Notting Hill

The basics

Notting Hill is one of London's most popular and picturesque neighborhoods, known for its striking Victorian terrace houses, vibrant markets, charming pubs, and diverse dining scene. The area is also home to a thriving Caribbean community.

The 1999 romantic comedy Notting Hill, starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, solidified the neighborhood’s international fame. Today, visitors flock to the area to see iconic filming locations, such as the antiques market on Portobello Road and the famous blue door at 280 Westbourne Park Road. In addition to its cinematic history, the community is filled with historic movie theaters, centuries-old pubs, and quirky museums. These attractions contribute to its charm, making it a must-see for tourists.

Notting Hill tours vary in options from London hop-on hop-off bus tours that provide neighborhood overviews to themed walking tours (from antique crawls to music-themed itineraries) that spotlight different aspects of the area. Or, set out to discover the quaint area on your own.

Things to know before you go

• A number of famous figures once lived in Notting Hill, ranging from George Orwell to Blur’s Damon Albarn.

• Quirky area highlights include the Museum of Brands, Packaging, and Advertising, the flower-covered Churchill Arms pub, and the plushly appointed Electric Cinema.

• The most popular Portobello Road market days are Fridays and Saturdays; it’s less crowded during the week.

• Stroll down Holland Park Avenue to get to Holland Park, one of London's most beautiful green spaces.

How to get there

Notting Hill is served by several different Tube stations, including Notting Hill Gate (accessible by the Circle and District lines as well as the Central line) and Ladbroke Grove (on the Circle and Hammersmith & City lines). Numerous bus routes traverse the area, including the 27, 28, 31, 52, 70, 94, 148, 328, and 452. It’s also accessible on foot, by car, or by bike.

When to get there

Yes! It is worth visiting all year round. If you wish to browse the antique stalls on Portobello Road, avoid visiting on Sundays when the market is closed. The area comes alive at the end of August, buzzing with energy as the Notting Hill Carnival takes center stage.

The Notting Hill Carnival

Held annually on the holiday weekend at the end of August, the Notting Hill Carnival has been a London tradition since 1966. Now among the largest such festivals in Europe, it’s a thrilling celebration of Caribbean music, costumes, food, and culture.

Ways to explore

Fans of the movie starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts can join guided tours that stop at filming locations, such as the antiques market on Portobello Road and the famous blue door at 280 Westbourne Park Road. Other options include London hop-on hop-off bus tours that provide neighborhood overviews or themed walking tours—from antique crawls to music-themed itineraries—that spotlight different aspects of the area. Private black taxi tours cover Notting Hill alongside other districts, while self-guided smartphone tours are an option to explore at your own pace.

Accessibility

Notting Hill Gate station does not have lifts or step-free access. The nearest station with step-free access is Paddington.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Cash for market traders, bottled water, camera

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, casual clothes, layers

Not allowed

Drones, littering, smoking in restaurants

Amenities

ATMs, restaurants, bars, shops

Address

Notting Hill is located in West London, and the nearest tube stations are Notting Hill Gate and Ladbroke Grove. It is easily reached from central areas by public transport, on foot, or with a guided tour.

Driving

While it’s possible to drive to Notting Hill, the area can get very congested with traffic and pedestrians alike, and parking spaces are often limited. Public transport should be your go-to option.

Public transportation

Most visitors reach Notting Hill via the tube. You can take the Circle, District, or Central lines to Notting Hill Gate, or head to Ladbroke Grove via the Circle or Hammersmith & City lines. Bus routes 7, 23, and 52 serve the area.

Best times to visit

Visit in the morning to avoid the peak afternoon crowds, especially at the busy market stalls and brunch spots.

Best days to visit

Fridays and Saturdays tend to be busiest, especially on Portobello Road. If you can come on weekdays instead, that’s your best bet.

Best months to visit

Notting Hill is fun year-round, but the summer months of July and August—albeit crowded—have great weather for outdoor dining. For a quieter experience, consider June or September.

Special events

One of the biggest events in Notting Hill is the annual Notting Hill Carnival, usually held in August. It celebrates Caribbean culture with live music, parades, street food, and costumes.