Here’s information on some more of Kensington & Chelsea’s favourite sites.
Albert Memorial
Kensington Gardens, SW7
Underground: High Street Kensington or Gloucester Road
Directly opposite the Royal Albert Hall (see below), this memorial was erected in 1872 in memory of Prince Albert, the German husband of Queen Victoria, following his death in 1861. Wonderfully restored in 1999, this monument is simply stunning – and definitely worth a visit.
Royal Albert Hall
Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP
Underground: High Street Kensington or Gloucester Road
Website: www.royalalberthall.com
Also built in memory of Prince Albert (who had wished for a building that could be used to promote arts and sciences), the Royal Albert Hall has been in continuous use since it opened in 1871. A very fine building in itself, it is of course the venue for numerous musical and other events (a seniors’ tennis tournament is held every December with some tennis legends!) throughout the year – check their website for full listings.
Harrods
87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL
Underground: Knightsbridge
Website: www.harrods.com/harrodsstore
Okay, so Harrods is obviously (a rather high-class and pricey) department store – but that’s not to say that you can’t head in and take a look at its wonderful interior (and even exterior!) as it has a number of wonderful rooms and displays. Highlights include the Rooms of Luxury, the Egyptian Hall, and the amazing Food Hall; be sure to stop for a tea or coffee at one of the many cafes.
Peter Pan Statue
by the Long Water, Kensington Gardens
Underground: Lancaster Gate
Website: Peter Pan Statue from Royal Parks
Unveiled in 1912 following a commission by Peter Pan author J M Barrie himself, this statue draws a considerable amount of visitors, delighted of a chance to see Peter Pan in such a form. In fact, the statue stands beside a spot on the Long Water, which is mentioned in very first Peter Pan story.
Blue Plaques
Everywhere!
Useful website: www.plaqueguide.com
As you walk through the area (as well as the rest of London) you may notice a number of buildings that have a blue plaque attached to their exterior. The plaques signify that a notable person lived or worked in that building; the scheme is thought to be the oldest of its kind in the world. (It was founded in 1866.) Use the website above to guide you to some of the blue plaques in the area, but also just keep your eye out on buildings as you walk past!