King’s Road in Chelsea is a bustling hub of activity, attracting both locals and tourists with its impressive array of shops, restaurants, and bars. From grabbing a coffee or indulging in some shopping to enjoying a boozy night out, there’s something for everyone to explore in this eclectic London destination.
This guide aims to uncover the best things to do in King’s Road, including the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery and top floral spots. It will also highlight some of the area’s charming cafes, restaurants, and bars, ensuring that visitors to King’s Road have an unforgettable experience. So, get ready to discover the hidden gems of this vibrant area in Chelsea.
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Key Takeaways
- King’s Road in Chelsea is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and bars.
- The area is home to the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery and top floral spots, making it a must-visit destination for art and nature lovers.
- Visitors to King’s Road can enjoy a variety of charming cafes, restaurants, and bars, ensuring a memorable experience.
Brilliant Things to do on King’s Road
Visit the Saatchi Gallery
The Saatchi Gallery is a contemporary art gallery situated near the Duke of York Square. It features the works of emerging contemporary artists from around the world and established artists who push the boundaries of their craft. The gallery was established in 1985 and admission is free.
Take a Stroll in Chelsea Physic Garden
The Chelsea Physic Garden, located a few minutes south next to the Thames, is a botanical garden steeped in history. First established as the Apothecaries Garden in 1673, the garden’s goal was to grow medicinal plants and herbs. It is home to 5,000 species of plants from around the world and is the perfect place to pause from the hustle and bustle of King’s Road. The garden hosts regular events, including gardening workshops and supper clubs. Head through the garden to the south towards the Chelsea Embankment, and you’ll find sublime views of Battersea Park and the London Peace Pagoda.
Enjoy a Film at Everyman Chelsea
Everyman Chelsea cinema is one of the finest cinemas in the city. It features exquisite decor, armchair seats, to-your-seat waiter service, and a fancy bar. The service is impeccable, and the seats are extremely comfortable.
Go Shopping at Duke of York Square
Duke of York Square is a shopping destination that is packed full of high-end fashion and beauty brands, independent shops, and a wide variety of snazzy restaurants and food stores. It’s an area that is stunning and perfect for whiling away some hours shopping or window shopping, sipping coffees, and generally living it up the Chelsea way. The square is lined with many high standard restaurants, but the coveted Vardo cafe, bar, and restaurant at the centre of the square is a top pick.
Visit the Chelsea Old Town Hall
The Chelsea Old Town Hall is a beautiful Victorian building that has been a landmark of King’s Road for over 100 years. The road is named after King Charles II, who used it as his private road. Today, the building is an events venue that hosts everything from weddings and conferences to fashion shows and art exhibitions. It’s certainly worth a visit just to admire the stunning architecture and soak up the history of the building.
Peek Inside World’s End Nursery
World’s End Nursery is a charming garden centre located on World’s End Place, just off King’s Road. The nursery specializes in various plants, from herbs and vegetables to exotic flowers and trees. They also sell a superb selection of gardening tools, pots, and other accessories. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and always happy to offer gardening and plant care advice. So whether you’re already one of London’s many gardening enthusiasts or just starting out, World’s End Nursery is a great place to find inspiration.
Swing by the Chelsea Funhouse
The Chelsea Funhouse is a three-story establishment with drinks, food, and dancing. One of the bars, The Bletchley, blends an immersive escape room-esque experience with cocktails and has won tons of awards. They’re mad about espresso martinis, with some 15 variations of the classic on the cocktail menu. The Chelsea Funhouse is a real experience that goes way beyond your typical cocktail bar experience.
Time Your Visit for Chelsea in Bloom
Chelsea in Bloom is a floral extravaganza that transforms the local neighborhood with tremendous floral installations. The event takes place in May each year, though the exact date changes. Chelsea’s love affair with flowers and plants is well-established, with the annual Chelsea Flower Show and Chelsea in Bloom being two of the most popular events in the area.
The Best King’s Road Restaurants + Cafes:
Peggy Porschen
Peggy Porschen is a charming cafe located just beyond King’s Road, known for its stunning pink floral façade and delicious cupcakes. The cafe offers freshly made cakes, cookies, and pastries that taste as good as they look. The outdoor seating area is a lovely spot to enjoy treats in the sunshine.
Mestizo
Mestizo is a vibrant restaurant located towards the top of King’s Road, offering truly authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant specializes in traditional dishes like enchiladas, nachos, and tacos, as well as desserts like churros and flan. The superb range of cocktails and tequila-based drinks is perfect for kicking off the evening in style.
Azteca
Azteca is a quintessential Mexican cantina located on King’s Road, offering live music, cocktails, and decadent Cuban cigars. The compact menu features classic Mexican dishes like nachos, burritos, and fajitas, as well as plenty of tequila-based drinks to choose from. The rustic and charming décor, with exposed brick walls and quirky artwork, creates a wonderful atmosphere for drinking, eating, and chilling.
Bluebird
Bluebird is an upmarket restaurant serving fresh, modern European food. The chic and modern interior creates a buzzing atmosphere, and the incredibly long wine and drinks list is perfect for any occasion. The menu showcases a great variety of meat and veg dishes, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch, romantic dinner, food with the family, or a night out with friends.
Granger & Co.
Granger & Co. is a highly successful cafe chain, with their Chelsea venue located on Pavilion Road, just off King’s Road. Renowned for its healthy and flavorful dishes, such as ricotta hotcakes, parmesan crumbed chicken schnitzel, and healthy bowls, they are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Manicomio
Manicomio is a stylish Italian restaurant located on Duke of York Square, at the top of King’s Road. The authentic menu and stacked wine list create a super-stylish but laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant serves classic Italian dishes like antipasti, pasta, and secondi (main courses), and the delightful terrace out the front is perfect for al fresco dining in the heart of King’s Road.
Vardo
Vardo is a popular restaurant and bar located at the center of Duke of York Square, in the creatively-designed white building that cannot be missed. The trendy and relaxed atmosphere, with a sublime spot at the center of the square, is perfect for soaking up the Chelsea atmosphere. The menu features mouth-watering sourdough pizzas, grilled meats, grains, and rice bowls, as well as loads of super-healthy vegetarian and vegan options. The spacious outdoor seating area is perfect for warm nights and sunny days.
The Best King’s Road Bars
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
The Ivy Chelsea Garden is a stunning venue with a restaurant, orangery, terrace, and garden. The interior design is maximalist and pays homage to Chelsea’s floral heritage. The bar serves high-end cocktails, champagne, wines, and beers. Visitors can also enjoy afternoon tea and champagne dinners for the ultimate Ivy experience.
Beaufort House
Beaufort House is a chic and trendy bar located towards the south end of King’s Road. The bar offers an extensive selection of cocktails, including classic options like espresso martinis and inventive originals like the Lasting Passion and The Godfather. The décor is modern and spacious, with a champagne bar, brasserie, and cocktail bar. Visitors can also enjoy excellent food at Beaufort House.
Unmissable King’s Road Shops
The King’s Road in Chelsea is a shopping haven, boasting a vast array of stores catering to every taste and budget. From high-end fashion boutiques to independent stores, there is something for everyone. The Duke of York Square, in particular, is home to some of the best shops in the area. Here are some of the must-visit shops in the Duke of York Square:
Trilogy
Trilogy is a denim boutique that denim enthusiasts will love. Located on Duke of York Square, the store offers a carefully curated selection of designer jeans that are sure to impress. With a wide range of styles and sizes, Trilogy is the perfect place to find your next favorite pair of jeans.
Anthropologie
Anthropologie is a popular lifestyle and fashion brand that offers a classic selection of bohemian-chic furniture, homeware, and clothes. Located on King’s Road, this store is a great place to find quirky gifts and unique one-of-a-kind pieces.
OSKA
If you’re looking for comfortable yet stylish clothing, OSKA is the perfect store for you. Their Chelsea shop offers contemporary and classic pieces made from high-end fabrics. With clean designs and non-fussy styles, OSKA’s clothes are effortlessly wearable.
Cosmetics a la Carte
Cosmetics a la Carte is a bespoke makeup brand located just off King’s Road. The store offers personalized consultations and custom-made products, making it a great place to find the perfect makeup for your skin type and style. With celebrity backing from Emma Watson and Kate Moss, Cosmetics a la Carte is a must-visit store.
NU
NU is an Istanbul-based fashion brand that offers quirky high-end fashion pieces. Located near the Duke of York Square, this store is the perfect place to find a cool London souvenir. With stunning pieces that are sure to impress, NU is a must-visit store for fashion lovers.
Duke of York Square Market
The Duke of York Square holds a market every Saturday, offering a wide range of independent food and artisanal goods. With many stalls selling an eclectic mix of clothing, accessories, and homeware, this market is a great place to find unique and one-of-a-kind items.
Monica Vinader
Monica Vinader is a luxury jewelry brand that offers a fine range of unique pieces focusing on high-end piercings. Located on King’s Road, this celeb-backed shop has a highly reputable piercing studio, and the prices are pretty reasonable. With a wide range of styles and designs, Monica Vinader is a must-visit store for jewelry lovers.
Zadig & Voltaire
Zadig & Voltaire is an upmarket French fashion brand that is world-renowned for its cool, edgy style. With men’s, women’s, and kid’s departments, this store is perfect for finding the next centrepiece of your wardrobe. Located on King’s Road, Zadig & Voltaire is a must-visit store for fashion-forward shoppers.
King’s Road, London: Practical Information
King’s Road in London is home to numerous shops, located both on the road itself and in the square. The nearest tube stop to King’s Road is Sloane Square, which is just a few minutes away from Duke of York Square at the top of the road. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, heading south will take you across the river over the Chelsea Bridge towards Battersea Park and Power Station, which is highly recommended for a day trip.