Located in central London, Knightsbridge is one of the city’s most affluent areas. From its quaint cafés to its lush green spaces, Knightsbridge is synonymous with luxury, style and history. Stroll around its picturesque neighbourhoods, pop into its iconic shops and marvel at its historic monuments. Some of the best places to visit in Knightsbridge include:
If you’re planning a trip to London, Knightsbridge is one of the capital’s must-visit areas. Read on as we take you through its best features in more detail.
Knightsbridge is easily accessible via the Tube. Take the Piccadilly (dark blue) line to Knightsbridge station, where you’ll arrive right next to Hyde Park.
You can’t visit Knightsbridge without taking a look around Harrods, London’s most famous shop. Built in 1849, Harrods is located along Brompton Road and features 1.1 million square feet of shopping space, including a market hall and gift selections. Home to 330 sections, it’s the biggest department store in Europe, attracting over 15 million visitors every year. Selling every product and every designer brand available, Harrods is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts.
If you’re not a fan of shopping, it’s still worth strolling around Harrods and admiring its impressive architecture. Some of its architectural highlights include the Baroque-style dome and the unique memorial of Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed. The department store also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including wine events and children’s workshops.
Harrods is open Monday to Wednesday, 11:00 to 19:00, Thursday to Saturday, 11:00 to 20:00, and Sunday, 11:30 to 18:00.
One of London's most popular outdoor attractions, Hyde Park is a great place to visit all year round. There’s an endless list of things to do here, including swimming, boat-rowing, or simply enjoying a picnic. In the summertime, the park is full of those making the most of the sunny weather. In the wintertime, Hyde Park hosts the annual Winter Wonderland Christmas markets, boasting delicious food stalls, an ice rink and fairground rides.
Head to the centre of Hyde Park and you’ll find an idyllic 40-acre lake, the Serpentine. You can also visit the Serpentine Gallery and the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, wonderful exhibition spaces home to contemporary art pieces by Chris Ofili, Andy Warhol, and others.
You can reach Hyde Park from Knightsbridge via South Carriage Drive. The park is free to visit and is open from 05:00 until midnight all year round.
Apsley House was the home of the first Duke of Wellington, one of the most famous political figures of the 19th century. Built between 1771 and 1778 by architect Robert Adam, it was initially constructed for Baron Apsley (hence its name) but was bought and remodelled by the Duke 50 years later. Many generations of Duke of Wellington lived in the Apsley House, and it is now looked after by English Heritage, who maintains its appearance and offers guided tours.
The house has been restored to reflect how it would have looked in the Duke of Wellington’s day. Visitors can explore its interiors and discover the beautifully presented art, furniture, silver and porcelain collection acquired by the Duke.
Find out about up-to-date opening hours and ticket prices here.
Built between 1825 and 1827, Wellington Arch was originally intended as one of Buckingham Palace’s outward entrances and was constructed as a victory arch to celebrate the British victories in the Napoleonic wars. The arch was moved from Buckingham Palace to its present location at Hyde Park Corner during the 1880s.
Wellington Arch was originally crowned by a magnificent sculpture of the Duke of Wellington, from which it got its name. However, this was replaced by a spectacular bronze quadriga (a four-horse chariot) in 1912, created by sculptor and painter Adrian Jones.
Witness this famous landmark from the outside before heading over to Hyde Park. Visitors can also explore the inside of Wellington Arch and climb up to its balconies to experience stunning panoramic views across London. Find out about up-to-date opening hours and ticket prices here.
Initially part of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens covers 265 acres and is a gorgeous place for a walk if you’re in the Knightsbridge area. The gardens are located across the west-hand side of Hyde Park and are home to fascinating buildings and sculptures, such as Kensington Palace and the Albert Memorial.
Wander through the gardens and admire the lovely range of trees and plants dotted around the landscape. There are also a variety of cafés and kiosks located throughout, where you can stop for a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. Kensington Gardens is free to visit and open to the public from 06:00 every day.
Kensington Palace is set in Kensington Gardens and is currently the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The Palace was originally a Jacobean mansion constructed by Sir George Coppin in 1605.
Parts of Kensington Palace are open for visitors to explore, including the King’s State Apartments and the Queen’s State Apartments. You can also stop for a break and a cup of tea at the Kensington Palace Pavilion and Tea Room. Check the website for up-to-date opening times and ticket prices.
Planning a trip to London Kensington? Our NYX Hotel London Holborn offers the perfect base for your visit to the capital. Boasting a laid-back, luxurious style, outstanding leisure facilities and a range of room options, there’s no better place to rest your feet than our modern NYX Hotel. Plus, it offers a convenient location, situated close to popular attractions in Knightsbridge such as Hyde Park and Wellington Arch. You can read more about some of our other hotels near Hyde park.
