Monday, December 5, 2011

Holland Park, Kensington, Chelsea, and Notting Hill

 After we had a blast at the Dr. Who Experience we decided to get some lunch and then take a walk.  We just happened to stop at an Italian restaurant right across the street from Holland park.  Curious we decided to see what it was and found that it was a beautiful park.  Full of 'secret' paths that led this way and that with little hidden treasure gardens all throughout.  There was a Japanese garden, a playground, a chess set, peacocks, an ornamental garden, a stately house, the list goes on.  It was truly magnificent.  We walked all through Holland park and came out over near Notting Hill.  

We decided to take a little break at McDonalds, mostly to rest our feet and get a drink, and noticed a large mural on the wall with Portobello Market on it.  We had never heard of it, but thought since it was painted on the wall, it must be significant, right?  Well, it was HUGE, and that is putting it mildly.  There were more people there than can be imagined and the stalls went on and on for what seemed like a mile.  Tons of 'antiques', food, lace, purses, copper, silver, etc.  I found a really beautiful wall hanging that was turquoise and hand beaded, but a bit expensive at 43 quid.  I regret not buying it, but it simply wasn't in the budget.  We ate, and then stumbled upon a Mexican food stall, and I so badly wanted to try it but was just too stuffed to eat anymore. 

We rode the train home, tired but thrilled with our spontaneous detour we took on our time in London.

 

Walking into Holland Park
 


Holland House
 






A typical house in Kensington, quite posh.
 



Part of Portobello Market

Entrance to Holland Park