If you are heading to London after having taken advantage of the amazing Discount Hotels In West End London, then you may have been lucky enough to book a room at the Piccadilly West End Hotel; one of the best Luxury Hotels In West End London. Thanks to the amazingly central location you’ll be in the perfect spot to explore one of the most beautiful parts of the city centre.
Knightsbridge is supposedly named due to a gang of youths known locally as ‘The Knights’, whose favourite meating spot was a small bridge crossing the Westbourne River. Thankfully, there are no longer any gangs hanging around in this area! And if you are a fan of architecture, or simply looking for some picturesque streets for the gram, then Knightsbride is the place for you.
There are plenty of stunning buildings, many green spaces and heaps of culture and food. This is arguably one of the best places in the city to spend an afternoon. So let’s take a look at the best things you do in the Knightsbridge area!
Wellington Arch
With something of a tumultuous history, this arch now stands proudly between Hyde Park, and Green park of Buckingham Palace. The arch was originally constructed as one of the grand entrances for the palace, but was never used for this purpose; it was actually moved several times before it found its proper place. The peace statue on top of the arch featuring an angel riding a carriage drawn by four horses, actually replaced a very controversial and humongous statue of Wellington atop a horse. The arch is now home to a museum, and you can actually reach the top for a rather unique view of the area.
The London Oratory
Otherwise known as the Brompton Oratory, this Roman Catholic church was consecrated in 1884. The Grade II Listed Building was the largest in the city until Westminster Cathedral was opened, yet it remains one of the most beautiful in the city. It holds a huge 3,000 person mass on Sundays, and the acoustics are stunning. Any history or architecture buffs out there will be blown away by this gorgeous building.
The V&A
The Victoria and Albert Museum is one of London’s most famous institutions. Home to over 4 million pieces, this incredible museum specialises in art and design- and what a stunning collection it is. A celebration of creativity from all over the world, ranging from jewellery and ceramics to architecture, sculpture and fashion- you really will find everything here. The building itself is truly stunning, and entry is free, so there really is no reason not to visit!
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s greatest and most famous green spaces. Right in the middle of the city and sitting directly opposite Buckingham Palace, no trip to the city is complete without a walk through Hyde Park. You can rent a rowboat and paddle on the Serpentine Lake, take a stroll through the trees, or jump on a horse drawn carriage for a full lap of the massive park. There is a small contemporary art gallery, and during the winter months Hyde Park is actually home to the incredible Winter Wonderland Markets.
Kensington Gardens
Kensington Gardens was actually initially a part of Hyde Park. Though they are now separated by a road, they were once one and the same park. Kensington Gardens was added as a garden to the magnificent Kensington Palace (see below!), and more little sections of Hyde Park were syphoned off until it became the stunning park we have today. Full of sculptures, gardens, and the incredible Albert Memorial, this magical park is truly worth a visit. It is also said to be where J.M Barrie found his inspiration for Peter Pan- It’s easy to see why when you are wondering about this stunning bit of ground!
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is set on the Western side of Kensington Gardens. It is currently home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and their family. This stunning Jacobean mansion was built in 1605 by Sir George Coppin and is a truly stunning building. There are areas of the palace open to the public for guided tours, and you can explore parts of the Royal gardens too.
Shopping
Many people know of Knightsbridge largely due to the fact that the world famous Harrods. Opened in 1849, this incredible store is now the largest department store in Europe with over 1.1 million square feet of shopping space that attracts an estimated 15 million shoppers per year. Featuring every designer brand imaginable, as well as pretty much anything else you could possibly dream of; this place is definitely worth a wander.
Aside from the ever popular Harrods, Knightsbridge does have an amazing shopping scene. With plenty of luxury boutiques and incredible fashion brands from all over the world, you won’t be left wanting at the end of your day. Harvey Nichols is also worth a visit, with beauty sections, upmarket fashion and the incredible rooftop food hall- it doesn’t get much better anywhere in the world.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea has become something of a phenomenon, and for those visiting London it is an absolute must. For those of you who don’t know, afternoon tea was essentially born from workers needing a more substantial snack with their pot of tea at the end of the day. Not quite dinner, not quite a snack- featuring small sandwiches, meats, cheeses, pastries, sweet items and of course some refreshing tea.
There are many incredible places to get amazing afternoon tea in the area, but there are a few standouts. The Harrods Tea Room is an absolute classic, and Harvey Nichols has a great offering too. Thanks to the sheer amount of luxury hotels in the area you are pretty spoiled for choice. If you fancy a cool twist on the classic head back to The Piccadilly West End Hotel for the best Indian Afternoon Tea London has to offer. With samosas, spiced sandwiches and jasmine tea, you’ll be delighted with your choice!
So there you have it, the best things to see and do in the Knightsbridge area from the comfort of one of the best luxury Hotels Near Piccadilly Circus, The Piccadilly West End Hotel. Easily access one of the most picturesque areas of London, with bucket loads of charm and culture.
