Part of the affluent borough of Kensington, Holland Park is a unique corner of central London. With its grand houses, clean lines and a country-estate feel, it combines urban amenities with spacious living. The living green heart of the area is the eponymous park: 22.5 hectares including abundant woodland, sports and play facilities, and a beautiful Japanese garden.

But Holland Park’s peaceful feel doesn’t mean it’s far from the action. Bordered by bustling Kensington High Street to the south and Notting Hill to the north, it’s a short walk from Portobello Road, and Hyde Park is just across the way. Read on to find out more about this Palladian retreat in the core of the metropolis.

The appeal of Holland Park

Think of Holland Park and you probably think of Holland Park Avenue: the “millionaire’s row” of tall white townhouses inhabited by celebrities ranging from Elton John and Robbie Williams to Richard Branson and Simon Cowell. But you’ll also find charming mews houses, stately villas, luxury flats and neat terraces, all with easy access to the area’s extensive green spaces.

Holland Park is connected to the rest of the city by the Central and District Underground lines, by the Overground, and by a variety of bus routes. Its broad streets and central location also make it ideal to explore on foot or by bike.

Holland Park food and drink

Kensington’s dining culture is vibrant and international. Highlights around Holland Park include family Filipino eatery Romulo Café and Persian classic Apadana, both on Kensington High Street. Nearby, you’ll find the grandiose Belvedere, set in the former ballroom of Holland House.

You’ll also find plenty of casual and family-friendly cafés, bakeries and bistros in and around the park. French favourite Paul has a dedicated Holland Park branch, while coffee aficionados flock to Grounds of Arabia on Holland Park Avenue.

Attractions in Holland Park

The key attraction of Holland Park is of course the park itself. Along with the Kyoto garden and the wild woodland, the park also boasts the stately remains of Holland House. This is the former Jacobean mansion where the great statesman Charles James Fox, son of the first Baron Holland, once hosted the leading minds of his time. Holland House was partly destroyed in the Blitz – but today, it’s an opera theatre with a rich and varied programme.

Art buffs will love the Design Museum, located on Kensington High Street by the south-east corner of Holland Park. Nearby is Leighton House, the home and studio of the Victorian painter and sculptor Frederic, Lord Leighton, who brought together objects and influences from all over the world to create the perfect environment for making art. Across the park in Stafford Terrace is Sambourne House, the former home of illustrator Linley Sambourne. This is a striking example of the Victorian “House Beautiful”.

Holland Park is also close to the grand museums of South Kensington. The V&A, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and more are all within easy – and very pleasant – walking distance.

Family life in Holland Park

Quiet, safe and green, Holland Park is an exceptionally family-friendly area. There is plenty for children to see and do here, starting with the wonderful adventure playground in the park proper, which includes a climbing wall and frames. There is an enclosed play area for smaller children as well, right next door. You’ll also find a whole range of sporting facilities around the park.

Holland Park has a great range of nurseries, schools, clubs and playgroups for children of all ages and stages. With plenty of open-air and indoor places to eat and drink along the way, it’s easy to keep young ones happy and occupied – and there’s great coffee and cake at hand for their parents.

Holland Park property

The quality of life in Holland Park is high, and so is the quality of housing stock. Houses and flats are in high demand here, and we recommend working with a knowledgeable local agent to stay ahead of the competitive market.

Holland Park’s tranquillity makes it a place to live rather than to visit – those who move here tend to stay. Properties often pass from generation to generation, meaning that turnover is low compared to the rest of central London. However, patience is richly rewarded. Whether you’re renting or buying a flat or a house, your new Holland Park home is bound to be beautiful, comfortable and rich in history.

While the area’s grand mansions catch the eye, many house-hunters are drawn to Holland Park Mews and Royal Crescent Mews. There’s a quiet and cosy feel to both, with their charming historic terraces. Others might prefer to live near Holland Park Gate and the big attractions of Kensington, or gravitate to the area north of the park, near Notting Hill Gate. Some look for a flat with a view over the park itself. There are many ways to live here, and all of them are special in their own way.

Finding your niche

Every street in Holland Park has something unique to offer. If you’re planning on moving to Holland Park, the best way to get to know the area is to visit in person. You’ll find a whole spectrum of hotel options nearby, from small and friendly to grand and luxurious. A number of London estate and letting agents have offices here, so you’ll quickly be able to find your feet and start searching for your new London home.

At Cadogan Tate, we’ve been helping people move to London, and within it, since 1977. Whether you’re planning to relocate to Holland Park from close by or further afield, we can make the process much simpler and smoother – all while safeguarding your prized possessions. And with our wide-ranging expertise in moving everything from fine art to old wine to rare pianos, you won’t have to look any further. For more information about our specialist London removals service, or to obtain a bespoke quotation free of charge, just get in touch with our team.