Chelsea
Creative - Charming - Chic
Chelsea's origins can be traced back to the 12th century when it was a small village on the Thames.
With a historic reputation as London's bohemian quarter, Chelsea has an extensive history of attracting artists, musicians and the literary supreme. Chelsea is indisputably one of London's most affluent, sought-after, fashionable neighbourhoods. It remains a desirable location for tourists and residents; Chelsea is home to financiers, film stars and a diverse mix of affluent residents.
Chelsea is bordered by South Kensington to the North, Knightsbridge to the North-East, Belgravia to the East, Fulham to the West and Battersea to the South.
Borough: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Chelsea has its fair share of royal history; the former Chelsea Manor was once a residence of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. The fashionable King's Road, built in 1694, was initially established as King Charles II's private road and used for travel between his palaces in St James' and Hampton Court. Sloane Street, renowned for its iconic brands and exclusivity, was initially created to link the King's Road to Knightsbridge for the first Earl Cadogan.
Chelsea's rich architecture comprises impressive Georgian, Regency, and Victorian homes. With a diverse range of property types, Chelsea has something for everyone: elegant townhouses, access to exclusive gated gardens, luxurious mansion blocks, and new-build riverside apartments.
Every square foot of Chelsea has remained in high demand for centuries. Amongst the prestigious addresses is an abundance of blue plaque-adorned properties showcasing its impressive history.
To - Dos
Sloane Square, Kings Road, Sloane Street and Fulham Road, the exclusive and chic hotspots of Chelsea, are a haven for independent and specialist shops. Here, you'll find a wealth of luxury furniture stores, galleries, antique shops, boutiques, cafés, restaurants and more, offering a unique and upscale shopping experience.
For foodies, the Saturday open-air fine food market at Duke of York Square is an unmissable experience. It's a vibrant showcase of area-sourced produce, meats, and a variety of artisanal goods, promising a delightful and diverse culinary adventure.
Chelsea houses the second oldest botanic garden in the UK, which is open to all.
Since its establishment in 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden has been a cornerstone in the advancement of medicinal, herbal, and useful plants. Its rich history and contributions make it a place of reverence and appreciation for all who visit.
The four-acre green space is home to over 4,500 species, making a meaningful contribution to the city's biodiversity whilst developing horticulture for humanity.
The famed annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show lasts five days in May. It is a crowd-pleasing floral display attended by members of the British Royal family and horticultural enthusiasts.
The captivating Chelsea Embankment Gardens is a collection of gardens that run alongside the Chelsea Embankment and the River Thames. Perfect for a walk or run, visitors enjoy some of the best views London has to offer.
