Lady’s Notting Hill Guide

It’s August. Things are slowing down in offices all over London, people are going on their annual vacations (er, holidays), and London is finally warming up after an abysmal start to the summer. The recent heatwave has prompted me to spend more time outdoors, and one of the places I’ve frequented is Notting Hill.

Notting Hill

Most Americans know this west London neighborhood from the film of the same name. I have to admit that when I first moved to London, I was excited when I stumbled upon the bookshop that featured in the Notting Hill movie.

While I never looked for the house with the blue door, I’ve since gotten to know the neighborhood as much more than just a setting for a popular romantic comedy.

One of my favorite things to do in Notting Hill is visit the famous Portobello Road Market. Weaving my way through throngs of people, I love to discover tiny trinkets and long-forgotten mementos from the past.

I’m fascinated when I come across a table topped with thousands of old magnifying glasses, or a vendor selling tiny toy soldiers from long ago wars.

The Notting Hill farmers’ market is also a favorite. I usually pass by it on my way to brunch at places like the Electric Diner.

The mountains of kale, cabbage, carrots, peaches, and pears help me work up an appetite before I tuck into my eggs Benedict.

Speaking of food, there are several other restaurants I love in Notting Hill.

I recently went to dinner at The Ledbury, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant with an entrance so discreet you could pass by every day and not notice it.

The Hampshire buffalo milk curd with Saint-Nectaire, truffle toast, and grilled onion broth was delicious. The salmon poached in olive oil with blood orange, crab, and green asparagus on toast also made for an unforgettable dish.

On the more casual end, I love popping into Gail’s for pastries and tea. The Oak and The Cow are great for pub food, too.

Speaking of pubs, the Notting Hill nightlife scene is also one of my favorites in London. From pints at The Westbourne and The Walmer Castle to cocktails at the retro-themed Trailer Happiness, there’s never a shortage of fun places to go out.

If the warm weather in London continues through the rest of August, I’m sure I’ll be spending more time in Notting Hill. And with the famous Notting Hill Carnival taking place at the end of the month, I certainly hope it will.

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