PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY - A RIDE FOR CHARITY
Over the summer months, we decided to catch up with some of the people in our local community. We work and live side by side and in the rush of London life, sometimes forget to stop and have a chat. So I decided to stop by and have a coffee with Marcus Roberts from Daylesford, Westbourne grove.
Some of you may already know this bubbly and joyful character who embarked on a charity bike ride across Croatia to raise over £400,000 for The Felix Project. By himself, Marcus raised a fantastic £38,000. But the best bit is how his infectious passion and personality led to some big names joining him on his mission. If you haven’t yet heard about The Felix Project, it is an amazing charity which works hard to stop food poverty. They campaign and work alongside restaurants and supermarkets to ensure that food does not go to waste but goes to those who need it.
Marcus tells me a bit about his own journey to being passionate about food for wellbeing and we talk about health, nutrition and healthy living. The Felix Project distributes food through a wonderful team of dedicated volunteers to people who are homeless, shelters, food banks and individuals or families in need.
Marcus tells me that he didn’t ride a bike before this challenge presented itself and now with increased fitness, rides to work most days. He is also amazed and humbled by how much of a snowball effect his enthusiasm has had on unsuspecting locals, particularly one who had just popped into Daylesford for their morning coffee and somehow ended up on a plane to Croatia! By talking to customers and colleagues, Marcus managed to persuade most if not all of the regular customers to sponsor him and even talked Julien Macdonald into participate in the charity race!
This is real community spirit and we love that Notting Hill has this feel!
On the 26th of June, over 50 riders set off for Croatia to complete this charity bike race, including some of the UK’s well-known names who support and stand by The Felix Project and it’s amazing work.Here’s what happened, in Marcus’s words, after completing the race. Well done Marcus, thank you for sharing your journey and passion. Fantastic work!
"On the 26th of June Ben Elliot co-founder of Quintessentially, legendary British Fashion Designer Julien Macdonald, and I flew off to Croatia on the 11th Annual Quintessentially Foundation Charity Bike Ride which was this year sponsored the Marc Group and in partnership with Velusso in aid of The Felix Project with a team of 50 other cyclists.
Landing in Zagreb Croatia during one of the hottest heatwaves ever recorded in Europe with temperatures in France reaching up to 45 degrees, the team of determined men and women who were prepared to give their all to support The Felix Project by cycling for 300 miles from Zagreb to Split to try to raise as much for them as possible.
Starting out on the first stretch of open road on day one, it was 5:30 in the morning and the team had decided to start us all off early because of the extreme heat so that we were out of the midday sun for as long as possible. Straddling my bike, it felt satisfying as I clicked my SPD shoes into the pedals and set off with the team about to start the adventure of a lifetime.
Riding alongside Ben Elliot, who founded Quintessentially Foundation and people like Jasper Boyton, George Frost son of legendary broadcaster Sir David Frost and Simon Jackson and Lord Jeffery Archers son James Archer, who were all extremely fit and regular professional cyclists, I felt on top of the world and so proud of how far I had come in my fitness journey. After a few hours, it all got too much and I slowed down to settle in with a group of other cyclists further in the back of the pack. Keeping up with super fit Ben, just wasn’t sustainable!
As the second day approached we were all feeling a bit sore and it was starting to sink in just how difficult this trip was going to be. Climbing up a massive hill in 37 degree heat, I kept pushing myself through the sweat and exhaustion until I couldn’t anymore more and was physically sick and had to get in the back of the van for half an hour. After lunch I was feeling better and was out on the road again, eager to be getting those miles under my belt.
One of my personal highlights was when exhausted and tired after cycling for miles in such hot weather, Julien Macdonald came whizzing by on his bike, shouting, “get up Marcus, we can do this, jump back on ya bike and follow me”! With loud 80’s discos music blasting from some speakers on his bike. So I did. And we cycled together for miles on end with the tunes blasting and our spirits feeling lifted by the music, giving us the energy we needed to keep going and carry on.
On the last day as we were all cycling down a massive hill on the final decent into the port of Split, I was going over 60 miles an hour, speeding alongside cars and trucks, with their horns blaring, constantly afraid one would accidentally swerve and knock me off the sheer cliff face, but at the same time excited and never feeling as alive as I had in my whole entire life.
Arriving at the finish on beach in Split, after cycling for 300 miles across Croatia in the searing heat during one of the hottest recorded heatwaves in Europe, I collapsed as I got of my bike and walked up to the finish line to collect my medal. Feeling exhausted, tired, sore and with extreme swelling and pain, I was absolutely shattered, but also very proud that I had managed to do it and at the same time somehow managed to personally raise over £36,000 for The Felix Project on my Virgin Money Giving Page at the same time.
Special thanks to Leonora, George, Alice and Lord and Lady Bamford for their encouragement and consistent support. George Osborne, Nick Jones, Liv Tyler, Poppy Delevingne, Suki Waterhouse, Geordie Grieg, Steven Knight, Nick Compton, Miel Debotton, Tom Parker Bowles, Janet Debotton, Lord Greg Barker, Marlon Abela, Giles Coren, and so many of the regular customers at the Daylesford Organic Farm Shop on Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill where I regularly work, for their extremely kind donations and sponsorship.
The event was a great success and raised over £410,000. The funds raised will support the work of The Felix Project who are fighting food poverty and food waste across London. Every week The Felix Project rescues 30 tonnes of high-quality food, which is distributed to over 250 charities and schools across London.
Ben Elliot himself via his Quintessentially Foundation has helped raise over £2 million for The Felix Project over the last 2 years with high profile fundraising events such as the bike ride and the yearly much loved Christmas Carol Concert the Fayre of St James which is held in November in St James’s church Piccadilly.
Some people talk the talk, but Ben really walks the walk too, there’s no better person that Michael Gove could of chosen to be the nation’s Food Surplus and Waste Champion and it’sfantastic to see him in action as he steps up to the plate in the fight against food waste".
““This year's Quintessentially Foundation Annual Charity Bike Ride was in support of Britain’s most dynamic new charity The Felix Project, that is at the forefront of the fight against food waste. A cause very close to my heart as the governments Food Surplus and Waste Champion. The money raised from the bike ride will be enough to fully fund their Central London operations for the next 2 years. Myself and the whole team at Quintessentially Foundation couldn’t be more proud.” Ben Elliot.
“I’ve always been a b
ig fan of Daylesford and the delicious range of organic food they sell which they grow themselves on their farm in Gloucestershire. I particularly like their organic coffee which I regularly come in to get on most mornings from the store on Westbourne Grove which is handily located just round the corner from my studio on Ledbury Road and am served by the ever cheerful and welcoming Marcus who persuaded me to take part in the recent Quintessentially Foundation Charity Bike Ride to support The Felix Project.” Julien Macdonald
Written by Ma
rcus Roberts, Relationship Manager for the Felix Project.
You can find Marcus at Daylesford on Westbourne Grove 3 days a week, the rest of his time is spent supporting The Felix Project.
You can find out more about The Felix Project and how you can help here
DO YOU KNOW YOUR LOCAL HISTORY? A LOOK INTO NOTTING HILL'S COLOURFUL PAST.
I snapped some shots of St Johns Church for our Instagram page. The sun was setting, radiating its beaming rays across the church steeple and gracing the trees with a last few rays of light.
On my daily travels around the area, I often pause to capture a moment in the life of Notting Hill. From front doors to churches or flowers, depending on the time of day, or how the sun falls, the streets lined with grand houses painted bright white, greys and shades of pastel colours, take on their own mood.
Back at the office, showing the photos to Nigel, Owner and Director at Homesite, he gave me a bit of background history about the church and its surroundings.
Did you know that it used to be a racecourse?' said Nigel
Oh wow, I said, I didn't know". I love horses, and I have lived in Notting Hill for over two decades. So I did a little more digging.
It turns out that the Ladbroke Estate has a rich history which explains this beautifully shaped crescent that forms Lansdowne Crescent and surrounding private green spaces. The land belonged to James Weller Ladbroke. It was, and still is part of the Ladbroke Estate, spanning over 140 acres of sloping land towards Notting Hill, and across Westbourne Grove, lay soft green fields.
In 1837, Ladbroke leased the land to James Whyte, a businessman whose ambitions it was to turn the space into the 'Kensington Hippodrome,' a racecourse for London. Racetracks were at a popular pass time, and Whyte thought that this racecourse would serve London better than other hippodromes such as Epsom Downs and Ascot, which were much further away.
The race course ran from Lansdowne crescent, across Ladbroke Grove and over to Stanley Crescent forming the landscape of the track. The grassy hill upon which St Johns Church sits once served as a fantastic public viewing point, offering a prime position to watch the race that took place in the gentle slopes below.
The new venue received mixed opinions from the British press, whilst The Times criticised its Prime London location, the Sporting publication described it as 'the most perfect racecourse.' As well as attracting London's aristocracy, it was also widely attended by poorer members of the community, the farmers of the "Potteries and Piggeries" of Pottery Lane. The racecourse was built, much to Whyte's frustration, across a right of way which affected the farmers of Notting Dale, causing much contention through the racecourses lifespan. These visitors were not welcome on the land, and the ongoing clashes gave the place a less favourable reputation. Over a few years, the venue faded in popularity and started to run into financial difficulty, even after changing its name to 'Victoria Park- Bayswater,' the racecourse was failing. In 1842, James Whyte handed the land back to its owner and previous plans resumed to build property. The Victorian houses now standing on these near perfect semi-circles crescents maintain the shape of the former racecourse and the earlier designs of 1820 loosely revived, shaping the streets into the rows of period houses we see today.
Lansdowne Crescent is a mix of architecture as it has evolved through time. Consisting of a unique gothic Tudor double-fronted dwelling to the eastern side, which, in 1846, was the first property to be registered, to the stucco fronted townhouses constructed slightly later by William Reynolds, a builder turned property developer. To the western side, somewhat newer Victorian style architecture built in the 1860s' can be found in an array of pastel colours. In 1944 designed Joshua Higgs, St John's Church was built. Now a grade II listed building, this place of worship was constructed from Kentish Ragstone, which was a popular construction material for churches at the time. Then known as 'St John in the Hayfields' due to its rural location, it was the highpoint of the racecourse and centre-place of the Ladbroke estate.
Nowadays, one can walk the ring of the racecourse to find some of Notting Hill's most luxurious homes, grand architecture spanning across the 19th & 20th century, and a peek into some the greenest private spaces remaining in London. Remnants of the Estate's history still mark the land.
Some of Notting Hill’s history can be spotted on a local stroll through the streets of Ladbroke Estate. St Johns Church sign displays information about the land’s horsey past. A walk around the crescent and its grand buildings bares a few signs of their age, and the last remaining pottery stands on Pottery Lane on further exploration of the streets of Notting Dale
Read more about the different period architectures on Lansdowne Crescent:
http://www.ladbrokeassociation.info/LANSDOWNECRESCENT.htm
Read the history of the "Potteries and Piggeries" of Pottery Lane:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pottery_Lane
For more information about the Ladbroke Estate and its history:
http://www.ladbrokeassociation.info/HISTORYOFTHELADBROKEAREA.htm
LUXURY LIVING IN LONDON. A LOOK AT NOTTING HILL'S CURRENT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS.
The Television Centre- W12
The iconic Television Centre built to house the British Broadcasting Corporation (The BBC) located on Wood Lane, London W12, was first inaugurated by Her Royal Majesty, Queen Elisabeth, in 1961. Since then, the BBC has seen an impressive array of British and International celebrities walk through its doors and into its grand lobby. Shows such as Doctor Who, Top of the Pops and in more recent times the Graham Norton show, have all been produced here. The BBC has since relocated its operations, and the Television Centre is currently undergoing redevelopment which will contain around 1000 new homes, several retail units, offices, and eateries.
The first phase of the new development is now complete and boasts 432 luxury apartments across two buildings, Helios and Crescent. The apartments are designed in a thoughtful and stylish manner, catered to high spec, luxury city living. In case this isn’t luxury enough for an urbanite, the ‘Architects’ Series’ offers a range of premium apartments and penthouses consciously designed by the most prominent architects for truly optimal and decadent living. Phase two, which is planned to begin work in the coming months, will see the construction of a further 500 high-end homes.
Through the communal areas of the development, the attention to detail and decadence flows seamlessly. The renowned main lobby that welcomed countless famous faces over the years has been restored to its original splendour including the grade II listed mosaic by British artist, John Piper. Residents can now enjoy this lounge space to relax and watch the world go by. This new high-end development will also benefit from a 24-hour concierge service and access to a private gym, swimming pool and spa. It also houses a Cinema complex, a 45-bedroom hotel, shops, and some great names in food such as Bluebird café, made famous by ‘Made in Chelsea’ and Patty&Bun. Complete with a private members’ including a roof terrace with views over the Television’s Centre forecourt, this is city slicker style at its best in the heart of West London.
With all amenities at one’s fingertips, The Television Centre is ideally located, with very convenient access to the central line from White City tube station, and minutes’ walk to Westfield shopping centre. It’s a vibrant piece of London property in a great location, whether to live or as an investment. This is city living at its most stylish, and where better in London than the iconic British Broadcasting Corporation?
To find out more about apartments to rent or buy in this development, please give us a call or pop us an email.
For more information about the development here.
Whiteleys Development
Whiteleys Shopping Centre closed its doors at the end of 2018 for a total overhaul. The development will contain 85 new homes including a mix of apartments and townhouses along Redan Place to the rear of the building, and is due for completion in 2022/2023. This new mixed-use development is not just about creating new homes, as well as residential units, the redevelopment of the former shopping centre is set to offer an enhanced shopping and dining experience. There will be a variety of restaurants, retail units, a courtyard to one side and an extended pedestrian area along Queensway, allowing a more leisurely environment. This project is set to bring new business into the area and regenerate one of London’s architectural landmarks.
First opened in 1863 as a ‘fancy goods’ store by entrepreneur William Whiteley, Whiteleys became one of the first ‘modern department stores,’ one massive shop where you could buy almost anything. It was a vibrant and successful business serving surrounding residents and providing employment to over 5000 people in its hay day.
Remodelled in 1911, Whiteley’s became the grade II listed building we see today. With its sculpted columns, elegant long windows, and grand entrances, the building is characterised by bronze balconies and glass domes. Its signature central staircase which spirals to the 3rd floor whilst light beams down from to the glass dome above sets the tone for this building's style. At Christmas time, Whiteley’s shopping centre was truly delightful, housing one of the tallest Christmas trees and Santa’s grotto in its main hall, this atmosphere was symbolic of this shopping centre’s character.
The charm of this building has not gone unnoticed in its refurbishment. Its grade II listed structures including its windows, wrought ironwork, glass domes, and the decadent staircase will be preserved through the reconstruction work, and it will be interesting to see how the design will incorporate this building’s features. The residential units will comprise 1, 2, 3 and four bedroom apartments and at the premium end, there will be several duplexes, corner units, and penthouses. These will be designed like no other residence in London due to the unique features of this building. Complete with retail and eateries on its doorstep, a gym, swimming pool and spa available to residents, this will be an undeniably stylish development.
Westminster council has had significant involvement in the proposed redevelopment of Queensway & will extend the pavement to create a larger pedestrianised area. This project has been a long time coming and is now underway. This development, worth over £1billion, will have a significant impact on values to property in the area, as well as a providing a new space for retail and dining within a stone's throw of Hyde Park and Notting Hill.
For more information, you can visit the project website.
Basing Street Development- The SARM Studios
Much to the sadness of many music lovers who have fond memories of great bands attending this famous recording studio. The former Basing Street Studio is undergoing a reconfiguration into mixed residential and commercial use. It has housed both SARM and Island Records, and over time, has seen a host of world-famous musical artists including the likes of the Rolling Stones, Bob Marley & The Wailers came here to work on the Exodus album. George Michaels recorded Careless Whispers here. Other artists who have recorded here include some of the best-known pop songs, such as Alicia Keys, Genesis, The Who, Roxy Music, John Martyn, The Pet Shop Boys, Jethro Tull, Squeeze and Madonna, ‘Stairway to Heaven’ by Led Zeppelin and Queen’s ‘We Are the Champions.’ Kylie Minogue, Take That and Rihanna are some of the few who have been known to record at Basing Street Studios. The most famous memory for many was the recording of the original Band Aid charity single “Do they know it’s Christmas’ in 1984.
Even before its days of music and rhythm, the former chapel has a rich and intriguing history. Originally built as a church, it was later deconsecrated and used as a storeroom and workshop for one of London’s famous Madame Tussauds. The old church then began its life as a studio in 1969, and over the years has been known as Basing Street Studios.
This 17th century chapel with its funky and colourful history will comprise nine swanky London pads in total. This prime London real estate is a very cool London address in Notting Hill W11. The redeveloped building will also continue its musical legacy by including a high-tech office space alongside a recording studio.
What a fantastic way to own an iconic piece of music history of our time! This is the perfect London pad for a creative who wants their own slice of urban rhythm.
You can read more about its planning stages here
THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND KENSINGTON
As local estate agents, it is easy to fall in love with the charm of the area in which we work. From the north to the south of Kensington, it is plain to see that its charisma and history is felt through its buildings, shops and its beautiful period properties.
A stroll away from Notting Hill Gate, to the south of the borough, lies Kensington. This part of Kensington and Chelsea has a traditional feel. It is quieter than Notting Hill and Bayswater but still has a life of its own that is grounded in its own rhythm. It’s a slightly more family orientated area and has retained some of its larger houses and more relaxed feel. That said, Kensington has a lot to offer and is not short on nightlife, eateries as well as places for the whole family.
Once a vibrant and bustling high street, home to some of the largest retail names including the giant Barkers department store and the world’s most beautiful Biba store, nowadays, Kensington has a more relaxed atmosphere. There is still a great choice of retail shopping, but this pretty high street has become well-known for its cafes and restaurants. High St Kensington has retained its charm and has some longstanding resident eateries that have stood the test of time and popularity.
One of Kensington’s long term restaurants is Bill Wyman’s Sticky Fingers. This American style eatery has been a resident since 1989. Established by Wyman, the legendary Rolling Stone’s bass guitarist, it is still a firm local favourite. It has a Hard Rock café style yet has a more personal feel. It’s a popular choice, has some fun nights and is a great choice for the whole family. Barbecue wings and burgers will indeed leave you with a full stomach and sticky fingers as you appreciate the walls of photo framed rock stars set in time across the walls.
A unique place worth mentioning is the Unique Kensington roof gardens. Owned by Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, the iconic rooftop garden consists of over an acre of green space which towers 150 meters above street level. The former night club and restaurant occupied the top two floors of this beautiful grade II listed art deco building, which has now closed its doors to restore the space to renew this unique setting. The garden hosts to a variety of fawn and flora; this includes its iconic resident flamingos and ducks who have now been relocated to a sanctuary. In terms of nature, it is home to 70 mature trees including oaks and fruit trees. The Garden is set to reopen at the beginning of 2020 where you will be able to enjoy amazing uninterrupted views across London.
One of the most impressive food courts in London is Wholefoods, the first wholefoods store in Europe store which took over the premises of the former Barkers department store in 2007, and it still holds prime position on Kensington High Street. There is no lack of choice here, this health food store spans over three floors and contains approx 80,000 square feet of organic food, including eateries such as Bone daddy and Sushi and Robata on the first floor. Alternatively, you can take your deli food upstairs or sip on your freshly brewed coffee while enjoying the view over High-Street Kensington. Ranging from its cheese room to nuts, coffee beans, precooked food and a beautiful colourful section of fruit and vegetables to choose from, there is really nothing you cannot find here. They have a great selection of every health product you could desire. Did I mention the huge choice of organic chocolate bars of all descriptions?
Kensington High street is well positioned for green spaces in Central London, at each end of the high street, there is a beautiful park to enjoy. At one end, you can walk through Kensington Gardens, take in the sights of the Palace or stroll along towards the Albert Memorial (picture), towards Knightsbridge and Central London. At the other end of the High Street, you can find the ever popular Holland Park which is the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s largest park and spans over 22 hectares. The park has a variety of green areas including a football, games green, tennis courts, children’s play area, an ecology centre, and wild forest walks. It is also home to the beautiful and serene Kyoto gardens, the park’s Japanese garden which was gifted by the chamber of commerce of Kyoto in 1991 from which the London garden takes its name
To see more about the activities at Holland Park, you can visit the borough’s website:
https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/parks/holland-park
Kensington church street winds its way up to Notting Hill Gate passing a number of antique shops which have clustered there over time. Some of the worlds most renowned experts are based here, offering a variety of art and antiques from different eras and from across the globe. This high concentration of registered and approved art and antique shops created a circle of authenticity and gave the road a reputation for quality fine art and antiques.
For a little bit of British traditionalism, one can meander through the quieter side streets. I love to walk through Church Row, stuck in a period of its own, this little row of quaint shops sells items such as suits, cuff links, ladies’ hats, and bow ties. It’s a step back in time and a pleasant moment of repose from the busy streets of Central London.
Further to the south of the borough, fringing the river Thames, Chelsea is well known for vibrant Kings Road, famous for being a fashionista’s hang-out in the ‘60s, and punks congregated during the ‘70s. It has preserved some of its individual designer boutiques. In more recent times, it has featured in Made in Chelsea, and the Saatchi Gallery has made its home there. Its local residents include the popular Bluebird café and the iconic art deco design Peter Jones department store.
There is plenty to do in and around the area and for central London has a softer pace with wide sunny roads. South Kensington is also home to the world famous Royal Albert Hall for some of the top cultural events to see. A stone's through away is Exhibition road which is home to some of the UK’s most visited museums including the remarkable national History museum.
GEORGIAN, VICTORIAN OR EDWARDIAN HOUSES. WHICH PERIOD IS YOUR HOUSE?
We always read property ads and see phrases such as 'original Victorian features' or 'beautiful Georgian townhouse’. But how can we tell the difference between the periods and their characteristic features? Let's have a look to find out.
Georgian architecture 1714-1830s’
Spanning through the reigns of George the I, II, III and IV. Influenced by the Tudor period, Georgian architecture remained based on classical ideas of construction. Inner London Georgian houses were easy to build in symmetrical rows and incorporated the internal dimensions for the needs of the families of its time.
Georgian houses are recognisable from a number of features:
- One of the most noticeable features are the flat, shallow and squared roofs with small windows jutting from the eaves.
- Elongated rectangular windows which are the largest on the raised ground and first floor where the family would have spent their time. The windows become smaller towards the top of the building as this would have been the servants living quarters
- Stucco fronted external ground floor (especially regency houses), this may also include stucco cornices.
- Columns and proportions are symmetrical. The frontage is straight and flush stem from classical styles preceding this era.
- It is typical to find a fan window often positioned above the front door
- Oil lamp and extinguisher are now rare features which you may still find on the street in front of the property
- Many Georgian houses had small back yards, but not front gardens and pathways. This concept came later, with the Victorian era which was more grand and opulent with wide tiled garden paths leading to a grand front door.
- Cast iron railings at the front of the property is another tell-tale sign of this period.
Internally, these properties are generally laid out over three to four floors. Kitchens were usually in the basement. The ground and first floor typically have large, high windows. The rooms were spacious, boxy and squared, with symmetrical and generous proportions, boasting the fabulous high ceilings which are a well-loved feature of these period properties today. One of the most visible clues is the intricacy of the ceiling plasterwork found in genuine Georgian residences.
Examples:
There are many examples of Georgian architecture in London which can be found in Belgravia, Mayfair, Bloomsbury, and Fitzrovia.
Most famously, Number 10 Downing Street was constructed in true Georgian style.
The mansions that line regents park are an excellent example of this period and in Camden,
Little Green street consists of a small row of grade II listed houses from the Georgian period, although this example is not in the most opulent style, they are an excellent example of traditional Georgian characteristics.
Houses you can visit include the Benjamin Franklin house (near Trafalgar Square). Benjamin Franklin lived here for 16 years in the mid-1700s’ and is open to the public.
Dennis Severs House- Folgate Street, this house is part of the row of Georgian terrace houses and is open to visits to explore this era of London history and architecture.
Victorian Architecture 1837-1901s’
Compared to the previous period, the Victorians retained some of the features of Georgian grandeur and symmetry but wanted to show more wealth and abundance leading to more ornate and elaborate design details.
Heavily influenced by the renaissance and gothic revival movement, homes from this period were more opulent than their predecessors. Victorian architecture moves away from classic form and more towards individual expression with some gothic influence leading to a more detailed and intricate style.
Features:
- Pointed roofs, sometimes decorated with wooden beams, roof gables, dormers
- Bay sash windows
- Tiled garden paths, sometimes in colourful patterns
- Steeply pitched roofs which are great for loft conversions
- A more complicated architecture. Porches, bay windows
- Larger and more regular shaped bricks than previously handmade ones
- Stained glass panes
- Ornamented ridge tiles on the roof
- Wooden barge boards around the rook and possibly a decorative finial
- Garden both at the front and back
This era saw the implementation of window tax, which levied a fee determined by the number of windows in ones’ property. The more windows a property had, the richer the owner was considered. This led to many shrewd property owners bricking up unnecessary windows, a feature which is visible today on many streets in and around Notting Hill. This tax was abolished in 1851, making way for buildings such Leaden-hall. This beautiful indoor London market is covered by a series of windows that would not have been possible a few years previously, similarly Paddington and other stations are built in the same way.
Internally, this period continued to construct large spacious homes. Victorian design saw kitchens moved from the basement to the ground floor at the back of the house. Dado rails become popular. And with opulence came rich, dark colours and fireplaces in every room.
Examples:
Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Primrose Hill, and Hampstead display some excellent examples of Victorian architecture. Buildings such as Big Ben or Kings Cross station perfectly demonstrate the lines of the style of the Victorian era with its points, grandiose style, and ornate details. The Houses of Parliament are also an example of Victorian/Gothic style.
In Kensington and Chelsea, Au outstanding example of Victorian architecture is 18 Stafford terrace in Kensington. The house remains in true design, including the internal décor, and is open to the public to share the Sambourne family history and show Victorian style in its original form.
https://londonist.com/2016/05/georgian-or-victorian-how-to-tell-london-s-architecture-eras
Edwardian architecture 1901–1918
The Edwardian period marks a return to the classical while retaining a touch of Victorian pointiness and style. Whilst these properties keep design aspects from both of the previous eras, they are slightly less ornate than their predecessors. These grand houses tend to be found in more suburban areas due to their footprint and layout. These properties were built to suit the needs of their time, taking into account the change in socio-economic conditions,
Features:
- One of the most common features of an Edwardian home is a front porch- this was the period of front porches. It was must have to keep up with the Jones’s, and porch indicated one's financial standing. The more well-off, the more intricate the design of the porch.
- These properties were typically laid out over two floors on larger plots of land. Although built with fewer rooms, these tended to be more spacious than previous eras.
- Many Edwardian houses have wooden painted balconies on the first floor.
- This new period of design no longer included servant living quarters due to the effects of world war I when domestic staff had moved away from service and into factory work.
Internally, wider hallways, lighter colours through the living quarters characterise this period. Duel aspects rooms became fashionable as did French windows opening out to the back garden. Another popular feature of Edwardian homes was parquet floors.
Examples:
Ealing and Putney provide good examples of Edwardian architecture in central London. The Mapesbury area in Kilburn and around Willesden Green also consist of houses from this period.
In North Kensington, houses from this period are found along St Quintin’s avenue W10. Oxford gardens and surrounding roads are also good examples of grand Edwardian architecture.
For period properties to buy in Notting Hill & Holland Park- Click here
For period properties in Bayswater & Queensway- Click here
For period properties in Kensington- Click here
THE BEST PLACES TO EAT IN NOTTING HILL
As Estate Agents Notting Hill based, we don’t just know about property, we know about transport links, local schools, parks, shopping and most importantly good places to eat. We’ve put together a selection of eateries, some hidden gems known only to local residents and some favorite hotspots that bring people to Notting Hill to experience:
Ottolenghi: a deli-style eatery on trendy Ledbury road. They prepare a healthy and appealing selection of salads with a Mediterranean touch, topped with pomegranates or their signature tahini dressing which is delicious. Their choice of inspired cakes, pastries, and huge meringues, served with a pot of tea are a welcome break from a busy shopping day on Westbourne Grove or Portobello Road. Find them at 63 Ledbury Rd- W11 2AD
The Granger: Owned by Australian chef Bill Granger, who has a small selection of restaurants worldwide. He is also known as a food writer for recipes and cookbooks as well as writing for newspapers and magazines. Popular for its breakfasts and buzzing atmosphere, the Notting Hill restaurant has a walk-in policy and attracts a queue of hungry food lovers waiting to be seated. It has a very international feel, and the pancakes are delicious. Find them at 175 Westbourne Grove- London W11 2SB
Kensington Park Gardens Road offers a nice selection of Italian restaurants and cocktail bars. There are lots of good places to eat, and it has a very Notting Hill feel. It houses restaurants such as Osteria Basilico which serves typical Italian food, antipasti, oven-baked pizza, and other traditional dishes as well as good wines. Other restaurants and cocktail bars include E&O, situated on the corner which serves delicious Pan-Asian food and a wide range of drinks. There is plenty to choose from, and they all carry a touch of local atmosphere. Find them at 29 Kensington Park Gardens- W11 2EU
Spanish square: It’s a busy square with a Spanish feel, there are a couple of restaurants, La Plaza is the most well-known, but they all serve Spanish style cuisine. There is lots of seating outside in the square and a range of tapas and wine on offer. It’s a little meetup hub for friends to socialise over food, and it’s always busy due to its central Portobello location. You can watch the colours of Portobello road while having nibbles of tapas. Find them at LaPlaza74 Tavistock Rd- W11 1AN
Pizza East: Spending a day meandering Portobello Market? If you make it to the very end, you will arrive at Pizza East. It has a rustic atmosphere, family orientated, although on Saturdays it does get busy. They offer an Italian style menu with antipasti, pizza and pasta dishes as well as a selection of wines and cocktails. Go there on a weekday, and you will find local families having lunch. A quiet and relaxed feel and space for little ones too. Outside seating on the pavement is available, and it’s a nice place to sit and watch the world go by. Find them at 310 Portobello Rd- W10 5TA
Taqueria: This local gem serves Mexican food and is widely known for its amazing tacos. Their roots are grounded in Portobello where they first traded in the market before moving to their current location where they have now been for over 12 years. The restaurant is a favorite among local residents both due to its delicious flavours and friendly service. Lunch or dinner, tacos at the Taqueria is a good idea. Find them at 141- 143 Westbourne Grove- W11 2RS
The Fish Shop on Notting hill gate. This Italian run fish and chip shop makes, in my humble opinion, the best batter, it’s light, it’s crispy, and it’s not oily. It’s not the only fish and chip shop in the area, and I could not go on without mentioning the Chipping Sodbury on All Saints road for a peaceful and equally delicious evening meal. The Fish Shop is always busy. You can also order a takeaway- either way; it’s delicious! Tip: If you still have a little spot left for dessert, you can go to the shop next door to have fantastic ice cream, I mean gelato! Find them at 29 Pembridge Rd- W11 3HG
The Farmacy: Set in a decadent airy décor, the Farmacy offers a plant-based menu. Colourful brunches, healthy takes on a number of traditional meals and their earth bowl selection of world dishes recreated in a healthy heart-warming bowl of goodness. They emphasis activated ingredients giving you optimal nutrition. They offer a great variety of beverages from fresh and healthy juices and hot drinks from cacao hot chocolate, matcha latte, and artisan coffees. Find them at 74- 76 Westbourne Grove- W11 5SH
Redemption: If you are looking for vegan options, you can head to Redemption. This plant-based café/restaurant has a wide selection of healthy juices, hot drinks. Their menu is creative vegan take on a number of well-known dishes and includes brunch bowls, lunch dishes such as pulled jack fruit burger, zucchini, and risotto. Their drinks selection includes healthy options such as turmeric latte, rich hot cacao with lashings of coconut cream and topped with edible flowers. Eating at Redemption is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Find them at 6 Chepstow Rd- W2 5BH
Rum Kitchen: This Caribbean themed eatery offers you a tropical vibe the moment you walk through the door. As you look around, everyone is sipping an elaborate cocktail of some kind and chatting over the beat of the reggae music. The menu has a mouth-watering choice of Caribbean inspired dishes, served with chips, sweet potato or plantain fries. It’s a nice place to have a bite to eat and get a feel for some of the cultural diversity of Notting Hill. Find them at 6-8 All Saints Rd- W11 1HH.
Maggie Jones: This is our wild card! This rustic French style dining is not the average dining experience. Maggie Jones offer a slightly alternative and seasonal menu with dishes including seasonal game. Their delightful dishes are rustic, real and the atmosphere is of food lovers’ excitement. It’s a must try if you enjoy a menu with hardy dishes with a touch of French flair. Find them at 6 Old Court Place- W8 4PL
The Ledbury: A fine dining experience in the heart of Notting Hill. Tucked away behind manicured hedges, The Ledbury, a relatively demure yet sleek restaurant, boasts 2 Michelin stars and is well known among London foodies. The Ledbury has a long reputation for its food, wines, and atmosphere. You need a reservation here as they can get booked weeks in advance. It’s a must fine dining experience if you are a real food lover. Find them at 127 Ledbury Road- W11 2AQ
WHERE IS THE BLUE DOOR FROM THE FILM NOTTING HILL?
Notting Hill attracts thousands of visitors each year; it is home to Portobello Market, one of the most renowned markets in the world. Famous for appearing in films such as Bedknobs and Broomsticks, Paddington Bear and most famously, Hugh Grant’s Notting Hill featuring Julia Roberts. Visitors come to Portobello Road to see this colourful market as well as explore the streets in search of the famous blue door.
The world famous Notting Hill blue door is the second door on Westbourne Park Road, number 280. As you stroll through Portobello Road, you will reach what is now a Starbucks on the corner of Westbourne park road and Portobello Road. The second door, a large blue door with tall white columns on each side is the famous door from the film. You will surely find other visitors congregating on the corner, map in hand, looking for it so that they can snap that signature shot standing in front of the door. Once you have seen it and recalled that scene from the film, you can head around the corner to find the film’s other popular landmarks.
Well, the bookshop is another matter. Many people take photos outside the blue travel bookshop on Blenheim Crescent. However, this is not the book shop from the film. It’s an easy mistake to make as it fits the description and is a very pretty little bookshop which has a traditional and quaint feel. The book shop from the film no longer exists, if ever it was a bookshop, this is why so many people pass it by. The location of the shop featured in the film is number 142 Portobello Road. It has a sign above the name of the shop, and one on the side wall with the title: ‘The Travel Bookshop.’ From the front, it is now a souvenir shop and resembles little from the décor in the actual film. It’s just a nice little fact to know, so grab a photo with the sign and head down the road to the Notting Hill bookshop for a real book shop selfie. And if in doubt, ask a local, a market trader or a Notting Hill estate agent to point you in the right direction!
As I stand on Portobello road, waiting for my 2.30 appointment to arrive, I observe the steady flow of excited faces as they finally find the right door. As local estate agents, we spend a fair amount of time walking to and from properties, and it seems to be a frequent question asked in many different accents:
“Where is the blue door from the film Notting Hill?”
“Do you know where to find the book shop from the film Notting Hill? “
Pointing them in the right direction, they hurry excitedly in the direction of the Notting Hill Film landmarks. Thoughts trail off to city breaks where that has been me, running eagerly towards a sight of my interests. I smile as I fumble around in my bag for the keys to the next property, a smart two-bedroom flat for rent, in a prime Notting Hill location.
Once you have had your photo fill, Portobello has a wide range of foods, depending on the day you choose to visit, Friday and Saturday markets offer a colourful choice of street foods. Portobello caters to all tastes, from Italian to Caribbean, and Spanish tapas. If you have a sweet tooth, you can enjoy a gorgeous cupcake from Hummingbird, famous for its amazing red velvet cupcake. Notting Hill has a vast range of cafes to choose from, where you can watch the world go by and soak up some the atmosphere that is portrayed in so many movies. You can find a selection of great places to eat in Notting Hill here
OUR GUIDE TO GREAT FOOD AND ACTIVITIES IN BAYSWATER & QUEENSWAY
As dedicated local estate agents, we cover our immediate area which includes Bayswater, Queensway and its surrounds. This central London postcode is fairly residential, comprising a mix of beautiful period properties and secure portered living housed in opulent mansion buildings. It’s a great location within walking distance to Paddington in one direction and in the other, Hyde Park, through which you can take a leisurely stroll to Marble Arch, Speakers Corner and into London’s vibrant West End.
Transport links in Bayswater.
Boasting great transport links with a number of buses and tube lines connecting you to Central London and beyond, the area is well easily accessible in all directions.
Bayswater is served by the central line from Queensway Station and the circle and district line from Bayswater. Paddington station is a stone’s throw away; you can walk or jump on a bus which will get you there in minutes, connecting you to tube and train lines to Reading and across the southwest UK.
On foot, you have access to a wide range of London hotspots and facilities. Bayswater is ideally located for access to Portobello Road, The West End, Paddington, and London’s largest green space, Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.
Where to eat in Bayswater
Centred around the hub of facilities of Queensway and Westbourne Grove, Bayswater has no lack of great places to eat. With a colourful array of cafes and eateries offering a vast choice of food, there is always somewhere to grab a bite.
Queensway itself has a lively evening atmosphere and is home to a number of exotic food options, including well known Chinese restaurants, The four seasons Chinese and a choice of Lebanese and Italian.
Westbourne Grove, famous in the ‘80s and ‘90s for Khans Indian restaurant, which you can still experience, is now also home to a variety of food choices. Eateries such as Gourmet burger, Planet Organic which has some lunch options and a range of cafes from Italian at Arro Coffee to Lebanese wraps and fresh juices at Fresco to Nando’s peri-peri chicken.
For a more relaxed dining experience there are some hidden pockets of long-standing restaurants along Hereford Road, which are popular with local residents and serve some delicious authentic cuisine:
Sahara: Serving Moroccan cuisine; this beautiful family run restaurant serves arguably the best Tagines you can find in London. They have been running for over 20 years and their food never disappoints. Their dessert, an exotic take on Mille Feuille is a must try, it's unlike any other you have ever tasted! They have a bring your own bottle of wine policy, which you can grab from the local supermarket. It’s a lovely place to dine away the evening.
Hafez: This busy Persian restaurant has been here since 1983. This hidden gem has a cute décor, with walls covered in spoons of all styles and sizes. It has a friendly atmosphere, intimate and is always busy serving authentic dishes. It’s a great place to sample some traditional recipes served by the Persian family who owns it and is passionate about sharing their food.
Aphrodite: This lively greek restaurant always smells good! It is always packed on a Friday or Saturday night with groups, families and food lovers seated around large round tables, enjoying mezze platters. This eatery has remained a family run business since its opening in 1988; the place is bursting with character, good food, and a happy atmosphere. And, no, they don’t break the plates at the end of the meal!
These three gems sit side by side and have done so for over 30 years. They are a well kept local secret just off the main road. Known among local residents and those in the know, these gems all stand the test of time due to their great authentic dishes, friendly atmosphere and reputation for quality.
Did we mention the inconspicuous Austrian bar on Westbourne Grove? If you are looking for something a bit out of the norm. You must venture into The Tiroler Hut. From the street, it’s just an open door leading down the steps to what appears a dark basement. Don’t let this put you off, down these steps you will enter a world of Austrian decor, food, music, and choice of Austrian beer served true Austrian size steins. It’s an unusual place, but it’s also lots of fun.
Where to do food shopping?
In terms of general shopping, Bayswater is well served by a large Waitrose catering to all your food needs, a large Planet Organic on Westbourne Grove and a smaller Tesco supermarket on Queensway. There is a range of smaller delis to choose from including, Greek, Italian and French. There is no lack of artisan bread, olives, fresh fruit and veg for local residents.
What to do in Bayswater and Queensway?
The area has a wealth of activities to explore. There are a number of gyms to cater to the needs of local residents such as Pure gym, Heartcore the boutique fitness centre focused on cardio and dynamic workout and Porchester terrace sports centre which as well as offering gym facilities and classes, contains a swimming pool and spa area including sauna, steam room and plunge pool. There are plenty of options to keep fit and stay active.
Queensway boasts central London’s only all year round ice skating rink to keep the kids busy on the weekend; it also includes a bowling alley, arcade games, and a cafe. This place is a staple local family favourite, guaranteed to tire the kids and amuse the adults.
A short stroll from Queensway and you will find yourself in the green nature of Kensington Gardens, you can take a walk around the small lake, feed the ducks, sit at the cafe or take the children to the pirate park where they can let their imagination run wild aboard the pirate ship set in a huge sandpit. On a sunny day, you can grab an ice cream and walk along the tree-lined path which will lead you all the way to High Street Kensington.
You can take a short walk to Portobello Market, at its most vibrant on a Saturday, it is a colourful place to explore any day of the week. On a weekday you will find a local market selling fresh fruit and veg, other artisanal foods and a variety of handicrafts.
On Sundays, you can meander down to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park and stroll along Bayswater road which turns into an art gallery/market and makes for an interesting and enjoyable walk towards park lane.
Queensway and Bayswater provide a comfortable and tranquil residential experience with the advantage of convenient access to local hotspots such as Notting Hill and surrounding areas. Living in Bayswater offers the best of all worlds, convenient location, great connections, lots of food choices and interesting places to visit within easy reach.
For more information on property to buy and rent in Bayswater and surrounding areas, get in touch so we can show you a selection of beautiful homes.
HOUSE PRICES GREW AT A STEADY RATE IN NOVEMBER
House prices grew at a steady rate in November, but growth has almost halved over the past year.
House prices grew by 2.5 per cent year-on-year in November, according to Nationwide's house price index, the same rate of growth recorded in October. This is a sharp fall in growth from a year ago, when annual inflation stood at 4.4 per cent.
The average price for a home was £209,988, up from £204,947 in the same month last year.
Robert Gardner, Nationwide's chief economist, said: "Low mortgage rates and healthy rates of employment growth are providing support for demand, but this is being partly offset by pressure on household incomes, which appears to be weighing on confidence. The lack of homes on the market is providing support to house prices."
In the Budget, Philip Hammond sought to help first-time buyers by handing them a stamp duty holiday on purchases worth up to £300,000.
Nationwide said the policy will only have a modest impact on demand, because in many parts of the UK first-time buyers are purchasing properties worth less than £125,000, which was the level of the previous threshold for stamp duty.
However, in London, where first-time buyers will not pay stamp duty on the first £300,000 on purchases of up to £500,000, the average stamp duty paid has fallen from £13,102 to £9,778.
SOURCE: CITY A.M