Sambourne House: A Victorian Artistic Sanctuary in Kensington
Step into Sambourne House, a Victorian treasure showcasing the art, design, and life of Punch’s celebrated cartoonist in the heart of Kensington.
Sambourne House, located at 18 Stafford Terrace in London’s Holland Park, is a meticulously preserved Victorian townhouse that once belonged to Edward Linley Sambourne, the celebrated Punch magazine cartoonist. This unique museum offers visitors an immersive glimpse into Victorian life and the Aesthetic Movement, showcasing original furnishings, intricate William Morris wallpapers, stained glass, and a rich collection of artworks and personal artifacts. Open Wednesday to Sunday, it is a hidden gem for lovers of art, history, and Victorian design.
A brief summary to Sambourne House
- 18 Stafford Terrace, London, W8 7BH, GB
- +442073613790
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays, Saturdays, or Sundays to enjoy open access hours without pre-booking.
- Allow about an hour to fully appreciate the detailed interiors and art collections.
- Combine your visit with nearby Leighton House Museum for a rich Victorian art experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the house has stairs and the upper floors contain bedrooms and the artist’s studio.
- Check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm opening times, especially during holidays or maintenance closures.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to High Street Kensington station, served by the Circle and District lines. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to 18 Stafford Terrace. Trains run frequently, with a journey time of approximately 20–30 minutes from central London. Note that the station has step-free access on the District line platforms only.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the area, including routes 9, 23, 27, 28, 49, 328, and C1. The nearest stops are on Kensington High Street, about a 5–10 minute walk from Sambourne House. Bus frequency varies but is generally every 10–15 minutes during the day. Buses are wheelchair accessible.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Sambourne House typically takes 20–40 minutes depending on traffic, especially during peak hours. Street parking nearby is limited and often restricted, so using a taxi or rideshare is recommended over driving yourself.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Sambourne House through Holland Park offers a scenic and pleasant route, taking approximately 15–30 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some paved garden paths.
Sambourne House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sambourne House
A Window into Victorian Creativity and Domestic Life
Sambourne House was the family home of Edward Linley Sambourne, a leading illustrator and cartoonist for the iconic Punch magazine, and his wife Marion. Purchased in 1875, the house reflects the lifestyle and tastes of a well-to-do Victorian artistic family. It stands as a rare example of the 'House Beautiful' style, part of the Aesthetic Movement that emphasized artistic expression and craftsmanship in domestic interiors. Visitors can explore rooms filled with heavy mahogany furniture, richly patterned William Morris wallpapers, stained glass windows, and a vast array of decorative objects that reveal the Sambournes’ passion for art and design.Architectural and Decorative Richness
The house’s Italianate terraced façade blends into the elegant Kensington neighborhood, but inside, it bursts with Victorian opulence and personality. The interiors are a carefully preserved time capsule, showcasing the couple’s eclectic collection of ceramics, photographs, and artworks. Linley Sambourne’s studio on the top floor, once a creative hub, also housed a makeshift photographic darkroom in the bathroom, highlighting the innovative spirit of the household. The decorative scheme combines exotic influences from Japanese, Middle Eastern, and Chinese art, reflecting the Victorian fascination with global aesthetics.Historical Significance and Preservation
After the Sambournes’ deaths, the house was preserved by their descendants and opened to the public in 1980 by the Victorian Society. It is now managed by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and underwent extensive restoration before reopening in 2022. The museum not only celebrates Linley Sambourne’s artistic legacy but also offers insight into Victorian social history, family life, and the artistic milieu of late 19th-century London. The house has also featured in films such as 'A Room With A View' and 'Maurice', adding to its cultural significance.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Sambourne House can wander through the richly decorated rooms and absorb the atmosphere of a Victorian middle-class home filled with art and curiosities. The museum offers guided tours that provide expert insights into the Sambournes’ lives and the historical context of their home. The experience is intimate and evocative, with the house’s compact size making it accessible yet immersive. The setting is ideal for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and families seeking a cultural outing that combines storytelling with visual splendor.Location and Surroundings
Situated in the tranquil Holland Park area, Sambourne House is close to Kensington High Street and other cultural landmarks like Leighton House Museum. The neighborhood’s Victorian architecture and green spaces complement the museum visit, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and exploration. Nearby cafés and restaurants provide pleasant options for refreshments, making a visit to Sambourne House a well-rounded cultural day out in West London.Access and Practical Information
Sambourne House is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5:30pm, with last entry at 4:30pm. Admission fees vary, with concessions available and free entry for children under six. The house is accessible by public transport, with High Street Kensington tube station nearby. While the house has stairs and may be challenging for visitors with limited mobility, the main floors offer a comprehensive experience. Visitors are advised to check opening times before visiting due to occasional closures for maintenance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kensington War Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Queen Victoria Monument
0.6 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
142 Cromwell Rd
0.9 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
George Orwell Plaque
1.2 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
1.4 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Speke Monument
1.5 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
1.6 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
Space Apart Hotel
1.6 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
37 Thurloe St
1.7 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.8 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
All Saints' Church, Notting Hill
1.8 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of All Saints' Church, a must-visit Anglican church and cultural hub in Notting Hill, London.
HTB Onslow Square
1.8 km
Explore the beauty and community spirit of HTB Onslow Square, an iconic Anglican church in South Kensington, London, steeped in history and charity.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.9 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
The Tabernacle
1.9 km
Discover The Tabernacle in Notting Hill, a vibrant community center and performing arts venue showcasing London's rich cultural tapestry.
Thin House
1.9 km
Explore the unique architectural beauty of Thin House in South Kensington, a must-see tourist attraction in London showcasing history and charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
the Design Museum
0.2 km
Explore the cutting-edge world of design in London’s iconic museum, where creativity meets culture and innovation shapes everyday life.
Kensington High St
0.4 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
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.
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.
Holland Park
0.6 km
Discover Holland Park’s serene gardens, historic charm, and vibrant recreational spaces in the heart of Kensington, London.
Kyoto Garden
0.6 km
A tranquil Japanese garden in London’s Holland Park, gifted by Kyoto to celebrate cultural friendship and seasonal beauty.
Kensington Palace Green
0.7 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Kensington Palace
0.8 km
Discover centuries of royal history and serene gardens at Kensington Palace, a majestic London landmark and former home to British monarchs.
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.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
0.9 km
A powerful bronze tribute in London’s Holland Park honoring Saint Volodymyr, the 10th-century prince who Christianized Kievan Rus.
The Gate Picturehouse
0.9 km
Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.9 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.
Notting Hill Gate
1.0 km
Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
Earl’s Court Police Box
1.0 km
Discover London’s last classic blue police box, a nostalgic landmark blending history, pop culture, and urban policing heritage at Earl’s Court.
Olympia Events
1.1 km
Historic Victorian architecture meets cutting-edge event spaces in London’s premier exhibition and entertainment destination.
Essential places to dine
Il Portico
0.3 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
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.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Grato
0.5 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Zuaya London
0.6 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.6 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
The Shed
1.0 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.0 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.4 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Gold
1.4 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.6 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Town House Kensington
1.6 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
0.1 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
0.2 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.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
0.3 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
0.3 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.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.5 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Good
0.5 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Kensington Palace Shop
0.8 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.
Notting hill store
1.0 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
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.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.3 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
1.3 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
The London Shop
1.4 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Prince of Wales
0.5 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.5 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 Builders Arms
0.6 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
AMARO BAR - London
0.6 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
0.6 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
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.
Stables Bar
0.7 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
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
1.2 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
Bar 190
1.2 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.2 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.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.3 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.4 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
Naked & Famous Bar
1.5 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
1.5 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.0 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.
Ricco London
1.0 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Metric
1.3 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
B London
1.6 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Dolce Night Club , London
1.6 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
The Duke of Wellington
1.7 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.
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.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
2.0 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
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
2.5 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
3.8 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
3.9 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
3.9 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
4.2 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
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
