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London boasts of some of the finest shopping and entertainment venues apart from a myriad of world class attractions. And it is home to some of the trendiest real estate property in the world. The areas that surround Kensington and Chelsea is where some of the wealthiest individuals stay. Its streets like Kensington Church, Fulham, King’s and Pimlico are regarded as out of the most exclusive real estate addresses on the planet.
In fact some of the most prominent tourist attractions are just a short distance from the Kensington hotel London. Some of the greatest figures in British society have stayed in the Kensington area, with names like the Duke of Wellington and writers like Mark Twain and Bram Stoker to name just a few. Some of the prominent sights to visit in the Kensington area on a trip include…..
Hyde Park: Hyde Park is one of the city’s biggest green open areas and is spread across 350 acres. It was originally a deer park that served as the personal hunting ground of Henry VIII. It only became accessible to the public from 1635 onwards. One of its most prominent attractions is its famous Serpentine Lake that was built in 1730. The lake is now used by the public for boating and swimming. Another famous spot in the park is Speaker’s Corner, an open spot where people can express their opinions and views on any subject. Then there is Hyde Park Corner that is the busiest junction in the city that leads to Marble Arch and Oxford Street. Further down there are famous tourist attractions like Buckingham Palace, the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Royal Albert Hall. The country’s most well known equestrian centre Hyde Park Riding Stables is also houses in the park.
Kensington Palace and Gardens: Kensington Palace served as the private residence for the country’s monarchs from 1689 to 1760. The palace is still home to royal family members. George II was the last king to stay here and it was also where Queen Victoria was born and spent her formative years. Its State Apartments are a popular tourist attraction and houses a fine collection of royal portraits in the Queen’s Gallery, furniture, art and an exhibit of the coronation robes. Other interesting places to visit include the personal apartments of Queens Anne, Victoria and Mary, which also have a fascinating collection of their personal belongings.
Once you are done sightseeing a visit to the magnificent Kensington Gardens is a must. It was laid out as per the instructions of Queen Caroline in 1728, and featured fountains, a stunning sunken garden and a flower walk. Towards the southern end of the gardens are the Albert Memorial and Serpentine Gallery. The gallery houses a superb collection of contemporary art. Another notable attraction that lies nearby is Holland Park, which is especially beautiful to visit in spring when its tulips are in full bloom.
Leighton House Museum & 18 Stafford Terrace: Leighton House is known to be the sole purpose built house of its kind in the country. It was the residence of Lord Leighton who was a prominent artist of the Victorian era. Some of its top attractions include its ornate Arab Hall that has a magnificent golden dome, walls with stunning Islamic tiles and elaborate mosaics. Also worth exploring is Lord Leighton’s massive painting studio where he played host to the elite of British society which also included Queen Victoria.
Another place of interest to visit is 18 Stafford Terrace that was the residence of Edward Linley Sambourne, who was a cartoonist for Punch. The place is known for its striking aesthetic features that include Chinese, Middle Eastern and Japanese antiques and artefacts. You need to book your tour in advance as it is a popular spot for tourists.
The Roof Gardens: The Roof Gardens were created in 1938 on the sixth floor of a former department store and are spread over 1.5 acres. They are the second biggest roof gardens in Europe which houses a wide variety of exotic flora, a Spanish garden with palm trees and a fountain, an Elizabethan garden of herbs and flamingos. Just a short distance away is the Chelsea Physic Garden along the Thames River.
Chelsea Old Church: It was built in the 13th century and is famous for its superb More Chapel, which was restored in 1528 by Sir Thomas More. The two ornate renaissance capitals found on its arch were the creation of Holbein, who was a close friend of More’s. And it is alleged that King Henry VIII and Anne wedded secretly here, before their actual official marriage. And there are several fascinating monuments dating to the 17th and 18th century to be found here which include Paolo Bernini’s creation of Lady Jane Cheyne and also Sir Hans Sloane’s tomb.
The Royal Hospital & Chelsea Pensioners: The Royal Hospital was constructed more than three centuries ago for veteran soldiers and now serves as the home for the Chelsea Pensioners. It was built in 1682 on orders from Charles II. In fact there is a commemorative statue of Charles II in the Figure Court and every year on 29 May its Founder’s Day is celebrated. Within its main building there is its impressive Great Hall that’s panelled walls feature portraits and flags from military campaigns in France and America. Its famous chapel and gardens have been retained in their original state and its gardens are the venue for the famous annual Chelsea Flower Show.
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Source: pommietravels.com