Piano Kensington (Royal Garden Hotel)
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
Piano Kensington is the hotel piano bar and late-evening hangout on the ground floor of the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington, London, offering live piano requests, cocktails and a casual menu of pizzas, sliders and bar snacks in a warm, music-led setting overlooking the High Street near Kensington Gardens.
A brief summary to Piano Kensington
- Royal Garden Hotel, 2-24 Kensington High St, London, W8 4PT, GB
- +442073611977
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
- Thursday 5 pm-1 am
- Friday 5 pm-1 am
- Saturday 5 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Make a reservation for weekend evenings if you want a guaranteed table — the venue fills quickly after the pianist starts late sets.
- Try a signature cocktail and share a pizza or sliders if you prefer relaxed, shareable food rather than a full multi-course meal.
- If you want a quieter experience come earlier in the evening before the sing-along requests intensify after 9pm.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Piano Kensington location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Piano Kensington
An intimate music-led bar with hotel heart
Piano Kensington sits within the Royal Garden Hotel on Kensington High Street and presents as a compact, convivial piano bar rather than a sprawling nightclub. The space is built around a live piano where an on-site pianist takes song requests and provides a rolling soundtrack of classics, pop and easy-listening covers; the result is a venue where conversation and live performance coexist, and where the music is deliberately at the centre of the atmosphere.Food and drink — casual, crowd-pleasing fare
The offering is focused on cocktails, wines and an accessible food menu designed for sharing or late-night appetites. Expect wood-fired pizzas, small plates such as sliders and battered fish fingers, and a selection of bar snacks and desserts; menus are straightforward and priced in the moderate range, with craft and classic cocktails highlighted alongside bottled and by-the-glass wine choices. The service style is hotel-casual, aimed at relaxed evening dining and drinks rather than formal tasting menus.Character and vibe through the evening
As night falls, the room’s lighting softens and the pianist shifts the mood from background accompaniment to the main event: early evenings are comfortable and chatty, while later sets tend toward upbeat sing-along moments, especially after 9pm. The bar’s compact footprint and live requests create a friendly, slightly theatrical energy — a mix of locals, hotel guests and visitors looking for music-driven nightlife without the intensity of a dance venue.Design details and setting
The bar takes advantage of its hotel location: furnishings are smart but casual, with comfortable seating and tables arranged to balance good sightlines to the piano with spaces for small groups. Large windows and the proximity to Kensington High Street and nearby green spaces give the venue a sense of place in one of west London’s busier neighbourhoods, while interior touches keep the focus on warmth and hospitality rather than flashy design statements.Events, booking and typical schedule
Piano Kensington operates evenings from midweek through Saturday, with live piano sets and occasional special events such as seasonal celebrations. The venue accepts reservations for tables and walk-ins are possible when space allows; its schedule and nightly tone can vary depending on hotel events and seasonal programming, so a booked night may feature a slightly different format from a typical weeknight set.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kensington War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
142 Cromwell Rd
0.9 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Speke Monument
0.9 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
George Orwell Plaque
1.2 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.3 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Queen Victoria Monument
1.3 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
37 Thurloe St
1.3 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Space Apart Hotel
1.3 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
Sussex Gardens
1.5 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Empire House
1.5 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.5 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Thin House
1.5 km
Explore the unique architectural beauty of Thin House in South Kensington, a must-see tourist attraction in London showcasing history and charm.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.5 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
HTB Onslow Square
1.6 km
Explore the beauty and community spirit of HTB Onslow Square, an iconic Anglican church in South Kensington, London, steeped in history and charity.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kensington High St
0.2 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Kensington Palace
0.3 km
Discover centuries of royal history and serene gardens at Kensington Palace, a majestic London landmark and former home to British monarchs.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.3 km
A majestic marble statue of Queen Victoria by her daughter, marking the birthplace and childhood home of one of Britain’s most iconic monarchs.
Round Pond
0.5 km
Historic ornamental lake in Kensington Gardens, home to model yachts and diverse wildlife, set against the iconic backdrop of Kensington Palace.
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.
Diana Memorial Playground
0.7 km
A magical, inclusive Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, offering imaginative play and adventure for children of all abilities.
The Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and gilded grandeur.
Imperial Cinema
0.8 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Royal Albert Hall
0.8 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
Kensington Gardens
0.8 km
Explore Kensington Gardens, a royal London oasis blending historic grandeur, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly adventures across 265 acres of green space.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
0.8 km
Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
Notting Hill Bike tours
0.9 km
Discover London’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods on a safe, fun, and engaging bike tour through Notting Hill and beyond.
the Design Museum
0.9 km
Explore the cutting-edge world of design in London’s iconic museum, where creativity meets culture and innovation shapes everyday life.
Notting Hill Gate
0.9 km
Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
QUEENS skate dine bowl
0.9 km
London’s oldest year-round ice rink, bowling lanes, and vibrant dining combine for nonstop fun at QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl on Queensway.
Essential places to dine
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.1 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
0.1 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Grato
0.2 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.3 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
The Shed
0.8 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Il Portico
0.9 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.2 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Town House Kensington
1.3 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.4 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.5 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Gold
1.5 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.2 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Jigsaw
0.2 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Good
0.3 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
0.3 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.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
0.7 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.
the Design Museum Shop
0.9 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.
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 Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
1.0 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
1.0 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.
The London Shop
1.0 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
The gift store
1.1 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.
Appletree boutique
1.1 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
Science Museum Shop
1.1 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
1.1 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piano Kensington
0.0 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
0.1 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Stables Bar
0.1 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
0.2 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
The Builders Arms
0.4 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
0.6 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
Bar 190
0.7 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.0 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 Sun In Splendour
1.1 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.1 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.2 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
K Bar
1.3 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.4 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
Naked & Famous Bar
1.5 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Metric
0.7 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Notting Hill Arts Club
0.8 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.
Dolce Night Club , London
1.3 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
1.4 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
1.4 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Ricco London
1.6 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Globe
1.8 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
The Duke of Wellington
1.8 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
Subteranian
2.3 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Lost In Disco
3.0 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
3.2 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
3.2 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Tabu London
3.3 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
3.6 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Group Friendly
- Adult Friendly