The Tabernacle: Notting Hill’s Vibrant Cultural Beacon
Historic Notting Hill venue blending Victorian architecture with vibrant community arts and music culture.
The Tabernacle, located in Powis Square, Notting Hill, is a historic Grade II-listed building dating back to 1887. Originally a church, it has evolved into a dynamic community arts centre and performing arts venue, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events. Renowned for its distinctive curved Romanesque façade of red brick and terracotta, it serves as a lively hub for local culture and the permanent base for the Notting Hill Carnival.
A brief summary to The Tabernacle
- 34-35 Powis Sq, London, W11 2AY, GB
- +442072219700
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Check the event calendar in advance to catch live music, theatre, or art exhibitions.
- Visit the café and bar for a relaxed atmosphere before or after events.
- Explore the surrounding Powis Square gardens and street art for a full cultural experience.
- Attend during the Notting Hill Carnival season to experience the venue’s central role in the festivities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central, District, or Circle Line to Notting Hill Gate Station. From there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk through gentle urban terrain to Powis Square. The Underground fare ranges from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 27 and 28 serve the Notting Hill area with stops near Powis Square. Travel times vary from 20 to 35 minutes from central London. Single fares cost approximately £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Walking
If you are near Portobello Road Market, a 10-minute walk along paved streets leads to The Tabernacle. The terrain is flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
The Tabernacle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Tabernacle
Architectural Heritage and Origins
The Tabernacle was constructed in 1887, replacing an earlier temporary metal structure from 1869. Its striking curved Romanesque façade, crafted from red brick and decorated with terracotta tiles, earned it the nickname "The Taj Mahal of North Kensington." This Grade II-listed building reflects the Victorian era’s architectural style and was initially established as a Protestant evangelical prayer hall. Its design and historical significance make it a prominent landmark within the Notting Hill area.Transformation into a Cultural Hub
In 1975, the Tabernacle ceased functioning as a church and was repurposed as a community arts centre. During this period, the surrounding Powis Square became a magnet for musicians, hippies, and activists, fostering a creative and rebellious spirit. The venue hosted rehearsals and gigs for iconic bands such as The Rolling Stones, The Clash, Pink Floyd, and later became a leading venue for rap and reggae music in west London. This evolution marked the Tabernacle’s shift from religious worship to a vibrant cultural and artistic space.Community and Carnival Legacy
The Tabernacle has long been a focal point for the local community, especially for the black community in the late 1970s when the music scene shifted towards Rastafarian reggae and dub. It played a key role in supporting cultural events like the Notting Hill Carnival, becoming its permanent base. Over the decades, it has hosted benefit gigs, exhibitions, and performances by notable artists such as Joe Strummer, Aswad, and Damon Albarn, cementing its reputation as a cultural beacon that champions diversity and community spirit.Modern-Day Functions and Atmosphere
Today, the Tabernacle functions as a multi-use venue offering a concert hall, gallery, music studios, and event spaces. It features a café and bar where visitors can relax and mingle. The venue’s program includes live music, theatre performances, art exhibitions, and community gatherings, making it a vibrant cultural hub. The surrounding gardens and street art add to its inviting atmosphere, providing a picturesque setting in the heart of Notting Hill.Restoration and Recognition
The building underwent significant restoration funded partly by the National Lottery, ensuring its preservation and continued use as a cultural centre. In 1999, the Tabernacle received the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea environment award for its restoration and was officially relaunched with support from prominent figures including Mick Jagger and Vanessa Branson. This restoration preserved its architectural integrity while adapting it for contemporary community and artistic uses.Enduring Cultural Impact
The Tabernacle remains a vital part of London’s cultural landscape, blending its rich history with a forward-looking artistic vision. It continues to host a diverse range of events that celebrate music, arts, and community activism. Its legacy as a place of worship, a hippy haven, and a cultural powerhouse reflects the dynamic social history of Notting Hill and west London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Castle
0.3 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.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
0.5 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
0.6 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
George Orwell Plaque
0.7 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Space Apart Hotel
0.8 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
Speke Monument
1.8 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Kensington War Memorial
1.8 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
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.
Paddington Basin
2.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Paddington Basin, London's enchanting waterside destination filled with modern architecture and relaxing scenery.
Edward Jenner Memorial
2.0 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Leighton House
2.0 km
Discover the opulence of 19th-century art at Leighton House, an art museum showcasing the legacy of Frederic Leighton in London.
The Fan Bridge
2.1 km
Explore The Fan Bridge in Paddington Basin, London, a stunning architectural landmark offering unique views and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
The Paddington Partnership
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
Queen Victoria Monument
2.3 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
3 Abbey Rd.
2.3 km
World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
Unmissable attractions to see
All Saints' Church, Notting Hill
0.1 km
Victorian Gothic Revival marvel with a towering spire, rich Anglo-Catholic heritage, and a vibrant role in Notting Hill’s cultural tapestry.
St Lukes Mews
0.1 km
Discover the colorful charm and cinematic history of St Luke's Mews, a serene cobbled street in the heart of Notting Hill.
Notting Hill House of Colors
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Notting Hill House of Colors, where pastel streets meet lively markets and rich cultural heritage in the heart of London.
Electric Cinema
0.3 km
Experience cinematic history and luxury in London’s oldest working cinema, blending Edwardian charm with plush comfort on Portobello Road.
Portobello Rd
0.3 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.
Portobello Road Market
0.3 km
Explore London’s iconic Portobello Road Market, a vibrant blend of antiques, vintage fashion, fresh food, and lively street culture in Notting Hill.
The Blue Door Notting Hill Film
0.3 km
Discover the iconic blue door of Notting Hill at 280 Westbourne Park Road, a beloved symbol of romance and cinema in vibrant West London.
The Notting Hill Bookshop
0.3 km
Discover literary treasures and cinematic magic at The Notting Hill Bookshop, a charming West London landmark famed for its iconic film connection.
Melt Chocolates
0.4 km
Discover freshly handmade luxury chocolates in Notting Hill’s charming artisan boutique with eco-friendly values and immersive experiences.
Westbourne Grove
0.4 km
Elegant Notting Hill shopping street blending independent boutiques, designer fashion, and acclaimed dining in refined London style.
Cambridge Gdns
0.4 km
Charming Notting Hill street with historic homes, leafy communal gardens, and vibrant local culture in the heart of London’s Kensington and Chelsea.
Notting Hill
0.5 km
Discover Notting Hill’s colorful streets, iconic market, and vibrant culture in one of London’s most charming neighborhoods.
Celebrity's Secret Door
0.5 km
Discover the enigmatic Celebrity's Secret Door, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of vibrant Portobello Road, London’s iconic market street.
Museum of Brands
0.6 km
Step into a vibrant Time Tunnel tracing 200 years of British brands, design, and consumer culture at London’s Museum of Brands in Notting Hill.
Ladbroke Square Garden
0.7 km
Historic Ladbroke Square Garden offers a tranquil, private green oasis in the heart of Notting Hill’s elegant 19th-century garden suburb.
Essential places to dine
The Ledbury
0.1 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.
The Sushi Co - Notting Hill
0.3 km
Fresh, flavorful sushi and Asian dishes served late in a casual Portobello Road spot with friendly service and gluten-free options.
La mia Mamma Notting Hill
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian regional cuisine prepared by real mammas in a warm, lively Notting Hill trattoria setting.
Osteria Napoletana
0.3 km
Cozy Neapolitan eatery in Notting Hill serving authentic southern Italian classics with warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
0.3 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining in a rustic, cozy setting nestled in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
0.4 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
Gold
0.5 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Core by Clare Smyth
0.5 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
0.5 km
Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Cocotte Notting Hill
0.7 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
The Ladbroke Arms
0.9 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
The Shed
1.1 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Goldsmith Vintage
0.2 km
Discover chic vintage treasures at Goldsmith Vintage on bustling Portobello Road, where timeless fashion meets Notting Hill's iconic market charm.
Hangout Clothing
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover Jovonna's feminine edge on Portobello Road: classic meets contemporary in Notting Hill's fashion heartbeat.
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.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
0.4 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Antique Clothing Shop
0.5 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.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Appletree boutique
0.8 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
The gift store
0.8 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.
Notting hill store
0.9 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
The London Shop
1.2 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.6 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.
Good
1.7 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.8 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Little Yellow Door
0.1 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.
The Pelican
0.3 km
Notting Hill's gastropub gem: robust British plates, craft ales, and sustainable flair in a revived 150-year-old corner boozer.
The Walmer Castle
0.3 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
Trailer Happiness
0.3 km
Notting Hill's kitschy tiki basement bar pours rum-heavy daiquiris and tropical twists amid plush, indulgent vibes—prime for rowdy W11 nights.
Portobello Star
0.3 km
Gin mastery on Portobello Road: vintage vibes, craft cocktails, and Notting Hill's electric market energy in one cozy retreat.
The Week
0.3 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.
Love
0.3 km
Intimate Portobello Road cocktail bar with polished service, crafted drinks and a warm, late‑night Notting Hill atmosphere.
The Quiet Night Inn
0.4 km
Lively Notting Hill pub with roof terrace, local brews, games, live sports, and open mic nights—perfect for casual hangs and private events.
The Earl of Lonsdale
0.4 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.
Naked & Famous Bar
0.4 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Elgin
0.5 km
Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.
The Sun In Splendour
0.7 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
0.9 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.2 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
Prince of Wales
1.8 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
