Where to live next in London: Kensington

Why Kensington remains one of London’s most sought‑after neighbourhoods – from its strong community to luxury new homes

Ellie Pryor

09 April 2026

3 mins read

Where to live next in London: Kensington — Photography by Juan Trujillo Andrades

Kensington is centrally located with easy access to some of the capital’s finest culture, gastronomy and shopping, flanked by the beautiful green spaces of Hyde Park and Holland Park. But what truly sets this prime London neighbourhood apart is its strong sense of community, says Tom Rundall, Partner in Knight Frank’s Prime Central London Developments team.

“The Kensington community is dominated by families – and friends of families – who have lived here for generations,” he says. “Often our buyers have grown up loving the area, either expanding or downsizing to help new generations purchase nearby. This trend now extends to international families, particularly from the US, Canada and across Europe, who value the peace, quiet and generous proportions found in this prime central London address.”

Craig Walters, Partner in Knight Frank’s Kensington Lettings team, with his colleague Charles Olver, Head of Kensington Sales

A family-orientated neighbourhood in the centre of London

Schools are a major attraction, as Jordanna Mancina, Sales Manager in Knight Frank’s Kensington office, explains. “With the Outstanding-rated Fox Primary School nearby, Hillgate Village is extremely popular with families,” she says. “The area has houses typically of around 1,500 sq ft, making it ideal for professional couples looking to upgrade from a flat.”

Also in high demand are Stratford Village – a tranquil enclave south of Kensington High Street – and the prestigious Phillimore Estate, known for its elegant stucco-fronted architecture and generously sized homes. “It benefits from being right on the edge of Holland Park,” says Craig Walters, Partner in Knight Frank’s Kensington Lettings team. “You might even spot a peacock roaming around the Kyoto Garden there.”

For more majestic greenery, the aptly named Cherry Tree Estate is celebrated for its blossoming trees and peaceful residential streets. It is home to some of the area’s largest and most desirable properties, making it a favourite among celebrities and other residents seeking elegant architecture and the tranquillity of a conservation area.

Kensington’s diverse and dynamic property market

One of Kensington’s key strengths, Craig notes, is the variety of homes available. “You have everything from mansion blocks to conversions, right up to houses ranging from around 1,500 sq ft to more than 7,000 sq ft – compared to other parts of central London it offers remarkable diversity.”

This range is reflected in rental budgets: expect to pay around £650–£1,150 per week for a one‑bedroom apartment, while three‑bed homes typically start from around £1,250 per week, rising significantly beyond this for premium specifications.

As landlords prepare for the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force on 1 May 2026, Craig adds that high‑quality homes remain in strong demand. “Top specification stock continues to achieve exceptional pricing with the right advice,” he says.

Sales prices show similar breadth: one‑bedroom apartments start at around £800,000, while three‑beds can exceed £3 million. Houses typically range from £3 million to well over £10 million, depending on size, condition and location. “Despite wider market headwinds, Kensington’s reputation endures,” says Jordanna. “Many buyers are extremely focused on specific streets, for example Palace Gardens Terrace or Hillgate Village.”

Leading the way in luxury new homes

Kensington’s collection of high‑end new homes further enhances its appeal. At Holland Park Gate, by the award-winning developer Lodha, residents enjoy access to an exclusive Health and Spa Club and in‑house hospitality services supporting family life – from childcare sessions to school‑run car services. Prices start from £2,250,000 for a one‑bedroom apartment, rising to £32,500,000 for the penthouse.

Nearby, Allen House comprises 45 one‑, two‑ and three‑bedroom lateral apartments and two penthouses within a restored Edwardian landmark. With a state‑of‑the‑art gym and 24‑hour concierge service – including a priority line with Harrods – prices range from £1,100,000 to £7,920,000. One Kensington Gardens, designed by renowned architect David Chipperfield, offers light‑filled luxury apartments moments from Kensington Palace and Hyde Park. Prices range from £3,950,000 to £24,000,000.

Tom notes that current market conditions present challenges for new‑build developers: land acquisition, professional fees, design, procurement and construction costs all affect the viability of schemes. For buyers, this may mean scarcity ahead.

“It is unlikely that we will see the same scale of developments with hotel‑style amenities and full‑service offerings in the near future,” he says. “It is increasingly challenging to make buildings like these possible, and from an ownership point of view this may be the last opportunity in a generation to acquire a home of this calibre.”

Our agents’ local gems:

“Sally Clarke’s makes the most delicious florentines. And Jamie Allsopp’s pub The Blue Stoops serves excellent food, great beer (I recommend a pint of Double Diamond) - and make sure you ask for the superb secret wine list” - Tom

"Lift Coffee is amazing – it’s a really cool design-led space right in the heart of Kensington and their coffee is, in my opinion, some of the best in London” - Craig

“Rino’s is a family-run café a couple of doors down from our office that makes the most amazing sandwiches, lasagnas and pastas from scratch - we’re there for lunch all the time” - Jordanna