Ladbroke Square Garden: Historic Heart of Notting Hill's Green Legacy
Discover Ladbroke Square Garden, a serene, historic green oasis at the heart of Notting Hill’s iconic Ladbroke Estate.
Ladbroke Square Garden, located in London’s W11 district, is the largest and one of the most historically significant private communal gardens in the Ladbroke Estate. Originally laid out in 1849 by architect Thomas Allason, this Grade II-listed garden occupies the site of the former Hippodrome racecourse entrance. Surrounded by elegant stuccoed terraces, it offers a tranquil green oasis steeped in Victorian-era design and the legacy of Notting Hill’s 19th-century development.
A brief summary to Ladbroke Square Garden
- Ladbroke Square, London, W11 3HD, GB
- +447717477173
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during London Open Garden events to access the garden, as it is usually private.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns during open days for a relaxing experience.
- Respect the garden’s tranquil atmosphere by keeping noise to a minimum.
- Explore the surrounding Ladbroke Estate to appreciate the complementary Victorian architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Notting Hill Gate station, approximately 15-20 minutes walk to Ladbroke Square Garden. The walk involves gentle slopes and is accessible, with no entrance fee. Tube fare ranges from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on the ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 27, 28, and 52 serve the Ladbroke Grove area near Ladbroke Square. From the bus stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk on mostly flat terrain. Bus fares are typically £1.65 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Ladbroke Square Garden takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £10-£20. Note that parking near the garden is restricted and mainly reserved for residents.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Ladbroke Square Garden is pleasant and accessible, with routes through the historic Ladbroke Estate neighborhood. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.
Ladbroke Square Garden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Ladbroke Square Garden
Origins Rooted in Ambition and Landscape Design
Ladbroke Square Garden is a centerpiece of the Ladbroke Estate, a vast 19th-century development in Notting Hill initiated by the wealthy Ladbroke family. The estate’s transformation began in the 1820s when James Weller Ladbroke commissioned architect Thomas Allason to design a master plan that included large private communal gardens enclosed by terraces of houses. Ladbroke Square, completed in 1849, stands as the largest of these gardens, embodying Allason’s vision of green spaces that blend urban living with nature.The Hippodrome Racecourse Legacy
Before becoming a garden, the site was the entrance to the Hippodrome racecourse, established in 1837 by entrepreneur John Whyte. The racecourse was an ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful venture due to heavy ground conditions. After its closure in 1842, the land was repurposed for residential development, and the garden was laid out in place of the racecourse entrance, marking a shift from sporting spectacle to serene residential greenery.Architectural Harmony and Garden Design
The garden is surrounded by stuccoed brick terraces typical of the Ladbroke Estate, reflecting mid-19th-century architectural styles. The layout follows Allason’s plan, featuring sweeping curves and enclosed green spaces that offer privacy and tranquility to residents. The garden’s Grade II listing recognizes its historical and architectural importance, preserving its character amid one of London’s most fashionable neighborhoods.Community and Cultural Significance
Over the decades, Ladbroke Square Garden has served as a private sanctuary for residents, with early regulations restricting noisy games but encouraging genteel activities like croquet and lawn tennis. It remains a symbol of the garden suburb movement, emphasizing communal green spaces as essential to urban life. The garden occasionally hosts community events, including teas and musical performances, fostering neighborhood connection.Natural Beauty and Seasonal Appeal
Spanning approximately seven acres, the garden features mature trees, manicured lawns, and seasonal flower beds that create a peaceful retreat from city bustle. Its design encourages quiet enjoyment and picnicking, with an atmosphere that changes subtly with the seasons, from vibrant spring blooms to tranquil winter greenery.Preservation and Access
Though primarily private, Ladbroke Square Garden opens to the public on select days, such as during London Open Garden events, allowing visitors to experience its historic charm firsthand. Access is through a gate opposite No. 60 Kensington Park Road. The garden’s preservation is supported by local residents and heritage organizations, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
0.2 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
George Orwell Plaque
0.3 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
0.5 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
The Castle
0.7 km
Experience the charm of a traditional British pub at The Castle on Portobello Road, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of London.
Space Apart Hotel
0.9 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
Kensington War Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Queen Victoria Monument
1.5 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Speke Monument
1.6 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Paddington Bear Statue
1.9 km
Visit the charming Paddington Bear Statue in London, a delightful tribute to the beloved character that captures the hearts of tourists and locals alike.
Sussex Gardens
1.9 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.9 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
The Albert Memorial
1.9 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens honoring Prince Albert’s legacy and Victorian achievement.
142 Cromwell Rd
2.0 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Paddington Basin
2.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Paddington Basin, London's enchanting waterside destination filled with modern architecture and relaxing scenery.
Kensal Green Cemetery
2.2 km
Explore the rich history and serene beauty of Kensal Green Cemetery, one of London's oldest burial grounds, a tranquil escape amidst the city's vibrancy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Celebrity's Secret Door
0.2 km
Discover the enigmatic Celebrity's Secret Door, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of vibrant Portobello Road, London’s iconic market street.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
0.4 km
A powerful bronze tribute in London’s Holland Park honoring Saint Volodymyr, the 10th-century prince who Christianized Kievan Rus.
The Gate Picturehouse
0.4 km
Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Holland Park
0.4 km
Discover Holland Park’s blend of historic ruins, serene Japanese gardens, vibrant wildlife, and lively cultural events in the heart of West London.
Melt Chocolates
0.5 km
Discover freshly handmade luxury chocolates in Notting Hill’s charming artisan boutique with eco-friendly values and immersive experiences.
Notting Hill Gate
0.5 km
Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
0.5 km
Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
Clarendon Cross
0.5 km
Discover Clarendon Cross, a quaint and vibrant village-like square in Notting Hill, blending historic charm with eclectic boutiques and a warm community spirit.
Portobello Rd
0.5 km
Explore London’s vibrant Portobello Road Market, a historic hub of antiques, vintage fashion, fresh produce, and global street food in the heart of Notting Hill.
Electric Cinema
0.6 km
Experience cinematic history and luxury in London’s oldest working cinema, blending Edwardian charm with plush comfort on Portobello Road.
The Notting Hill Bookshop
0.6 km
Discover literary treasures and cinematic magic at The Notting Hill Bookshop, a charming West London landmark famed for its iconic film connection.
Westbourne Grove
0.6 km
Elegant Notting Hill shopping street blending independent boutiques, designer fashion, and acclaimed dining in refined London style.
Clanricarde Gardens
0.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Clanricarde Gardens, a hidden gem in London, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature in the bustling city.
All Saints' Church, Notting Hill
0.7 km
Victorian Gothic Revival marvel with a towering spire, rich Anglo-Catholic heritage, and a vibrant role in Notting Hill’s cultural tapestry.
The Tabernacle
0.7 km
Historic Notting Hill venue blending Victorian architecture with vibrant community arts and music culture.
Essential places to dine
The Ladbroke Arms
0.2 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Core by Clare Smyth
0.2 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Gold
0.3 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
0.5 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
The Sushi Co - Notting Hill
0.6 km
Fresh, flavorful sushi and Asian dishes served late in a casual Portobello Road spot with friendly service and gluten-free options.
Osteria Napoletana
0.6 km
Cozy Neapolitan eatery in Notting Hill serving authentic southern Italian classics with warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere.
La mia Mamma Notting Hill
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian regional cuisine prepared by real mammas in a warm, lively Notting Hill trattoria setting.
The Shed
0.6 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
The Ledbury
0.7 km
Experience world-class Modern European fine dining in Notting Hill at The Ledbury, a 3-Michelin-starred culinary gem blending British ingredients with French elegance.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
0.8 km
Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Cocotte Notting Hill
0.8 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Italian dining in a rustic, cozy setting nestled in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
1.0 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portobello Gifts Shop London
0.2 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
0.2 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
0.3 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Appletree boutique
0.3 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
The gift store
0.3 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
The Blue Door
0.4 km
Discover stylish clothing and unique hats at The Blue Door, a charming boutique nestled in the lively heart of Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Notting hill store
0.4 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.6 km
Discover chic vintage treasures at Goldsmith Vintage on bustling Portobello Road, where timeless fashion meets Notting Hill's iconic market charm.
Hangout Clothing
0.8 km
Discover designer flair on Portobello Road at Hangout Clothing, where trendy threads meet Notting Hill's bohemian buzz in a chic boutique haven.
Jovonna Notting Hill Boutique
0.8 km
Discover Jovonna's feminine edge on Portobello Road: classic meets contemporary in Notting Hill's fashion heartbeat.
Antique Clothing Shop
1.0 km
Discover timeless threads and retro glamour at this Portobello Road gem, where antique clothing whispers stories from London's stylish past amid market vibrancy.
The London Shop
1.1 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Good
1.1 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.2 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
the Design Museum Shop
1.2 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Naked & Famous Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
0.3 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
The Sun In Splendour
0.3 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
Portobello Star
0.5 km
Gin mastery on Portobello Road: vintage vibes, craft cocktails, and Notting Hill's electric market energy in one cozy retreat.
Trailer Happiness
0.5 km
Notting Hill's kitschy tiki basement bar pours rum-heavy daiquiris and tropical twists amid plush, indulgent vibes—prime for rowdy W11 nights.
The Week
0.5 km
Cozy Notting Hill bar on Elgin Crescent, blending craft cocktails and warm vibes in West London's chicest corner. Ideal for intimate evenings amid Victorian charm.
The Walmer Castle
0.6 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
0.7 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Elgin
0.8 km
Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.
The Little Yellow Door
0.8 km
Notting Hill's quirky flatshare bar where cocktails flow from teacups, games spark laughs, and every night feels like a spontaneous house party in a colorful home.
Love
0.9 km
Intimate Portobello Road cocktail bar with polished service, crafted drinks and a warm, late‑night Notting Hill atmosphere.
The Pelican
0.9 km
Notting Hill's gastropub gem: robust British plates, craft ales, and sustainable flair in a revived 150-year-old corner boozer.
The Quiet Night Inn
1.1 km
Lively Notting Hill pub with roof terrace, local brews, games, live sports, and open mic nights—perfect for casual hangs and private events.
Prince of Wales
1.2 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Duke of Wellington
0.5 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
Notting Hill Arts Club
0.6 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
The Globe
0.7 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Subteranian
1.1 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Ricco London
1.3 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Metric
2.0 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Lost In Disco
2.1 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Dolce Night Club , London
2.6 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
2.6 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Carwash Nightclub
4.0 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
LUXX CLUB LONDON
4.1 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
4.3 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Cuckoo Club
4.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
