Holland Park: A Tranquil Urban Oasis with Rich Heritage and Diverse Recreation
Discover Holland Park’s serene gardens, historic charm, and vibrant recreational spaces in the heart of Kensington, London.
Holland Park, located in West London’s Kensington area, is a 54-acre green sanctuary blending formal gardens, woodland, and sports facilities. It features the serene Kyoto Garden, adventure playgrounds, and remnants of historic Holland House. Visitors enjoy diverse activities including tennis, cricket, and open-air theatre in a peaceful setting enriched by wildlife such as peacocks and squirrels.
A brief summary to Holland Park
- Ilchester Pl, London, W8 6LU, GB
- +442076022226
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Kyoto Garden early in the morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience and to see the koi carp swimming.
- Book sports facilities like tennis courts in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
- Explore the adventure playgrounds for children aged under five and five to fourteen for varied play experiences.
- Attend summer open-air theatre or opera performances on the Holland House terrace for a unique cultural outing.
- Use level access entrances such as Ilchester Place or Duchess of Bedford Walk if mobility is a concern.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
From Holland Park Tube station (Central line), it is a 5-minute walk to the park entrance. The station is well connected with frequent services running throughout the day. No additional fare beyond standard London Underground pricing applies.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including routes 27, 28, and 31, stop within a 10-minute walk of Holland Park. Buses run frequently during the day with fares payable via contactless or Oyster card.
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Car
Parking is available at the Abbotsbury Road car park near the park, with pay-by-phone options. Disabled parking is provided here as well. Note that street parking is limited and may be restricted during peak times.
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Walking
From Kensington High Street station (Circle and District lines), walking to Holland Park takes approximately 15 minutes via mostly flat terrain. Paths within the park are generally accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, though some garden areas have uneven surfaces.
Holland Park 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 Holland Park
Historic Roots and Architectural Legacy
Holland Park occupies the grounds of the former Cope Castle, a Jacobean mansion built in the early 17th century by Sir Walter Cope, Chancellor of the Exchequer under King James I. The estate was renamed Holland House after Lady Rich, the Earl of Holland’s wife, inherited it. Though badly damaged during World War II, a wing of Holland House was preserved and now functions as a youth hostel. The surviving front terrace hosts the park’s summer open-air theatre and classical concerts, blending history with contemporary cultural life.Gardens and Natural Beauty
At the heart of the park lies the exquisite Kyoto Garden, a Japanese-style garden gifted by the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1991 to celebrate the Japan Festival in London. This tranquil space features tiered waterfalls, koi carp ponds, Japanese maples, and stone lanterns, offering a peaceful retreat. Nearby, the Fukushima Garden serves as a contemplative memorial for those affected by the 2011 disaster. The park also boasts formal European gardens, vibrant Dutch Gardens with seasonal tulip displays, and semi-wild woodland areas where peacocks roam freely, enriching the urban wildlife experience.Recreational Facilities and Family Attractions
Holland Park is well equipped for sports and family fun, with tennis courts, football and cricket pitches, golf practice nets, netball courts, and an outdoor gym. Two adventure playgrounds cater to children under five and those aged five to fourteen, featuring climbing structures, zip wires, and swings. The park’s large open grassy areas are ideal for picnics, games, and relaxation. The giant chess set and orangery surrounded by rose gardens add unique charm. A café within the park offers refreshments, while the Belvedere Restaurant nearby serves southern Italian cuisine.Ecology and Community Engagement
The Royal Borough’s Ecology Service is based in Holland Park, underscoring its role as a hub for urban nature conservation. The park hosts health walks, educational activities, and seasonal events such as Opera Holland Park, an acclaimed summer opera festival held amidst the park’s scenic surroundings. Its accessible entrances and facilities, including disabled toilets and parking, make it welcoming to all visitors. The park’s blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community activities fosters a strong local identity and a tranquil escape from city life.Location and Accessibility
Situated just off Kensington High Street, Holland Park is easily reached via Holland Park Tube station (Central line) and High Street Kensington station (Circle and District lines). Several bus routes also serve the area. The park opens daily from 7:30 am until dusk, with some gates closing slightly earlier. Level access points and disabled facilities ensure inclusivity, though some entrances have steep inclines. Ample seating, restrooms, and a car park (pay by phone) enhance visitor comfort.Wildlife and Scenic Ambience
Beyond its cultivated gardens, Holland Park’s woodland areas provide habitat for squirrels, birds, and the park’s iconic peacocks, which freely roam and delight visitors. The combination of manicured landscapes and natural woodland creates a unique urban sanctuary. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, peaceful walks, and seasonal floral displays, making Holland Park a cherished green space in London’s bustling Kensington neighborhood.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Monument
0.7 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Kensington War Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
George Orwell Plaque
1.0 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.0 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
1.2 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.4 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
The Castle
1.5 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
1.5 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
The Albert Memorial
1.8 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens honoring Prince Albert’s legacy and Victorian achievement.
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.
Lancaster Gate
1.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Lancaster Gate, a picturesque haven in London perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
Queen's Tower
1.9 km
A towering neo-Renaissance landmark in South Kensington, the Queen's Tower stands as the historic heart of Imperial College London and a symbol of Victorian ambition.
St Augustine's Church
2.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a hidden gem in London's spiritual landscape.
Mr Mathias Winkler
2.1 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Edward Jenner Memorial
2.1 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kyoto Garden
0.1 km
A tranquil Japanese garden in London’s Holland Park, gifted by Kyoto to celebrate cultural friendship and seasonal beauty.
The Tower House
0.4 km
Discover The Tower House, William Burges’ iconic Victorian Gothic Revival home, a masterpiece of architectural artistry and rich symbolism in London.
the Design Museum
0.4 km
Explore the cutting-edge world of design in London’s iconic museum, where creativity meets culture and innovation shapes everyday life.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in London’s Holland Park honoring Saint Volodymyr, the 10th-century prince who Christianized Kievan Rus.
Leighton House
0.5 km
Explore the exquisite Victorian studio-home of Frederic Leighton, where art, architecture, and Orientalist design create a timeless cultural treasure.
Sambourne House
0.6 km
Step into Sambourne House, a Victorian treasure showcasing the art, design, and life of Punch’s celebrated cartoonist in the heart of Kensington.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
0.7 km
Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
The Gate Picturehouse
0.8 km
Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Ladbroke Square Garden
0.8 km
Historic Ladbroke Square Garden offers a tranquil, private green oasis in the heart of Notting Hill’s elegant 19th-century garden suburb.
Notting Hill Gate
0.8 km
Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
Kensington High St
0.9 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Olympia Events
0.9 km
Historic Victorian architecture meets cutting-edge event spaces in London’s premier exhibition and entertainment destination.
Clarendon Cross
0.9 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.
Kensington Palace Green
1.0 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Celebrity's Secret Door
1.0 km
Discover the enigmatic Celebrity's Secret Door, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of vibrant Portobello Road, London’s iconic market street.
Essential places to dine
Il Portico
0.6 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
0.7 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.8 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.9 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
The Shed
0.9 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Zuaya London
1.0 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Grato
1.0 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.0 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.1 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Gold
1.1 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
1.3 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
the Design Museum Shop
0.5 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.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
0.5 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
0.5 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
0.6 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Good
0.8 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Notting hill store
0.8 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
The gift store
0.9 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.
Jigsaw
0.9 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.9 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Appletree boutique
0.9 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.0 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
1.0 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
1.1 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.1 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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 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.
Prince of Wales
0.9 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
The Sun In Splendour
1.0 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
Piano Kensington
1.1 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
AMARO BAR - London
1.1 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Naked & Famous Bar
1.1 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Builders Arms
1.1 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Earl of Lonsdale
1.1 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.
Stables Bar
1.2 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
Portobello Star
1.3 km
Gin mastery on Portobello Road: vintage vibes, craft cocktails, and Notting Hill's electric market energy in one cozy retreat.
Trailer Happiness
1.3 km
Notting Hill's kitschy tiki basement bar pours rum-heavy daiquiris and tropical twists amid plush, indulgent vibes—prime for rowdy W11 nights.
The Week
1.3 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.
The Walmer Castle
1.4 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ricco London
0.6 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Notting Hill Arts Club
0.9 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 Duke of Wellington
1.3 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Globe
1.5 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Metric
1.8 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Subteranian
1.9 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Lost In Disco
2.0 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
B London
2.1 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
2.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Dolce Night Club , London
2.2 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Carwash Nightclub
4.2 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
4.2 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
4.6 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
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
