If you hear the word Notting Hill, you’re reminded of the famous movie with Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts by the same name. Yes, they were involved, and yes, they helped make it famous, but there’s so much here. This London neighbourhood has busy markets, coloured houses, local pubs and side streets where you’ll want to lose an afternoon. Whether you’re a tourist or just someone who never ventures west in London, Notting Hill is really worth your while. It’s easy to get to, relatively easy to get around, and has much to see without necessarily breaking the bank. And here’s an easy, no-nonsense guide to do just that, having some sound advice on the best ways to spend a day (or two) in Notting Hill.

Start with Portobello Road

It’s impossible to claim you’ve “done” Notting Hill unless you’ve strolled along Portobello Road. It’s one of those streets where you could come every week and see something new. Markets are on every Saturday—it’s all there: antiques, old maps, jewellery, furniture, and bits you don’t need but can’t help shopping for. It can get crowded, but that’s just part of the fun. Weekdays are more subdued and equally lively with food stalls, fresh fruit and veg, and stores hawking everything from vintage clothing to kitschy gifts. You don’t have to be shopping; just wander the stalls and people-watch.

Snap the Colourful Houses (But Don’t Be Rude)

Let’s be honest: everyone loves those bright pastel terraces. They look fantastic on Instagram, but remember—real people live there. Lancaster Road is a classic for photos. So is St Luke’s Mews with its cobbles and pink house (you’ll recognise it from Love Actually). It’s fine to take pictures; just be respectful. Don’t sit on someone’s steps or block their door. Londoners are friendly until you get in their way.

Pop Into a Proper Bookshop

The Notting Hill Bookshop on Blenheim Crescent is small but lovely. It’s the one the film was based on, so it does get tourists, but locals still shop here. Inside, it’s all maps, travel writing, fiction. The kind of place you go in “just to look” and leave with three books you didn’t plan to buy. Perfect on a rainy day when you want a bit of quiet.

Eat Like a Local, Not a Tourist

Plenty of places here charge silly money just because they’re in Notting Hill. But you don’t have to fall for that. For a solid coffee and a decent toastie, try Cable Co or Farm Girl (famous for its rose lattes if you’re into that). For lunch, you could sit in Daylesford Organic if you fancy feeling posh, or grab street food from the market. Jamaican patties, falafel wraps, hot churros—it’s all there. Sweet tooth? Hummingbird Bakery is a London classic for cupcakes. Or Gelato Mio for ice cream on a sunny day.

Relax in Holland Park

If the market’s too hectic, head a little south to Holland Park. It’s less known to visitors but locals love it. There’s formal gardens, woodland bits, a giant chess set, and the Kyoto Garden with koi ponds and waterfalls. Even peacocks strut around like they own the place. Bring a sandwich, grab a bench, and watch Londoners walking their dogs or reading the paper.

Catch a Film at the Electric Cinema

One of London’s oldest cinemas, and certainly one of the comfiest. Big leather armchairs with footstools, little lamps, and even double beds in the front row. They show blockbusters and classics, and there’s a proper bar. It’s not cheap but it’s special. Perfect for date night or treating yourself.

Hunt for Vintage Treasures

If you like vintage clothes, Notting Hill’s your spot. Try One of a Kind or Retro Woman for high-end second-hand finds. Or rummage the market stalls for cheaper gems. There’s also plenty of independent shops selling records, books, and antiques. Half the fun is not knowing what you’ll find.

Duck Into a Pub

You’ll need a rest after all that. Notting Hill has cracking pubs. The Churchill Arms is famous for its flower-covered exterior and Thai food inside. It’s touristy but still worth it. The Ladbroke Arms is a bit quieter with excellent food. Or try The Windsor Castle, one of London’s older pubs, with low doorways and dark wood panelling—it feels like stepping back in time.

Get Lost in the Backstreets

The truth is, the best way to experience Notting Hill is just by wandering. Go one street back from the main roads and discover peaceful mews streets with cobbles and converted stables. Rosmead Road, Elgin Crescent, and Colville Mews – they’re all packed with old-school London character. It is all too easy to forget you are in one of the largest cities in the world when you are strolling beside a sleepy leafy lane with birds singing and cats sunbathing upon walls.

If You’re Brave, Visit During Carnival

Every August Bank Holiday, Notting Hill explodes with music, dancing, and crowds. The Notting Hill Carnival celebrates Caribbean culture with sound systems, costumes, and endless jerk chicken stalls. It’s Europe’s biggest street party. It’s brilliant fun, but it’s busy. Really busy. If you like a bit of chaos, you’ll love it. If crowds aren’t your thing, maybe pick another weekend.

Final Word

Notting Hill isn’t only about tourists with cameras (or people who have seen the movie too many times). It is a real London neighbourhood, with history, character, and plenty to see. Markets, parks, pubs, shops, colourful houses — it’s all here. Our best advice? Don’t rush. Grab a coffee. Have a wander. Get lost down a side street. Chat to the market traders. Watch the world go by. That’s the real Notting Hill that everyone should actually experience. And believe us, you’ll come back.