George Orwell Plaque on Portobello Road
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
The George Orwell Plaque at 22 Portobello Road, London, is a poignant tribute to one of the 20th century’s most influential writers. Situated in the vibrant Notting Hill area, this historical landmark commemorates Orwell’s profound connection to London and his enduring literary legacy. The plaque stands amidst the lively atmosphere of Portobello Road Market, blending cultural heritage with the eclectic spirit of the neighborhood.
A brief summary to George Orwell Plaque
- 22 Portobello Rd, London, W11 3DH, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during market hours to combine your literary pilgrimage with the lively atmosphere of Portobello Road Market.
- Bring a camera to capture the plaque alongside the colorful street scenes and historic architecture of Notting Hill.
- Explore nearby cafes and shops to experience the eclectic spirit that complements Orwell’s legacy.
- Consider reading Orwell’s works like "1984" or "Animal Farm" beforehand to deepen your appreciation of the site.
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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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Central Line to Notting Hill Gate station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to 22 Portobello Road. Tube services run frequently, with travel times from central London around 15–25 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard zones applies.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Portobello Road, including routes 7, 23, 27, 28, and 52. Bus stops are within a short walk of the plaque. Buses run regularly throughout the day with fares payable via Oyster or contactless payment, typically under £2.00 per journey.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly at Portobello Road. Travel times vary depending on traffic, typically 20–40 minutes from central London. Fares can range from £10 to £25 depending on distance and time of day.
George Orwell Plaque 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 George Orwell Plaque
A Literary Tribute in the Heart of Notting Hill
The George Orwell Plaque is located at 22 Portobello Road, in the bustling Notting Hill district of London. This simple yet powerful commemorative plaque honors Eric Arthur Blair, better known as George Orwell, whose works such as "1984" and "Animal Farm" have left an indelible mark on literature and political thought. The plaque serves as a tangible reminder of Orwell’s enduring influence on discussions about freedom, governance, and social justice. Positioned along one of London’s most famous streets, the plaque is surrounded by the vibrant energy of the Portobello Road Market, a place that reflects the diversity and creativity that Orwell so often explored in his writings.Orwell’s Complex Relationship with London
Though Orwell is often associated with London, his feelings toward the city were ambivalent. He described London as a “whirlpool” that drew in society’s marginalized and solitary figures, yet it was this very environment that fueled much of his literary inspiration. Orwell’s experiences living in various parts of London, including the bombed-out neighborhoods during World War II, informed the dystopian settings of his novels. The plaque’s location in Notting Hill is significant as it situates Orwell within the vibrant, multicultural fabric of the city, a backdrop that influenced his acute observations of society and power structures.Historical and Cultural Significance
The plaque was unveiled in a ceremony that highlighted Orwell’s cultural and political impact, emphasizing the respect he commands across ideological divides. It stands not only as a memorial to Orwell’s literary genius but also as a symbol of the power of literature to provoke thought and inspire change. Visitors can reflect on Orwell’s themes of individuality and societal control while immersed in the lively surroundings of Portobello Road, where history and contemporary culture intersect.Exploring the Surroundings
Portobello Road Market, adjacent to the plaque, is one of London’s most iconic street markets, known for its antiques, vintage fashion, and diverse food stalls. The market operates daily with peak activity on Fridays and Saturdays, offering visitors a rich sensory experience of sights, sounds, and tastes. The area’s colorful shops, cafes, and street life complement the cultural resonance of the Orwell Plaque, making it a rewarding stop for literature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.Legacy and Reflection
The George Orwell Plaque invites contemplation of the author’s legacy in a city that shaped much of his worldview. It stands as a reminder of Orwell’s commitment to truth and social critique, encouraging visitors to engage with the ongoing relevance of his work. The plaque also connects to other Orwell memorials in London, such as his blue plaque in Kentish Town and the statue outside BBC Broadcasting House, creating a network of sites that celebrate his life and influence.A Meeting Point of Past and Present
Situated in a dynamic urban environment, the Orwell Plaque bridges the past and present, linking the historical significance of Orwell’s writings with the contemporary cultural vibrancy of Notting Hill. The area’s lively atmosphere, combined with the solemnity of the plaque, offers a unique experience that honors literary heritage while celebrating the ongoing life of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
George Orwell Plaque
0.0 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
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Space Apart Hotel
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The Castle
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Kensington War Memorial
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Speke Monument
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Sussex Gardens
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Edward Jenner Memorial
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Queen Victoria Monument
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The Albert Memorial
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Paddington Basin
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The Fan Bridge
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Queen's Tower
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ladbroke Square Garden
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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
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Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
The Gate Picturehouse
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Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Melt Chocolates
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Discover freshly handmade luxury chocolates in Notting Hill’s charming artisan boutique with eco-friendly values and immersive experiences.
Clanricarde Gardens
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Clanricarde Gardens, a hidden gem in London, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature in the bustling city.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
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Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
Westbourne Grove
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Elegant Notting Hill shopping street blending independent boutiques, designer fashion, and acclaimed dining in refined London style.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
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A powerful bronze tribute in London’s Holland Park honoring Saint Volodymyr, the 10th-century prince who Christianized Kievan Rus.
Portobello Rd
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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
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All Saints' Church, Notting Hill
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Victorian Gothic Revival marvel with a towering spire, rich Anglo-Catholic heritage, and a vibrant role in Notting Hill’s cultural tapestry.
Holland Park
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Discover Holland Park’s blend of historic ruins, serene Japanese gardens, vibrant wildlife, and lively cultural events in the heart of West London.
The Notting Hill Bookshop
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The Tabernacle
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Historic Notting Hill venue blending Victorian architecture with vibrant community arts and music culture.
Notting Hill Bike tours
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Discover London’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods on a safe, fun, and engaging bike tour through Notting Hill and beyond.
Essential places to dine
Gold
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Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Core by Clare Smyth
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Granger and Co. Notting Hill
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The Ladbroke Arms
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The Shed
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A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
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Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
Cocotte Notting Hill
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The Ledbury
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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
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Fresh, flavorful sushi and Asian dishes served late in a casual Portobello Road spot with friendly service and gluten-free options.
Osteria Napoletana
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La mia Mamma Notting Hill
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104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
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Alexandrie Restaurant
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Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
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Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant
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Authentic Italian dining in a rustic, cozy setting nestled in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Appletree boutique
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The gift store
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RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
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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
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Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Notting hill store
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Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
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The Blue Door
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Discover stylish clothing and unique hats at The Blue Door, a charming boutique nestled in the lively heart of Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Goldsmith Vintage
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Discover chic vintage treasures at Goldsmith Vintage on bustling Portobello Road, where timeless fashion meets Notting Hill's iconic market charm.
The London Shop
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Hangout Clothing
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Jovonna Notting Hill Boutique
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Good
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Kensington Palace Shop
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Antique Clothing Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
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The Walmer Castle
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The Churchill Arms, Kensington
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Portobello Star
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The Week
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The Little Yellow Door
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The Elgin
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Love
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The Quiet Night Inn
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Prince of Wales
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Metric
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Tabu London
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The Cuckoo Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cultural Heritage
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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