Notting Hill Guide

London is an amazing city which is both vast and small at the same time. Our capital is one of the largest cities in the world but is made up of small neighbourhoods which have a wonderfully local feel when you visit them.

One of the most famous is Notting Hill, where the film was shot and the shoppers' paradise of Portobello Market is found on a Saturday.

Another claim to fame is the annual Notting Hill Carnival, one of the largest street parties in the world, with crazy costumes, booming sound systems and a host of stalls selling Caribbean food.

Notting Hill is wonderful for strolling around, admiring the beautiful white stucco buildings, the colourful rows of houses and the garden squares that you'd love to step in to but sadly most are private, reserved for the lucky residents who have their own key.

You can visit the film locations such as the bookshop and the blue door or browse the enticing selection of designer shops, as well as some very tempting chocolate shops! The crowds descend on Saturdays and there is a real buzz about the place, but if you prefer a calmer feel, then do come another day and have some roads to yourself.

Another reason to love Notting Hill is the incredible choice of great bars and restaurants. On my list of favourite places you would find Montgomery Place with its jazzy feel (which features on our guide to London's best cocktail bars).

My favourite Notting Hill restaurants include The Commander with its clubby feel and occasional live music, and the eccentric Beach Blanket Babylon (pictured below), which is a visual delight with top cocktails.

My favourite Notting Hill restaurants are Electric Brasserie on a Saturday afternoon when it's buzzing with market visitors, serving a great brunch range as well as its wonderful seafood platter.

The Ledbury is my choice when I'm in need of Michelin Star cuisine and El Pirata de Tapas for top Spanish bites.

On a sunny day there are many places sit out to enjoy a coffee, a bite to eat or a glass of wine but one of the best is the Tabernacle's courtyard. There are so many good bars and restaurants the list could go on so you'll just have to visit and chose one yourself!

Other restaurants to consider include Portobello House and Colchis.

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