With pretty tree-lined streets, stately Victorian buildings, elegant mews and tranquil garden squares, Kensington – or South Ken as it’s affectionally known – and the Museum Quarter are among the most picturesque and culturally rich areas of the capital.
Perfect for a family day out, this west London neighbourhood offers everything from dinosaurs and design to royal history, stylish shopping and scenic green spaces.
Cultural Institutions
Though one of London’s most exclusive postcodes, Kensington is home to some of the capital’s best (and free) museums. Hop off the Tube at South Kensington and head down Exhibition Road, where world-class cultural venues sit side by side.
At the V&A South Kensington, this month’s highlight is Cartier – a major exhibition charting the evolution of the jewellery house, featuring more than 350 precious objects. It’s just one of many exhibitions on show and free entry makes it an accessible and inspiring family visit.
Across the road, the Natural History Museum invites families to journey through 4.5 billion years of natural wonders. Kids can marvel at dinosaurs, walk beneath a towering blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall, and touch pieces of the Moon and Mars in the new Space exhibition. Hands-on exhibits make it ideal for curious minds.
Strolling further along Exhibition Road, The Albert Memorial rises dramatically opposite the Royal Albert Hall – home to the BBC Proms until 13 September. This annual classical music festival includes family-friendly performances, and you can also tour the hall’s grand interiors, including the Royal Retiring Room and artists’ dressing rooms. Round off your visit with an elegant afternoon tea at Coda by Éric Chavot or in the scenic Verdi Italian Kitchen overlooking Kensington Gardens.
Further west along Kensington High Street, you’ll find the Design Museum, where innovative exhibitions explore architecture, fashion and product design. Many are hands-on and perfect for children and teens.
Just a short walk away, in the prestigious neighbourhood of Holland Park, are Leighton House and Sambourne House. Once homes to the Victorian artists Linley Sambourne and Frederic, Lord Leighton, these beautifully preserved houses with studio space offer a unique glimpse into 19th-century creativity and family life. Joint tickets let you explore both sites in one visit.
Another cultural gem is Japan House London, located on Kensington High Street. Featuring minimalist interiors, a programme of free exhibitions, a curated shop and the stylish Akira restaurant, it offers a serene and enriching experience that introduces children and adults to the diversity of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture.
The Great Outdoors
After exploring the boutiques of Kensington High Street or the antique shops on Kensington Church Street, escape to one of the area’s many peaceful garden squares. While most are private, some historic ones are visible from the street. Kensington Square, dating back to 1692,
is just steps from the High Street, while Onslow Square – once frequented by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland author Lewis Carroll – is tucked away in South Kensington.
For the area’s biggest green space, head to Holland Park. It’s home to the impeccably manicured Kyoto Garden, gifted by the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1991, as well as an adventure playground and open lawns that are perfect for family games or picnics.
Next door is Kensington Gardens, a 265-acre Royal Park featuring the Serpentine Galleries, Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground and Kensington Palace – a working royal residence where you can explore royal history and Princess Diana’s legacy through child-friendly exhibitions. Don’t miss the serene Italian Gardens, said to have been created by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria.
Food For Thought
Kensington offers something for every taste and family size. Gems include The Churchill Arms – famous for its floral displays and tasty Thai food inside a cosy pub setting – and The Hunter’s Moon, a rustic, welcoming pub known for its award-winning Scotch eggs and modern British fare.
If you’re in Holland Park, the Holland Park Café is perfect for casual, kid-friendly dining with picnic tables and space to roam nearby. For more global flavours, Dishoom Kensington is inspired by Bombay cafés. It’s great for families with its flavourful Indian small plates and warm atmosphere. Min Jiang, meanwhile, located on the 10th floor of the Royal Garden Hotel, serves superb Chinese dishes (its wood-fired Beijing duck is legendary) with sweeping views of Hyde Park. For a quick and easy bite, Marugame Udon in Kensington Arcade is ideal for a casual, customisable noodle meal just steps from the Tube. Cold udon dishes are available here as well, in case it’s too hot outside for steaming broth.
Kensington, South Kensington and the Museum Quarter offer the perfect mix of culture, history, nature and food for families.
Whether you’re exploring world-class museums, enjoying green spaces or treating yourself to a quintessential afternoon tea, this west London gem is welcoming, walkable and filled with opportunities to learn, play and unwind – whatever your age, interests or budget.
