Notting Hill is one of the most vibrant and colourful neighbourhoods in London. It’s also home to many famous historical landmarks, including the Notting Hill Blue Plaque Tour. This tour is a must-see for anyone visiting the neighbourhood. The plaques commemorate some of the most important and influential people who have lived in Notting Hill over the years.
22 Portobello Road
The first stop on the tour is at number 22 Portobello Road, which is the former home of writer and social activist George Orwell. The plaque commemorates Orwell’s time spent living in the neighbourhood and his important work in exposing poverty and inequality in British society. Orwell lived in Notting Hill for two years, from 1927 to 1929. He was attracted to the area because of its diverse population and vibrant atmosphere. In his book “Down and Out in Paris and London”, Orwell chronicled his experiences living among the poor and working-class residents of both cities. His time spent in Notting Hill helped to shape his political views, and he would go on to become one of the most important authors of the 20th century. The plaque at 22 Portobello Road is located on the side of the building where Orwell lived. It’s a small, unassuming plaque, but it’s definitely worth taking a photo of!
Orwell is just one of many notable figures who have called Notting Hill home over the years. The area has long been a haven for artists, writers, and musicians. Many famous people have lived in the neighbourhood, including playwright Oscar Wilde, singer Amy Winehouse, and actor Hugh Grant.
25 Kensington Park Road
The second stop on the tour is at number 25 Kensington Park Road, which is the former home of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Churchill lived in Notting Hill for over 20 years, from 1900 to 1922. He was first elected to Parliament in 1900 and served as Prime Minister from 1940 to 1945. Churchill is one of the most important figures in British history, and his time spent living in Notting Hill was crucial to his development as a politician. The plaque at 25 Kensington Park Road commemorates Churchill’s time living in the neighbourhood and highlights his importance to British history.
33 Pembridge Road
The third stop on the tour is at number 33 Pembridge Road, which is the former home of writer Virginia Woolf. Woolf lived in Notting Hill for two years, from 1912 to 1914. She was attracted to the area because of its bohemian atmosphere and diverse population. Woolf is best known for her novels “Mrs Dalloway” and “To the Lighthouse”. Both novels are set in London, and many of the locations mentioned in the books can be found in Notting Hill. The plaque at 33 Pembridge Road commemorates Woolf’s time spent living in the neighbourhood and her important contribution to literature.
45 Lansdowne Road
The fourth stop on the tour is at number 45 Lansdowne Road, which is the former home of poet W.B. Yeats. Yeats lived in Notting Hill for two years, from 1909 to 1911. He was attracted to the area because of its bohemian atmosphere and diverse population. Yeats is best known for his poems “The Lake Isle of Innisfree” and “When You Are Old”. He also wrote many plays and essays and was a key figure in the Irish Literary Revival. The plaque at 45 Lansdowne Road commemorates Yeats’ time spent living in the neighbourhood and his important contribution to Irish literature.
60 Golborne Road
The fifth stop on the tour is at number 60 Golborne Road, which is the former home of artist Banksy. Banksy lived in Notting Hill for two years, from 1997 to 1999. He was attracted to the area because of its vibrant street art scene. Banksy is best known for his stencilled graffiti art, which often features political or social commentary. He has become one of the most famous artists in the world, and his work can be found all over London. The plaque at 60 Golborne Road commemorates Banksy’s time spent living in the neighbourhood and his important contribution to street art.
Notting Hill is a truly special place, and it’s easy to see why so many famous people have chosen to live there over the years. The area has a rich history, and its diverse population and vibrant atmosphere make it a unique place to live. If you’re ever in London, be sure to take the Notting Hill Blue Plaque Tour! It’s a great way to learn about the area and see some of the most important sites in British history.