South Kensington
Enlightened - Worldly - Victorian
Previously called the Alexander Estate after its nineteenth-century owners, South Kensington's land was primarily used for horticultural farming, supplying London with fruit and vegetables. This rich history continues today with the farmer's market every Saturday on Bute Street.
South Kensington's transformation began after the 1851 Great Exhibition, a showcase of Great Britain's imperial achievements in industry, commerce and culture, at the famous Crystal Palace in Hyde Park.
Arranged by Albert, Prince Consort to Queen Victoria, the Great Exhibition attracted 6 million visitors and sparked a residential, commercial, and cultural boom for the area. This boom resulted in many institutions dedicated to the arts and sciences today.
South Kensington remains a captivating London neighbourhood offering a uniquely enriching living experience with world-famous galleries, museums, and restaurants; London's museum quarter residents enjoy a lifestyle that cannot be found elsewhere.
Quiet residential streets and excellent proximity to schools appeal to families, while connectivity to business hubs lures many working professionals. Properties in South Kensington represent some of the most attractive homes in London's luxury property market.
Bordering Kensington, Knightsbridge and Chelsea, South Kensington is a refined neighbourhood known worldwide for its esteemed culture and elegant properties.
Borough: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
South Kensington is characteristed by tremendous Italiante stucco mansions for affluent Londoners eager to be close to this signficant and cultural and scientific centre.
The exceptional Victorian houses in South Kensington ooze grandeur and style. Many have been converted into luxury flats; these elegant and regal buildings dominate the local property market. Cornwall Gardens and Onslow Gardens are amongst the most desirable locations in South Kensington.
Red brick houses inspired or built by architect Richard Norman Shaw remain some of the most desirable properties. Purpose-built mansion blocks and charming mews houses tucked away on cobbled streets, as well as modern apartments, complete the architectural styles of South Kensington, creating a beautifully vibrant residential landscape.
To - Dos
There is something different to do on any given day of the year, whether exploring the museums and arts, wandering around independent shops and bookshops, chilling in the quiet greens and parks, or indulging in South Kensington's culinary brilliance.
South Kensington has an unbeatable range of free museums and beautiful open spaces, including Kensington Gardens.
Cultural attractions include the Natural History Museum, V&A, and the Royal Albert Hall, which are world-renowned attractions that draw international visitors all year round. Their varied calendars provide exhibitions, events, workshops, and performances, including the BBC proms, that will keep you returning for more.
The semi-pedestrianised Exhibition Road hosts brightly coloured café and restaurant canopies, filling the square and creating a Parisian feel. With its substantial French community, South Kensington is recognised as one of the only places to get a proper pastry.
