Nestled in the heart of West London, Notting Hill is a vibrant and iconic neighbourhood that has captured the imagination of people worldwide. Known for its colourful houses, lively markets, and cultural diversity, Notting Hill is more than just a backdrop for the famous movie starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts.
In this article, we’ll delve into the various aspects of living in Notting Hill, from its unique characteristics, to education and schools, to the practicalities of everyday life.
Is Notting Hill a Good Place to Live?
Notting Hill is a wonderful place to call home. Safe, vibrant and brimming with character, Notting Hill is one of the most desirable areas in all of London. With world-class amenities and a bustling community, Notting Hill’s residents have everything they need on their doorstep.
While the cost of living may be a consideration, those who can afford to live here will be rewarded with an enviable standard of living.
Amenities in Notting Hill
Notting Hill boasts an array of amenities that cater to the needs and preferences of its residents. From trendy boutiques on Portobello Road to the eclectic food scene, there is no shortage of options for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The neighbourhood is also home to several parks, providing green spaces for relaxation and recreation.
Next, we will go into some more detail about what it is like to live in Notting Hill.
What Life is Like in Notting Hill
Living in Notting Hill is a unique experience that encapsulates the quintessential essence of London living. From its charming streets and vibrant markets to the cultural richness and diverse community, Notting Hill offers a lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of residents.
A Blend of Modern and Classic
Notting Hill effortlessly intertwines Victorian elegance with the dynamic pulse of contemporary urban living. Meandering through its tree-lined streets, residents are treated to a spectrum of colours emanating from the vibrant houses, each possessing its unique character. The neighbourhood’s aesthetic allure extends beyond its architectural charm to include a plethora of trendy boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafes, creating a harmonious blend of old-world allure and modern vibrancy.
The Charm of Notting Hill
Notting Hill exudes timeless charm with its pastel-hued streets adorned with quaint cafes and boutiques. Seamlessly marrying history with the contemporary, the neighbourhood offers a distinctive fusion of classic London charm and modern amenities, making it a magnet for those in search of a neighbourhood with a distinct personality.
Community Unity and Diversity
Renowned for its eclectic and diverse community, Notting Hill takes pride in fostering an inclusive atmosphere through various cultural events, epitomized by the iconic Notting Hill Carnival. Beyond the festivities, local initiatives, street parties, and neighbourhood gatherings contribute to an environment where everyone feels genuinely welcome.
Cultural Richness
Notting Hill serves as a cultural haven, inspiring artists, writers, and filmmakers across generations. The Electric Cinema on Portobello Road stands testament to the neighbourhood’s commitment to film and the arts. With bookshops, art galleries, and independent theatres dotting the landscape, residents are immersed in a wealth of cultural experiences.
Shopping Extravaganza
For those indulging in retail therapy, Notting Hill is a paradise. The world-renowned Portobello Road Market, brimming with vintage clothing and rare collectibles, complements the eclectic vibe of Westbourne Grove, lined with designer boutiques and chic stores, ensuring a diverse shopping experience for residents.
Culinary Delights
Reflecting the neighbourhood’s diversity, Notting Hill’s culinary scene is a delightful mosaic. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes, residents can savour a range of options. The tantalizing aromas from food stalls along Portobello Road during market days and charming cafes tucked away in quiet corners offer perfect settings for brunch or afternoon tea.
Parks and Green Spaces
Despite its urban vibe, Notting Hill provides residents with serene green spaces. Holland Park, with its landscaped gardens and resident peacocks, serves as a peaceful retreat, offering a welcome contrast to the energetic pace of London life.
Who Lives in Notting Hill?
Unsurprisingly, Notting Hill has been home to many celebrities and famous faces over the years. Notable residents have included Damon Albarn, Stella McCartney, Robbie Williams, Sir Elton John, David Cameron, George Osborne, Hugh Grant, Jennifer Lawrence, Lindsay Lohan and Harry Styles to name a few!
Here is some more information on the residents of Notting Hill:
- Population of 181,659
- 38.1% rent privately
- 28.5% of households are families
- 35.7% of residents are aged 25 to 44
The Different Areas in and Around Notting Hill
Notting Hill is not a monolithic entity; rather, it comprises distinct areas each with its own character. From the elegant streets of Ladbroke Grove to the trendy boutiques of Westbourne Grove, each pocket of Notting Hill offers a different flavour of urban living. Exploring these various areas can help prospective residents find the perfect fit for their preferences.
Ladbroke Grove
- Residential charm: Elegant Victorian and Edwardian houses create a peaceful environment.
- Community feels: Strong sense of community with local schools, parks, and amenities.
Notting Hill Gate
- Central location: Excellent transport links in a central area.
- Urban lifestyle: Bustling urban lifestyle with diverse shops and entertainment.
Westbourne Grove
- Fashionable living: Trendy atmosphere with high-end boutiques.
- Culinary scene: Vibrant culinary scene with diverse restaurants and cafes.
Portobello Road
- Eclectic lifestyle: Famous for vibrant Portobello Road Market.
- Cultural hub: Art galleries, music venues, and cultural events.
Golborne Road
- Diverse community: Multicultural area with independent shops.
- Independent shops: Unique shops and a range of dining options.
Holland Park
- Green spaces: Beautiful green spaces and upscale residential environment.
- Cultural attractions: Proximity to cultural attractions like Holland Park Opera.
Westbourne Green
- Riverside living: Waterside living along the Grand Union Canal.
- Regeneration: Blend of modern amenities with historic architecture.
- Proximity to Westbourne Grove: Access to trendy boutiques and upscale shops.
Kensal Green
- Bohemian vibe: Bohemian atmosphere with artistic elements.
- Green spaces: Queen’s Park for recreational activities.
- Transport links: Convenient transportation from Kensal Green station.
North Kensington
- Diverse community: Culturally diverse with a strong community.
- Portobello market access: Easy access to Portobello Road Market.
- Social initiatives: Community initiatives reflecting inclusivity.
Transport Links in Notting Hill
Notting Hill benefits from excellent transport links, which makes it easy to reach most areas of London, as well as further afield. The accessibility of the area contributes to the overall convenience of living in Notting Hill.
Driving
Motorists will find convenience in the close proximity of both the A3220 and the A40, commonly referred to as the Westway. The Westway offers an optimal exit from London, linking with the M25 and the M40 to the east, providing access to the likes of the Chilterns, Oxford, and extending northward to Birmingham. Heading south, the A3220 leads to Chelsea and Battersea.
The Underground and Rail
Three nearby Underground stations provide easy access to various parts of London.
Ladbroke Grove, on the Circle and Hammersmith & City lines, connects you to Paddington (5 minutes), King’s Cross (6 minutes), and Liverpool Street (24 minutes). Notting Hill Gate is a quicker route to Victoria (10 minutes) and Canon Street (21 minutes) via the Circle line. Ladbroke Grove also offers longer journeys to Hammersmith (8 minutes), where you can switch to the Piccadilly line for a 32-minute ride to Heathrow Airport.
Notting Hill Gate and Holland Park, served by the Central line, allow swift travel to Oxford Circus (8 minutes), Bank (16 minutes), and Stratford (27 minutes).
Nearby Shepherd’s Bush, on the Overground line, connects to Clapham Junction, West Hampstead, and mainline rail services to Wembley, Watford, Milton Keynes, Wandsworth, and Brighton.
Bus
TFL’s bus network provides dozens of services. You can easily catch buses which take you through Notting Hill, connecting to places such as Acton, Camden, South Kensington and Oxford Circus.
International Travel
For international travel, London City Airport and London Heathrow are both 11.1 miles away. Other nearby airports include London Gatwick (24.7 miles), London Luton (26.6 miles) and London Stansted (33.1 miles).
Property in Notting Hill
Property in Notting Hill commands high property prices, reflecting its desirability and sought-after status. Prospective homebuyers can explore a range of architectural styles, from classic townhouses to modern residences.
Property Prices in Notting Hill
As of January 2024, the average property price in Notting Hill over the last 12 months is £920,338.
Rental Prices in Notting Hill
As of January 2024, the average monthly rental price in Notting Hill over the last 12 months is £2,482.
Employment Opportunities in Notting Hill
Notting Hill is not only a residential haven but also a thriving hub for businesses. The neighbourhood hosts a mix of creative industries, startups, and established businesses. The proximity to central London also opens up a plethora of job opportunities in the city, making Notting Hill an attractive choice for professionals.
Notting Hill provides diverse employment opportunities across various sectors, including:
- Retail and hospitality: Opportunities abound in Portobello Road Market and Westbourne Grove for retail, food services, and tourism-related roles.
- Creative industries: Notting Hill’s vibrant arts scene offers positions in art galleries, studios, music venues, and entertainment spaces.
- Technology and start-ups: The area is a hub for tech start-ups, creating roles in software development, design, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
- Education and healthcare: Schools and healthcare facilities in Ladbroke Grove provide positions for educators, healthcare professionals, and administrative staff.
- Finance and business services: Notting Hill Gate’s commercial hub offers opportunities in finance, consulting, and professional services.
- Community and social services: North Kensington’s strong community spirit provides roles in social work, non-profit organizations, and community event management.
Education and Schools in Notting Hill
For families considering a move to Notting Hill, the quality of education is a crucial factor. Notting Hill and the surrounding areas are blessed with many superb schools catering to all ages. A sizeable number of educational establishments including primary schools, secondary schools, independent schools and academies are rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
Some of the most highly regarded schools in the area include:
- Chepstow House School (ages 2 to 11)
- Notting Hill Nursery School (ages 15 months to 5 years)
- Colville Primary School (ages 1 to 11)
- Avondale Park Primary School (ages 3 to 11)
- Thomas Jones Primary School (ages 3 to 11)
- Notting Hill Preparatory School (independent school, ages 4 to 13)
- Our Lady of Dolours RC Primary School (ages 3 to 11)
- Pembridge Hall School (independent girls’ school, ages 4 to 11)
- Southbank International School (ages 2 to 18)
- Kensington Aldridge Academy (ages 11 to 18)
- Westminster Academy (ages 11 to 18)
Main Attractions in Notting Hill
Beyond its visual charm, Notting Hill is home to numerous attractions.
Portobello Road Market
Notting Hill is famed for the Portobello Road Market, held every Saturday. As the UK’s largest antiques market, it’s a treasure trove for bargain hunters, offering fashion, books, records, furniture, and collectibles. The market stretches along Portobello Road, featuring talented buskers and diverse food options—from fresh produce to hot street food. Whether for a quick trip, a morning of bargain hunting, or a lunch date with friends, the market provides a vibrant experience.
Notting Hill Carnival
The iconic Notting Hill Carnival, held every August, showcases a vibrant parade with 50,000 performers in traditional costumes. The event is a celebration of Caribbean culture, and features lively bands, entertainers, pop-up stalls offering street food and cocktails, and activities for children, creating a festive atmosphere.
Museum of Brands
With 200 years of branding history, the Museum of Brands showcases household names like Persil and Cadbury, alongside forgotten brands. This unique museum is filled with vintage designs, classic adverts, and retro packaging, offering a trip down memory lane and a chance to see how your favourite brands used to look!
The Electric Cinema
Nestled in the heart of Portobello Road, the Electric Cinema is a historic gem in Notting Hill. One of the country’s oldest working cinemas, it blends historical charm with modern luxury. With plush velvet seats and a curated film selection, the Electric Cinema offers an intimate movie-watching experience. Its stylish bar adds to the allure, making it a much-loved destination for cinephiles.
Holland Park
Holland Park is a 54-acre oasis celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural offerings. With meticulously landscaped gardens, meandering pathways, and peacocks roaming freely, the park provides a tranquil escape. Cultural attractions like the Holland Park Opera and the Design Museum add to its allure, making it a versatile haven for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Other attractions in Notting Hill include:
- The Coronet Theatre
- Graffik Gallery
- Ladbroke Square
- Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground
- Kensington Gardens
Shopping in Notting Hill
Notting Hill’s shopping scene is as eclectic as its architecture. The area has been a fashion force to be reckoned with for decades and is regarded as one of London’s best shopping destinations.
Westbourne Grove is a haven for fashion enthusiasts, with designer boutiques and unique independent stores lining the streets. As mentioned, the world-famous Portobello Road Market is a treasure trove for vintage finds and one-of-a-kind items.
Eating and Drinking
Food enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice in Notting Hill. The neighbourhood is a culinary melting pot, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy cafes. Portobello Road’s food market is a gastronomic adventure, featuring diverse cuisines and local delicacies.
There are many fantastic restaurants in the area, covering an array of cuisines including Spanish, Modern European, Italian, Japanese and, of course, fine dining.
Here are some of the most highly regarded restaurants in the area:
- Granger and Co. Notting Hill
- Ottolenghi Notting Hill
- Gold
- Chicken Shop
- The Ledbury
- La Bodega Portobello
- Core by Clare Smyth
The Duke of Wellington had a cameo in the film Notting Hill and was where Adele signed her first recording contract. While it may not be a star-studded affair when you drop by, you’ll discover a charming traditional pub adorned with cosy seating and an open lounge. Also, you can choose from classic British dishes from a seasonal menu crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Leisure in Notting Hill
Kensington Leisure Centre boasts a 130-station gym with cutting-edge technology, three swimming pools, an eight-court sports hall, two squash courts, and a soft play centre for youngsters. After your workout, relax at the on-site spa, offering express treatments like massages and facials.
Other gyms and leisure centres in the area include BodyWorksWest, Harbour Club, Virgin Active Notting Hill and Anytime Fitness White City.
For a more unique experience, explore London’s largest climbing wall at The Westway Sports and Fitness Centre. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned climber, the wall’s vast size and 350 routes provide continuous challenges.
There are also two highly regarded spas in the area providing ultimate relaxation: Pacifica Day Spa and Savana Urban Spa.
Green Spaces and Outdoor Opportunities
Despite being in the heart of London, Notting Hill is not devoid of green spaces. Holland Park, with its Kyoto Garden and peacocks, offers a tranquil retreat. Additionally, the neighbourhood’s proximity to the beautiful Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park allows residents to enjoy the serenity of nature without venturing far from home.
Is Notting Hill Safe?
Like any urban area, Notting Hill has its share of concerns regarding crime. However, the neighbourhood remains generally safe, and has a lower crime rate than many other areas in London.
Prospective residents should stay informed about crime rates and take standard precautions to ensure their safety. Make sure you keep valuables out of sight and ensure that your home is secure when you are away.
Crime and Safety in Notting Hill
Annual total crime rate is 131.2 per thousand, which is rated as a 5 out of 10 or medium crime level.
Cost of Living in Notting Hill
While Notting Hill is undoubtedly a desirable location, it comes with a price tag to match. The cost of living in Notting Hill is relatively high compared to other areas in London. Housing costs, in particular, can be steep, but the investment often comes with the promise of a unique and enriching lifestyle.
Broadband in Notting Hill
The average broadband speed in Notting Hill is 135 MBPS. You can expect to pay around £25 per month for broadband (costs vary depending on provider).
Pros and Cons of Notting Hill
In weighing these pros and cons, potential residents should carefully consider their lifestyle preferences, budgetary constraints, and tolerance for urban activity. While Notting Hill offers a unique and enriching living experience, it may not be an ideal fit for everyone.
Pros
- Cultural diversity: Notting Hill stands out for its diverse and inclusive community, offering residents the opportunity to experience a rich blend of cultures.
- Amenities: The neighbourhood is a haven for shoppers and food enthusiasts with high-end boutiques, an array of shopping options and various culinary delights.
- Community spirit: Notting Hill fosters a strong sense of community, creating a village-like atmosphere within the heart of London.
- Connectivity: Excellent transport links, including London Underground stations like Notting Hill Gate and Ladbroke Grove, ensure easy access to the rest of London.
- Architectural Allure: The neighbourhood’s picturesque Victorian houses, vibrant facades, and tree-lined streets contribute to a charming and aesthetically pleasing living environment.
Cons
- Cost of living: One of the significant drawbacks of living in Notting Hill is the high cost of living. Housing costs, in particular, can be steep.
- Crowded events: While events like the Notting Hill Carnival add vibrancy to the neighbourhood, they can also lead to crowded streets and potential inconveniences.
- Competitive real estate market: Securing desired housing in Notting Hill can be competitive due to the neighbourhood’s popularity. The real estate market moves swiftly, and prospective residents may encounter challenges in finding suitable accommodation within their budget.
- Limited green spaces: While Notting Hill has some green spaces, it may not offer the same abundance as more residential neighbourhoods. For those who prioritize expansive parks and nature reserves, the options within the immediate vicinity of Notting Hill may feel limited.
Other Areas in West London
While Notting Hill is undoubtedly captivating, West London offers a variety of neighbourhoods with distinct personalities. Areas like Kensington, Chelsea, and Fulham provide alternative options for those seeking a different flavour of urban living. Each area has its unique charm and amenities, allowing individuals to find the perfect fit for their lifestyle.
Are You Thinking About Moving to Notting Hill?
Living in Notting Hill is a unique and enriching experience that combines the best of London’s cultural scene with a distinct neighbourhood charm.
If you are looking to move to this highly desirable area, please get in touch with our Notting Hill estate agents.
