Kensal Rise is the neighbourhood just north of Notting Hill that now has a lot of the street cred and chic appeal that Notting Hill used to have before it became a place for hedge funders and models to inhabit.
Kensal’s got that edgy London feel, slightly rough round the edges where the more interesting, rather than the more wealthy, hang out.
I recall a weekly cabaret, run by Richard Strange, at the Paradise Pub in Kilburn Lane. Interesting guy, bit of a creative polymath, had a band in the 1970s, The Doctors of Madness. Does that give you a clue? I did a performance there. Dressed in a Brooks Brothers pink striped seersucker suit, I acted the role of my late identical twin brother being interviewed. I think everyone was disturbed, especially me. I guess it’s an example of that other side, the dark side, the more interesting and disruptive side of London life. Doing strange things.
If you go to Kensal you may witness the odd, strange thing. (Since when was ‘strange’ not ‘odd’?). Wouldn’t it all be terrible dull if nothing was strange? That would be like walking along Kensington High Street these days, where absolutely nothing strange occurs (I think it used to, in the 1960s).
The main street of Kensal Rise is Chamberlayne Road, known for its array of independent shops, stylish boutiques, and cafes. This road captures the essence of Kensal Rise’s unique character, where you can find everything from gentrificial (is that a word) artisanal bakeries to homeware stores. The area’s diverse offerings make it a lively hub for both shopping and socialising.
Kensal Rise has plenty of venues contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. The Lexi Cinema, an independent cinema housed in a beautiful Edwardian building, is a local favourite. It screens an eclectic mix of films and hosts live events, with all profits going to charity. This cinema exemplifies the community-oriented spirit of Kensal Rise, providing a cultural anchor for the neighbourhood.
The area is also home to the Kensal Rise Library, a community-run library saved from closure by local residents. This library is more than just a place to borrow books; it serves as a community hub, hosting a variety of events and activities that bring residents together.
Green spaces are an integral part of life in Kensal Rise. The nearby Roundwood Park offers a serene escape with its well-kept gardens, children’s play area, and sports facilities. It’s a favourite spot for locals to relax and unwind, adding to the neighbourhood’s village-like appeal.
Kensal Rise is known for its lively dining scene, offering a wide range of culinary delights. The Island pub is a popular choice, known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty British cuisine. Meanwhile, Sacro Cuore pizzeria brings a taste of Italy to the neighbourhood with its wood-fired pizzas and cosy ambiance. For those seeking a more eclectic dining experience, the neighbourhood’s cafes and eateries provide a plethora of international options.
Last, but not least, the cemetery, host to a pretty interesting bunch including Isambard Brunel, Charles Babbage, Harold Pinter, Makepeace Thackery, Anthony Trollope and Freddie Mercury. If only they could all come back to life one evening and come to the cabaret at the Paradise Pub!
Transport links in Kensal Rise are excellent, with the Kensal Rise Overground station connecting residents to central London and beyond. Numerous bus routes also serve the area, making it a convenient base for commuting and exploring the city.
One of the most appealing aspects of Kensal Rise is its strong sense of community. Local events, markets, and initiatives foster a close-knit atmosphere, making it easy for residents to connect and engage with their neighbours. This community spirit, combined with the neighbourhood’s trendy vibe, makes Kensal Rise a highly desirable place to live.
