How long does it take to walk through Notting Hill?

A comprehensive neighborhood stroll usually takes between 90 and 120 minutes. The total distance is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km), but you should allow extra time for browsing the market stalls and taking photos.

Is Portobello Road Market open every day?

The street has shops and some stalls open daily, but the main antique market only happens on Saturdays. Fridays are also busy with vintage clothing and food, while Sundays are generally quiet with most market stalls closed.

Where is the blue door from the movie Notting Hill?

The famous 'Blue Door' is located at 280 Westbourne Park Road. It is just a short detour from Portobello Road and is a popular stop for fans of the 1999 film starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant.

Can I see the Love Actually house in Notting Hill?

Yes, the pink house where Mark (Andrew Lincoln) uses cue cards to declare his love is located in Saint Lukes Mews. It is a public street, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the residents' privacy.

Is Notting Hill safe to walk around?

Yes, Notting Hill is a safe, affluent residential and commercial area. Like any popular destination, be mindful of pickpockets during the crowded Saturday market on Portobello Road.

What is the best time of day to visit Notting Hill?

For photography, arrive by 9:00 AM on a weekday to enjoy the empty streets. For the full market atmosphere, Saturday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM is the peak time to experience the hustle and bustle.

Are there many hills on this walking route?

The route is relatively flat with only very gentle inclines. The name 'Notting Hill' refers to the historical topography, but the walk from Ladbroke Grove to Notting Hill Gate is easy and accessible for most fitness levels.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Notting Hill is perhaps London’s most photogenic neighborhood, a kaleidoscope of pastel-hued townhouses, hidden cobblestone mews, and a world-famous antique market. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the heart of the W11 postcode at your own pace, moving beyond the cinematic fame of the area to discover its rich social history and architectural charm. From the bustling energy of the Portobello Road Market to the quiet, flower-draped corners of Saint Lukes Mews, this neighborhood stroll captures the essence of West London’s bohemian spirit. Historically, Notting Hill has transformed from a 19th-century pottery and pig-farming district into a hub of Caribbean culture and later a playground for the creative elite. As you follow this walking route, you will see how these layers of history coexist. You will encounter the strikingly saturated colors of Lancaster Road, explore the evolution of consumer culture at the Museum of Brands, and browse the eclectic treasures at Alice’s, a shop that feels like a portal to another era. This walking tour London offers is designed for those who love photography and independent exploration. Whether you are looking for the iconic pink house from a beloved romantic comedy or want to understand the area’s transition from a working-class enclave to a global fashion icon, this self-guided adventure provides the context you need. The route is flexible, allowing you to linger over a flat white at a local café or spend extra time hunting for vintage vinyl. By the time you reach Notting Hill Gate, you will have experienced the vibrant pulse and the serene side streets that make this area a perennial favorite for locals and travelers alike. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Wander through the world-famous Portobello Road Market

Photograph the iconic pink house in Saint Lukes Mews

See the most vibrant, multi-colored houses on Lancaster Road

Browse the quirky antiques at the red-fronted Alice’s

Discover consumer history at the Museum of Brands

Spot filming locations from 'Love Actually' and 'Paddington'

Tour Stops (6)

Portobello Road Market

Welcome to one of the most famous street markets in the world. Portobello Road stretches for nearly a mile, and while it is known today for its antiques and fashion, it began in the 19th century as a simple fresh food market. As you walk along, notice how the character of the street changes. The southern end is the heart of the antique trade, where silver, vintage watches, and curiosities spill onto the sidewalks. Further north, the market transitions into fresh produce, household goods, and eventually vintage clothing under the Westway flyover. The energy here is electric, especially on Saturdays, but the colorful shopfronts are a permanent fixture of this historic neighborhood stroll.

Saint Lukes Mews

Tucked away from the main road, Saint Lukes Mews is a masterclass in London’s 'mews' architecture. Originally built as stable blocks for the grand houses nearby, these buildings have been converted into some of the city's most desirable residences. This specific mews is a favorite for photography enthusiasts due to its cobblestones and beautifully maintained facades. Look for the famous pink house, which served as a backdrop in the film 'Love Actually.' While exploring, please remember that these are private homes; the charm of the mews lies in its quiet, residential atmosphere. The wrought-iron balconies and climbing plants make it one of the most peaceful spots on this walking route.

Lancaster Road

If you are looking for the most intensely colored houses in London, you have arrived at the right place. Unlike the soft pastels found elsewhere in Notting Hill, the townhouses on Lancaster Road are painted in bold, saturated shades of purple, royal blue, and bright yellow. This street is a testament to the neighborhood's vibrant personality. The architecture here is typical of the Victorian era, but the daring color choices are a more modern tradition that has made this a destination for street photography. It is a perfect example of how Notting Hill residents express their individuality through their homes, creating a visual feast for anyone on a self-guided walk.

Museum of Brands

This stop offers a different kind of visual history. The Museum of Brands houses the Robert Opie Collection, featuring over 12,000 items that track the evolution of consumer culture. As you walk through the 'Time Tunnel,' you will see how packaging, advertising, and branding have changed from the Victorian era to the present day. It is a nostalgic journey through household names, toys, and travel posters. This museum provides a fascinating cultural context to the shopping culture you see outside on Portobello Road. Please note that exhibitions may change, so there is often something new to discover regarding the history of design and social change.

Alice's

With its unmistakable bright red storefront and an eclectic array of items spilling out onto the pavement, Alice's is an antique shop that has become a local landmark. Established in 1887, it survived the changing tides of the neighborhood to become one of its most recognizable symbols. Film fans might recognize it from the 'Paddington' movies, where it served as the inspiration for Mr. Gruber’s antique shop. Even if you aren't in the market for a vintage birdcage or a Victorian sign, the exterior is a must-see. It captures the whimsical, cluttered, and historical charm that defines the Portobello antique district.

Notting Hill Gate

Your walk concludes at Notting Hill Gate, a major crossroads that has served as a gateway to West London for centuries. The name refers to a physical toll gate that stood here until the mid-19th century. Today, it is a bustling urban hub that connects the quiet residential streets you just explored with the rest of the city. The area around the station is home to classic cinemas, independent bookshops, and a wide variety of restaurants. It is the perfect place to grab a meal or hop on the tube to your next destination, having experienced the full spectrum of Notting Hill’s charm, from its quiet mews to its vibrant markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk focusing on Portobello Road, Saint Lukes Mews, and Lancaster Road is ideal. These spots offer a mix of pastel houses, cobblestones, and vibrant townhouses that are perfect for Instagram and street photography.