The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Kensington In Autumn

One of the most beautiful districts in the British capital, Kensington takes on a new level of charm in October and November. This part of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience the magic of London in autumn, from fabulous events, activities, and local traditions to famous attractions and vibrant nightlife. Use our ultimate guide to plan an unforgettable stay. Find out about:

• Things to do in autumn
• Outdoor activities to do in autumn
• Indoor things to do in Kensington
• Kensington nightlife in autumn
• What can’t you do in autumn
• Where to stay in Kensington

Things to Do in Autumn

Staying in London during October and November, you’ll discover the city is a little quieter with fewer tourists

BFI London Film Festival - every October: London’s finest film festival kicks off with the premiere of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical and continues with screenings, events, galas, and film-related happenings around the city.

Frieze London - every October: Indulge in some window shopping or make a few purchases at this highly anticipated event that brings together 160 of the world’s contemporary art galleries under one roof.

Hieroglyphs at the British Museum - From 13 October: This major immersive exhibition celebrates the 200^th anniversary of the deciphering of hieroglyphs. Marvel at the Rosetta Stone and important artefacts on loan from around the world.

Bonfire Night - On and around 5 November: An inescapable feature of London in autumn, Bonfire Night sees the sky illuminated by countless fireworks and pyrotechnical displays. Many garden squares in Kensington organise events, but if you want something with a lot more wow factor, head to Battersea Park or Crystal Palace.

The Lord Mayor’s Show - 12 November: One of the traditional autumn activities in London, the Lord Mayor’s Show is a historic parade that offers pageantry, pomp and ceremony, and a party atmosphere.

Remembrance Day - 11-13 November: Marches, festivals and services of remembrance, wreath-laying, and other events take place around the city to commemorate those who gave their lives in two world wars.

The View from the Shard: Enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of London from floors 69-72 of the capital’s tallest tower. Be sure to check that the attraction is open before going.

Westminster Abbey: Founded in AD 960, this world-famous church has been the site of every coronation since 1066, as well as 16 royal weddings and the burials of numerous kings, queens, nobles, and historical celebrities. The abbey is one of the best places to visit in autumn in London.

 

Outdoor Activities to Do in Autumn

Some days in London throughout autumn are perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. A few of our favourites are:

Stroll along Kynance Mews: Originally stables and now one of the city’s most coveted places to live, Kynance Mews offers one of the best autumnal walks in London. Stroll along the cobbled street admiring the fiery foliage that veils archways and walls.

See the leaves in Kensington Gardens: The former Kensington Palace gardens and the adjoining Hyde Park are a riot of autumn colours in October and November. If you want more space than Kynance Mews (or the street whets your appetite for more), wander the paths that criss-cross both spaces. Consider popping into the Serpentine Galleries for a moment’s respite while you admire the art on display.

Head to Holland Park’s Japanese Garden: See nature idealised at this beautiful time of year at Holland Park’s Japanese-style Kyoto Garden.

Watch football games: Indulge in that oh-so-British pastime of taking in one or more football matches at Stamford Bridge stadium. A few upcoming football autumn events in London include Chelsea vs Manchester United on 22 October, Chelsea vs Dinamo Zagreb on 2 November, and Chelsea vs Arsenal on 6 November.

Get excited about the festive season with Christmas at Kew - From 16 November: Wander through tunnels of light and a fire garden, marvel at larger-than-life illuminations, be entranced by dancing lakeside reflections, and say hello to Father Christmas. Enjoy delicious seasonal delights and winter warmers from independent street food vendors at Christmas at Kew Gardens.

Indoor Things to Do in Kensington

Some October and November days are perfect for spending as much time indoors as possible. Take a look at these places to visit this autumn in London that let you do exactly that:

Head to the best indoor markets: London’s open-air markets are justifiably famous, but the best indoor markets are just as good. Browse and shop to your heart’s content at Covent Garden Apple Market, Camden Lock Market, and Brixton Village Market.

Mosey round the top shopping areas: Kensington is wonderfully close to some of the capital’s most prestigious shopping areas. Even if browsing is all you do, be sure to visit Knightsbridge (where you’ll find Harrods and Harvey Nichols), Mayfair, Carnaby Street, Sloane Street and Sloane Square, Bond Street, Regent Street, Oxford Street, and Seven Dials.

Explore London’s museums: London’s major museums are among the best in the world and visiting them in autumn means you won’t face the loud, pushy crowds of summer tourists. Make your way to the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the Design Museum, the Museum of London, and the British Museum.

Be entertained at great live music venues: If you’re a fan of live music, catch a gig or two at some of the capital’s best venues. You’re sure to find sounds to soothe and satisfy you at places such as the Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington, Under the Bridge in Fulham, the Troubadour in Kensington, Piano in Kensington, Nell’s in Kensington, Bar 190 in Queen’s Gate, 606 Club in Chelsea, and the 100 Club in Oxford Street.

Kensington Nightlife in Autumn

You never need to worry about a lack of nightlife in London in autumn. In addition to restaurants and bars, there are theatres and cinemas to choose from. What’s more, the season has the added benefit of London Lates, which sees numerous attractions stay open until 9pm at least once a week.

There’s no difference in the closing hours of restaurants and bars at this time of year compared to summer. What is different is that most venues are slightly less packed, making for an altogether more pleasant experience. Most restaurants close between 10pm and 11pm, and most bars close between 11pm and 1am, while clubs stay open until the early hours.

Enjoying dinner and a show is one of the best ways to spend an evening in London, and there’s no shortage of theatres with excellent productions in the West End and beyond. Take in the Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre, the Crucible at the National Theatre, Orlando at Garrick Theatre, or Marvellous at the brand-new West End theatre, @sohoplace.

It's best to have dinner before heading to the theatre, as most evening performances start at 7.30pm. A few establishments where you can spoil yourself with fantastic dining include Cord by Le Cordon Bleu (St Paul’s), Honey and Co (Bloomsbury), Ikoyi (St James’s), Jikoni (Marylebone), Bibi (Mayfair), Petersham Nurseries (Covent Garden), Evelyn’s Table (Soho), Fallow St James (Mayfair), the Cadogan Arms (Kensington), Five Fields (Kensington), Daphne’s (Chelsea), and Bibendum (Chelsea). If bars and clubs are what you’re looking for, head to areas such as Soho, Chelsea, Covent Garden, Kensington, and Mayfair.

What Can’t You Do in Autumn

The colder weather in London in autumn means there are a few activities you won’t be able to enjoy, either because they’ve closed for autumn and winter, or because the weather makes them unenjoyable. For example, picnicking in the park isn’t the best idea (it’s not forbidden, but you probably won’t have much fun if it’s raining). Some of the activities and other events that close include open water swimming in the Thames, the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, the Garden Museum’s Secret Garden exhibition, London’s outdoor cinemas, and Somerset House’s Summer Series.

Where to Stay in Kensington

With so much on offer in London throughout autumn, from the BFI Film Festival, London Cocktail Week, the Lord Mayor’s Show, and other events and happenings, such as Black History Month, major exhibitions, theatres new and old, fantastic attractions and things to do. Staying in Kensington places you comfortably close to the heart of the action.

Fraser Suites Kensington is the best place to stay in this gorgeous borough. Located in a lovingly conserved heritage building, our hotel’s studio and one-, two-, and three-bedroom serviced apartments combine modern sophistication and Victorian elegance. Each apartment boasts a fully equipped kitchenette, a flatscreen TV and a home entertainment system, while our hotel also offers convenient amenities such as a gym, steam and sauna facilities, and a 2.5-acre private garden.The perfect location when booking a long stay of 28 days or more. Stay with us in comfort and enjoy being close to fantastic public transport links, major attractions, and areas known for art and culture, wining and dining, entertainment, shopping, and nightlife.