About the area
One of central London's most exclusive neighbourhood, Knightsbridge offers some superb hotels. Many visitors opt to stay Knightsbridge to experience some of the very best of London's shopping, with Harrods and Harvey Nichol just two of the famous retail names to be found nearby.
The name 'Knightsbridge' deserves some mention; unsubstantiated legend has it that two knights once met in mortal combat on the bridge that spanned the Westbourne River, where the Albert Gate now stands at the entrance to Hyde Park.
More certain is that area was once the haunt of highwaymen and a well-known spot for aristocratic duels. In the 18th century, the river was dammed to provide water for the Serpentine and Long Water, and the pleasant hamlet of Knightsbridge became a popular spot for the rich of London to settle.
Nearest major attractions to Knightsbridge
Harrods of Knightsbridge
Harrods Ltd, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL
Arguably the most famous store in the world, Harrods is as much a cultural landmark as a place to shop. Everything is available here, from bridalwear to banking, from luxurious home furnishings to exotic food and gifts for (almost) all budgets. If you buy nothing else, you can still take home a famous green Harrod's shopping bag!
Website
Tube: Knightsbridge
Kensington Gardens
Kensington Gardens was once part of Hyde Park, until William IV enclosed it to become the gardens for Kensington Palace to the west. The Gardens are more orderly and formal than Hyde Park, with a sunken garden and a rectangular pond by the palace. By Long Water is a statue of Peter Pan, whose author, JM Barrie, donated the children's swings nearby.
Hyde Park
Once a hunting ground for Henry VIII, Hyde Park's character stems from the Serpentine Lake, home to waterfowl and sweating oarsmen. Rotten Row, on the southern boundary of the park, is a famous horse-riding area, and Speaker's Corner, by the Marble Arch entrance, is the place to listen to soap-box orators. on Sunday mornings.
Royal Albert Hall
Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP
A popular venue for headline performers. Typical events include ballet, concerts, opera, and top pop or rock music performers. Website
Tube: South Kensington, High Street Kensington
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace State Apartments, Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX
The royal residence here was redesigned by Christopher Wren for William and Mary in 1689. The State Apartments and the Court Dress Collection are open to the public, along with the sunken gardens. See the room where Queen Victoria was born, and paintings and furniture from the royal collection. Website
Tube: Queensway, Bayswater, High Street Kensington
