While January might be a drag, there is just under a month to go now until Valentine’s day, and if you want to plan the perfect romantic day with your partner, look no further than High Street Kensington. Serving up plenty of romance this February 14th, there’s plenty of ways to spend quality time together while also doing something a little different. Here are three ways to celebrate Valentines in High Street Kensington this year.
Take a Romantic Trip to High Street Kensington’s Hidden Spots
For those craving something a little off the radar, High Street Kensington reveals a quieter, more romantic side through its hidden haunts. Step inside Leighton House and lose yourself in the jewel-toned, mosaic-rich Arab Hall, a beautiful pocket of the city that feels worlds away from the everyday. Wander along Kensington Church Walk, where ivy-clad façades, antique shops and historic studios lend a timeless, village-like charm. Finish the evening tucked away at Maggie Jones, a cosy backstreet favourite known for its candlelit tables, hearty comfort dishes and discreet, old-world romance, perfect for a night out for two. Famed for hearty British cooking (including its famous fish pie), alongside the à la carte menu, there’s a special two-course lunch or dinner menu from £36.95 or three courses for £43.95. Alternatively, for those keen to introduce their Valentine with one of London’s most authentic and exciting Lebanese menus, Joseph’s Brasserie is a must.
Budget Savvy Brilliance
For a fun, yet thrifty date, meet under the dome at the High Street Kensington tube station and grab a piled-high focaccia from Casa Crunchy. Each of its traditional Italian flatbread ‘schiacciate’ sandwiches is loaded with locally sourced Italian ingredients – from super-tasty cured meats and regional cheeses to fresh vegetables and premium olive oils.
Then enjoy a picnic in Holland Park’s beautiful Japanese Kyoto Garden and take in some design inspiration for free by exploring the past, present and future of design at the Design Museum. Launching in February is PLATFORM: Simone Brewster, the museum’s annual showcase on contemporary designers making an impact on the design stage – focused on London-based designer, educator and cultural change-maker Simone Brewster. Finish your date with a stroll around Kyoto Gardens, a real hidden gem.
A Touch of Luxe
For a Valentine’s date with a touch of luxe, start with an afternoon tea fit for a queen in the architecturally stunning and light filled Orangery in Kensington Palace, where the ritual was born. Expect perfectly cut finger sandwiches, feather-light scones with Cornish clotted cream, patisserie and a classic Victoria Sponge; all served alongside the Palace’s signature organic tea (or a glass of English sparkling).
Wander hand in hand through Kensington Palace Gardens before taking in the latest exhibition inside the Palace. Museum entry £20.60, afternoon tea from £60 pp.
As dusk falls, slip across to The Milestone Hotel’s Stables Bar for cocktails where the leather banquettes, low lighting and impeccable classics set the tone for the evening ahead. Finish starry-eyed at one of Kensington’s Michelin-awarded restaurants, to end the night on a high. At Krokodilos, chef Angelos Togias had reimagined Greek family recipes with modern finesse. Think spanakopita-inspired flatbreads, dolmadakia in silky avgolemono and an expertly curated Greek wine list. Alternatively, Kitchen W8 is that rare thing – a genuinely relaxed and friendly Michelin-starred neighbourhood restaurant offering seasonal dishes with a gorgeously modern twist but retaining some home cooked comforts.
What are some of your favourite in these ways to celebrate Valentines in High Street Kensington? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
