King's Road, Chelsea
Fashion's legendary street where Swinging Sixties style meets contemporary design.
King's Road is one of London's most iconic shopping destinations, stretching over a mile through the heart of Chelsea with more than 160 boutiques, designer stores, and independent shops. Once the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties and punk revolution—home to Mary Quant's miniskirt and Vivienne Westwood's rebellious designs—this legendary street remains a fashion and cultural powerhouse. Today it blends heritage with contemporary style, offering everything from luxury flagships to emerging British designers, alongside galleries, cafes, and acclaimed restaurants.
A brief summary to King's Rd
- London, GB
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a more relaxed shopping experience; weekend afternoons are vibrant but significantly busier.
- Explore side streets and smaller arcades branching from King's Road to discover independent designers and unique boutiques away from the main thoroughfare.
- Start at Sloane Square and work westward; the most interesting shops concentrate along the first kilometre up to Chelsea's old town hall.
- Don't miss Duke of York Square for a curated selection of well-known designers and the Saturday farmers' market featuring local artisan producers.
- Allow time to visit galleries like the Saatchi Gallery and independent bookshops such as John Sandoe Books to experience King's Road's cultural dimension beyond shopping.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground Train
Sloane Square station (Circle and District lines, Zone 1) is the primary access point, located at the eastern end of King's Road near Peter Jones department store. Journey time from central London varies: approximately 8–12 minutes from Leicester Square, 10–15 minutes from King's Cross, or 5–8 minutes from Victoria. Trains run frequently throughout the day, with typical service intervals of 3–5 minutes during peak hours and 5–10 minutes off-peak. This is the most convenient and reliable option for reaching King's Road.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve King's Road directly, including routes 11, 19, 22, and 319, which run along or parallel to the street. Journey times from central London typically range from 20–40 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Buses run regularly throughout the day and evening, with frequencies varying by route and time of day. This option allows flexibility and provides views of London's streets en route.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Black cabs and ride-share services (Uber, Bolt) operate throughout London and can deliver you directly to any point along King's Road. Journey times from central London typically range from 15–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions and starting location. Costs vary significantly based on distance and time of day, with typical fares from central areas ranging from £12–25. This option offers door-to-door convenience but may be more expensive during peak hours.
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Walking
King's Road is walkable from neighbouring Chelsea attractions and South Kensington (approximately 15–20 minutes on level, well-maintained pavements). From Sloane Square station, the walk along King's Road itself is pleasant and flat, suitable for most fitness levels. Walking allows you to discover side streets and hidden gems at your own pace, though comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the full length of the street.
King's Rd location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about King's Rd
A Street That Rewrote Fashion History
King's Road stands as one of London's most storied thoroughfares, a place where fashion rebellion was born and reinvented. In the 1960s, this Chelsea street became the epicentre of Swinging London, where Mary Quant launched the revolutionary miniskirt and transformed youth culture forever. Vivienne Westwood's punk aesthetic followed, turning King's Road into a symbol of creative defiance and style innovation. From King Charles' waistcoat to the tartan two-pieces that defined an era, this street has always been where fashion rules were broken and remade. Today, the legacy of those groundbreaking decades still pulses through its pavements, even as the street has evolved into a sophisticated shopping and cultural destination that honours its rebellious past while embracing contemporary design.A Shopper's Paradise Spanning Over a Mile
Stretching for approximately three kilometres through Chelsea, King's Road offers an unparalleled shopping experience with more than 160 shops, boutiques, and flagship stores. The most concentrated retail activity occurs along the first kilometre, from Sloane Square—where the iconic Peter Jones department store anchors the eastern end—through to Chelsea's old town hall at the intersection with Sydney Street. Peter Jones itself spans eight levels of carefully curated fashion, beauty, homewares, and technology, with a restaurant offering views across Chelsea. Beyond this core stretch, Duke of York Square emerges as a secondary hub, housing dozens of British and international brands alongside restaurants and galleries. The street is a melting pot of styles: luxury flagships like Dolce & Gabbana and Louis Vuitton sit alongside cult independent boutiques, sustainable newcomers, and fresh British designers. Whether seeking high-end fashion, interior design inspiration, or unique vintage finds, King's Road delivers an experience tailored to every taste and budget.Design, Culture, and Creative Discovery
Beyond fashion, King's Road has become a destination for interior design enthusiasts and art lovers. The Conran Shop showcases contemporary furniture and home accessories with meticulous curation, while Anthropologie and Designers Guild offer inspirational homeware collections. The Saatchi Gallery, situated just off the main street, displays cutting-edge contemporary art and emerging artists' installations. Chelsea Antiques Market provides a treasure trove for those seeking period pieces and vintage décor. Independent bookshops like John Sandoe Books, housed in an 18th-century building with colourful window boxes, add literary charm to the retail landscape. This blend of fashion, design, and culture creates an environment where shopping becomes an immersive cultural experience rather than a mere transaction.Dining and Refreshment Along the Way
King's Road offers diverse dining options reflecting both contemporary and traditional British cuisine. The Cadogan Arms, helmed by two Michelin-starred chef James Knappett, serves a carefully curated menu of British classics—crispy lamb ribs, slow-roasted chicken pie, and celebrated Sunday roasts—paired with a wine list of over 100 selections and craft beers from leading UK breweries. RIXO's flagship store, which opened in 2023, features a champagne and coffee bar set within flamboyant interiors centred around a golden bar. Farm Rio's King's Road location showcases Brazilian-inspired design with hand-painted tropical wallpaper and buriti straw fitting rooms, creating an immersive shopping environment. Numerous cafes dot the street, offering perfect spots for people-watching and refuelling between shopping expeditions. Duke of York Square hosts a lively Saturday farmers' market featuring locally grown ingredients, handmade sushi, Scottish fudge, and gourmet popcorn.Accessibility and Practical Considerations
King's Road is easily accessible via Sloane Square Underground station, served by the Circle and District lines in Zone 1. Multiple bus routes serve the street, providing flexible transport options. Most shops maintain consistent opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00. For the most relaxed shopping experience, weekday mornings offer fewer crowds, while weekend afternoons bring vibrant energy alongside significant foot traffic. The side streets branching from King's Road—including those leading to hidden gems like Manolo Blahnik and Biondi Couture—reward exploration with unique boutiques and independent designers. The street's proximity to the River Thames, Battersea Park, and neighbouring South Kensington makes it an ideal base for combining shopping with broader Chelsea exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chelsea Old Town Hall
0.9 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Empire House
0.9 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
37 Thurloe St
1.1 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Little Ben Clock
1.2 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.2 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Historic Houses
1.2 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Wellington Arch
1.3 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Albert Bridge
1.3 km
A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.3 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
1.3 km
A striking WWI memorial at Hyde Park Corner, blending classical art and the harsh realities of mechanized warfare to honor the Machine Gun Corps’ sacrifice.
Cheyne Walk
1.4 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Bomber Command Memorial
1.4 km
A powerful tribute in Portland stone and bronze to the 55,573 RAF Bomber Command aircrew who lost their lives in WWII, set in the heart of Green Park, London.
St Augustine's Church
1.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a hidden gem in London's spiritual landscape.
Statue of Achilles
1.4 km
Discover Apsley House, a stunning monument in London, showcasing the art and history of the Duke of Wellington in an exquisite setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Innofinity Worldwide
0.1 km
Discover Innofinity Worldwide at Sloane Square, London’s trusted destination for quality used iPhones and innovative e-commerce experiences.
Sloane Square
0.1 km
An elegant London square where Chelsea’s luxury shopping, culture and high society meet, centred on the Venus Fountain and framed by Peter Jones and the Royal Court Theatre.
Duke of York Square
0.1 km
Chelsea's elegant fusion of heritage and contemporary culture, where shopping, dining, and art converge in a traffic-free piazza.
St Simon Zelotes
0.4 km
Discover the serene blend of evangelical faith and historic Anglican tradition at St Simon Zelotes in the heart of Chelsea, London.
Royal Hospital Chelsea
0.5 km
Historic home and sanctuary for British Army veterans, blending stunning 17th-century architecture with a living military heritage in London.
Sloane St
0.6 km
Sloane Street: London’s iconic luxury shopping street blending designer boutiques, fine dining, and elegant urban living in Chelsea and Belgravia.
Barts
0.6 km
Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
National Army Museum
0.7 km
Explore the rich history and personal stories of the British Army through interactive galleries and engaging exhibits in Chelsea’s premier military museum.
Big Bus Tours London
0.8 km
Explore London’s iconic landmarks at your own pace with Big Bus Tours’ flexible hop-on hop-off routes and panoramic open-top buses.
Belgrave Square
0.8 km
Belgrave Square: A stately garden square in Belgravia, blending 19th-century elegance with exclusive private gardens and rich diplomatic history.
St Luke’s Gardens
0.8 km
A historic and tranquil Chelsea garden blending Neo-Gothic heritage with vibrant green spaces and family-friendly recreation.
St Luke's & Christ Church
0.8 km
Discover St Luke's & Christ Church, Chelsea — a historic Gothic Revival Anglican parish blending architectural grandeur with vibrant community spirit.
Harrods
0.9 km
Experience the grandeur of London’s largest luxury department store, where over 330 departments and world-class dining await in Knightsbridge.
Knightsbridge
0.9 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Golden Tours, Bulleid Way Departure Point
0.9 km
Explore the best of London with Golden Tours at Bulleid Way, offering diverse guided tours and experiences for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Rabbit
0.7 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
The Grenadier
1.1 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.1 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The English Grill
1.2 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
1.3 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
The Jam
1.3 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Town House Kensington
1.4 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Colosseo Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
1.7 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
1.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
1.8 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
HIDE
1.8 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Caxton Grill
1.8 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
1.9 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
The Pem
1.9 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
0.7 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
V&A Shop
1.1 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
Cool Britannia
1.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Science Museum Shop
1.3 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
1.3 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Buckingham Palace Shop
1.3 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
1.4 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.5 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Rococo Chocolates King's Road
1.5 km
Discover handcrafted British chocolates and immersive workshops at Rococo Chocolates, a refined artisan boutique on London's iconic King's Road.
Shepherd Market
1.8 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Thomas Goode & Co
1.9 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
Lock & Co. Hatters
2.0 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
John Lobb St. James
2.0 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
2.0 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
2.1 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
0.9 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
Bbar
1.2 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The New York Bar
1.2 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
K Bar
1.4 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.6 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
All Bar One Victoria
1.6 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.7 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Bar 190
1.7 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
Adam & Eve
1.8 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Below
1.8 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Blue Boar Pub
2.0 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Two Chairmen
2.1 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Morpeth Arms
2.1 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
Westminster Arms
2.2 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Builders Arms
2.2 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Scenic
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
- Bohemian Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- 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
- Myth & Legends
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
- Business Friendly
