being said, the park is packed full of events and activities all year around. Some of them are mentioned below:

Speaker’s Corner

This area catches the attention of almost every single person passing by. This is a traditional spot for speeches and debates since the 1800s. As this is a public park, this spot is open to anyone who may wish to express their thoughts out aloud. Many notable personalities such as George Orwell, Vladimir Lenin, and Karl Marx have shared this space.

The Queen Elizabeth Gate

Taken as the pride of the Hyde Park, the Queen Elizabeth Gate was installed to commemorate the Queen’s 90^th birthday. The gate was designed by Giuseppe Lund who laid out the design of the forged steel in manner that reflected Queen Mother’s admiration for flowers. These gates were officially opened in 1993 by Queen Elizabeth II. If you feel like visiting the royal palace after admiring this beautiful structure, head towards the Westminster end of the park and visit the Buckingham Palace.

The Rose Garden

The Rose Garden was opened to the public in 1994, and was designed by architects Moggridge and Colvin. This charming spot of Hyde Park not only has blooming roses but also a variety of other floral species. Visit this spot in the mid-summer to witness the true beauty of the roses. Bring along a picnic basket and enjoy your peaceful time amidst these beautiful creations.

How to Get to Hyde Park

Due to its location, Hyde Park is high accessible by all public transports. You can either travel by train, bus or tubes, getting here is extremely easy. You can get an easy access to Hyde Park from Park City Grand Plaza Kensington via London Tube

By train: London Paddington (10 minutes’ walk-away)

By bus: Almost all buses have a stop here and would cost you a flat rate of £15.5

By tube: One of the fastest ways to get here is the tube. If you’re near the Piccadilly, then hop on to the (blue) line that will drop you off at Knightsbridge or the Hyde Park Corner. Another tube that goes around here is the red line that moves from Central London to Marble Arch Station or Lancaster Gate.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve listed ways to get here, and also pointed out some of the park’s best spots; this place is perfect to visit with your friends and family for a quick getaway.  

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London on a Budget

Visit London on Budget

On a tight budget but want to see London in all its glory? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered! You really don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun in UK’s metropolis with our top ten picks around the city.

You can also read: Find Your Zen at Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

1.    In the air with Fighter Jets

Flying a fighter jet may be a dream for many but for you, it can actually turn into reality. London's Science Museum provides an opportunity to fly a fighter jet without a license. Experience the thrill of riding a fighter jet from the impressive imitated cockpit and descending from 40,000 feet from the ground. The Typhoon Force simulator takes you on an action-packed flight, demonstrating the aircraft’s skills through UK’s scenic views. Visitors relish the Science Museum due to the immersive experience of technology and science all in one place and often stay in budget hotels near Kensington to save a lot of bucks in transportation and accommodation.

Total spend: £4

2.    Dive into the Renaissance with Shakespeare Globe

Relive the olden time by visiting the Shakespeare Globe located on the bank of the River Thames. The famous site is known for its larger-than-life theatre where the Father of Modern Literature wrote many of his masterpieces. The globe today stands as a monument to Shakespeare and continues his legacy through his plays. Witness the live plays and make memories for life!

Spend: £5

3.    Fly over the Thames

Aerial views make everything prettier? Doesn’t it?Look at London from a different yet breathtaking perspective with this airline cable car. It covers the city's classic tourist spots and is located just 15 minutes from Central London. The mesmerizing view of the golden sun setting and the city turning its lights on for the night is magical and truly a lifetime experience! 

Total spend: £3.50

4.    Experience the Ceremony of Keys

Be part of the 700-Year-Old Ancient ceremony. The Tower of London’s Ceremony of Keys is amongst the oldest surviving enactments. Although the royals may not reside in the towers, the act still holds importance and is carried out daily. And the best part is that this is absolutely free!

Total spend: £0

5.    Adventures of a Big Screen on a Small Budget

South London's PeckhamPlex is a must-visit site if you're up for a movie. This old cinema house has maintained its legacy by keeping intact its original interior and ticket prices. It screens the latest as well as classic old movies for viewers to watch and enjoy at a reasonable price. PeckhamPlex is just few stops away from Park City Grand Plaza Kensington via London tube.

Total spend: £4.99

6.    Glide with Aquatics

Discover the magical underwater world at Horniman Museum's Aquarium. The aquarium showcases aquatics fauna from around the globe. You will not only see the majestic creatures living and moving but will also be able to learn about their interesting lives and fascinating transformation over the years.

Total spend: £2.50 – £4.50

7.    Cozy Up with Indian Food

After an eventful day moving around London, enjoy a hearty meal at the India Club, one of London's first and original curry institutions. Launched in the 1950s the restaurant has maintained its vintage vibe. You can start with warm triangular samosas filled with vegetables and then move on to their most-loved Bhuna Lamb with freshly made naan bread. 

Total spend: £5 - £10

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