High Street Kensington serves up romance in all its guises this Valentine’s Day. From shopping on off-the-radar backstreets or the discovery of a perfect dolce vita sandwich paired with park strolling and free contemporary design, to full-blown royal splendour, the neighbourhood offers thoughtfully curated dates for every kind of couple.
Highlights include:
My Secret Valentine – for some off-the-radar charm discover hidden haunts at Leighton House’s mosaic-rich Arab Hall; the old-world charm of Kensington Church Walk and cosy backstreet romance at Maggie Jones restaurant
For a romantic date away from the throng, Kensington’s backstreets harbour surprising hidden pockets. Start with some Victorian romanticism at Leighton House, the former home of Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton. This intimate and little-known museum and the jewellery-box appeal of its mosaic-rich Arab Hall makes for an impressive start to the day (https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/museums, tickets £14pp).
From here, stroll through the leafy lined Kensington Church Walk, one of London’s prettiest yet little-known lanes for lovers is a must. Framed by original 19th-century façades it offers a village-like charm with independent boutiques and antique jewellery shops. Finish with dinner at the recently re-opened Maggie Jones. Named after the booking pseudonym of the late Princess Margaret (who lived at nearby Kensington Palace for years), the cosy and rustic restaurant is tucked away in a little cul-de-sac between Kensington High Street and Kensington Church Street. Famed for hearty British cooking (including its famous fish pie), alongside the à la carte menu, there’s a special two-course lunch or dinner menu from £36.95 or three courses for £43.95. www.maggie-jones.co.uk
Alternatively, for those keen to introduce their Valentine to one of London’s most authentic and exciting Lebanese menus, Joseph’s Brasserie is a must https://www.josephsbrasserie.co.uk
Budget Savvy Brilliance – for the design-inclined featuring an Italian ‘Schiacciate’ sandwich from Casa Crunchy, a stroll around Holland Park’s Kyoto Gardens and the latest free exhibition at The Design Museum
For a fun, yet thrifty date that’s content rich, meet under the dome at the High Street Kensington tube station and grab a piled-high focaccia from Casa Crunchy. Each of its traditional Italian flatbread ‘schiacciate’ sandwiches is loaded with locally sourced Italian ingredients – from super-tasty cured meats and regional cheeses to fresh vegetables and premium olive oils. (https://casacrunchy.co.uk/ from £9.90).
Then enjoy a picnic in Holland Park’s beautiful Japanese Kyoto Garden and take in some design inspiration for free by exploring the past, present and future of design at the Design Museum. Launching in February is PLATFORM: Simone Brewster, the museum’s annual showcase on contemporary designers making an impact on the design stage – focused on London-based designer, educator and cultural change-maker Simone Brewster.
For a Valentine’s date with a touch of luxe, start with an afternoon tea fit for a queen in the architecturally stunning and light filled Orangery in Kensington Palace, where the ritual was born. Expect perfectly cut finger sandwiches, feather-light scones with Cornish clotted cream, patisserie and a classic Victoria Sponge; all served alongside the Palace’s signature organic tea (or a glass of English sparkling).
Wander hand in hand through Kensington Palace Gardens before taking in the latest exhibition inside the Palace. (https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/ Museum entry £20.60, afternoon tea from £60 pp).
As dusk falls, slip across to The Milestone Hotel’s Stables Bar for cocktails where the leather banquettes, low lighting and impeccable classics set the tone for the evening ahead. Finish starry-eyed at one of Kensington’s Michelin-awarded restaurants, to end the night on a high. At Krokodilos, chef Angelos Togias had reimagined Greek family recipes with modern finesse. Think spanakopita-inspired flatbreads, dolmadakia in silky avgolemono and an expertly curated Greek wine list. www.krokodilos.co.uk.
Alternatively, Kitchen W8 is that rare thing – a genuinely relaxed and friendly Michelin-starred neighbourhood restaurant offering seasonal dishes with a gorgeously modern twist but retaining some home cooked comforts www.kitchenw8.com
For more Valentine’s inspiration consult: https://highstreetkensington.co.uk
