Visiting Kensington: Things to Do, See and Eat
Kensington is one of London’s most rewarding neighbourhoods, combining grand architecture, celebrated museums, leafy parks and some of the capital’s best-known cultural venues. From Kensington Palace and the Design Museum to Holland Park, Olympia London and the Royal Albert Hall, there is plenty to explore within a relatively small area.
Il Portico has been part of Kensington High Street since the 1960s. This local guide brings together our recommendations for places to visit, things to do and where to eat during your visit—whether you are here for an exhibition, a concert, an afternoon in the park or simply exploring the neighbourhood.
What to See and Do in Kensington
The Royal Albert Hall
The Royal Albert Hall is one of West London’s great cultural landmarks, welcoming visitors for concerts, classical music, comedy and the annual BBC Proms. If you are attending a performance, read our guide to finding an Italian restaurant near the Royal Albert Hall, including the walking route to Il Portico and advice for planning a relaxed pre-performance meal.
Olympia London and British Airways ARC
Olympia London is one of the capital’s best-known exhibition and entertainment destinations, hosting trade shows, conferences, public exhibitions and live events throughout the year. The complex is now also home to British Airways ARC, a purpose-built 3,800-capacity venue for live music and entertainment. If you are visiting Olympia for an exhibition or concert, see our walking directions from Olympia London to Il Portico and allow time for lunch or dinner before or after the event. For pre-show dining, see our guide to finding an Italian restaurant near British Airways ARC.
Holland Park
Holland Park offers woodland paths, formal gardens and the peaceful Kyoto Garden, making it a lovely place to escape the bustle of Kensington High Street. During the summer, it is also home to Opera Holland Park. Il Portico provides pre-ordered Holland Park picnic hampers for performances, or you can follow our walking directions from Holland Park to Il Portico for lunch or dinner.
Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens
Kensington Palace stands within Kensington Gardens and is one of the area’s most important historic landmarks. The palace was the birthplace of Queen Victoria, while the surrounding gardens provide a beautiful route for walking through this part of London. After visiting the palace or gardens, continue along Kensington High Street for a relaxed Italian lunch or dinner at Il Portico.
The Design Museum
Located on Kensington High Street, the Design Museum is devoted to contemporary design in its many forms, with exhibitions exploring how design shapes the world around us. After visiting the museum, Il Portico is nearby for a relaxed Italian lunch or dinner. Simply cross Kensington High Street and turn right.
Leighton House
Leighton House is the former home and studio of Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton. Its remarkable interiors and collections make it one of the area’s most distinctive cultural attractions. After your visit, follow our walking directions from Leighton House to Il Portico for lunch or dinner on Kensington High Street.
Where to Eat in Kensington
After exploring the area, join us at Il Portico at 277 Kensington High Street. Opened by Pino Chiavarini in 1967 and still run by the same family, Il Portico serves regional Italian cooking, handmade pasta and dishes rooted in Emilia-Romagna. Whether you are planning lunch during a day of sightseeing or dinner before a concert, exhibition or performance, we would be delighted to welcome you.