The 12 prettiest streets in London you need to see!
London is one of those cities that effortlessly blends the historic with the modern, the iconic with the hidden.
Sure, everyone knows about Big Ben and Tower Bridge, but if you want to experience London like a local (or just seriously upgrade your Instagram game), it’s time to wander off the beaten path.
From vibrant mews to candy-coloured facades, I’ve compiled a list of 12 of London’s prettiest streets, each offering its own slice of charm and beauty.
So, grab your camera, a sturdy pair of shoes, and let’s get lost!
1. Kynance Mews (Kensington)
Closest Tube Station: South Kensington
Kynance Mews is hands down one of London’s most beautiful streets—I mean, is it even legal for a street to be this pretty?
This street is in every London Guidebook and for good reason!
Known for its grand archway and cobbled lanes, this street practically screams “photo op!”.
The ivy-clad houses and winding greenery make it feel like a hidden oasis in the heart of the city.
Photography Tip: Aim for early morning in the spring for that soft light illuminating the wisteria-draped archway. Total Insta gold.
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2. Neal’s Yard (Covent Garden)
Closest Tube Station: Covent Garden
If you’re craving a burst of colour, head to Neal’s Yard, one of the most vibrant courtyards you’ll find in London.
Tucked away behind the hustle and bustle of Covent Garden, this hidden gem is full of quirky shops, colourful facades, and enough greenery to keep your plant-loving heart happy.
It’s one of London’s most instagrammable places, with rainbow-coloured buildings and that undeniable eclectic vibe.
This is also where the famous Flagship Store of Neals Yard Remedies is located! You GOT to try them!
Photography Tip: Late afternoon is perfect when the light softens and enhances the vibrant colours of the buildings.
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3. Portobello Road (Notting Hill)
Closest Tube Station: Ladbroke Grove
Portobello Road is easily one of the most famous streets in London, and for good reason.
With its colourful houses, antique markets, and some of the best street food around, there’s always something happening here.
Wander around on a Saturday when the Portobello Market is in full swing, or drop by mid-week for a quieter, more leisurely stroll.
Either way, you’ll be treated to street art, vibrant facades, and all the quirky vibes Notting Hill is known for.
Fun tidbit: There is even a Portobello Market boardgame and it looks like so much fun!
Photography Tip: Get an elevated shot from one of the side streets to capture the market stalls and the colourful houses all in one frame.
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4. Elizabeth Street (Belgravia)
Closest Tube Station: Victoria
Elizabeth Street is a pastel wonderland in Belgravia (no, not the TV series), particularly around Peggy Porschen, the cake shop with its pink decor that will make your Instagram followers swoon.
This is one of London’s prettiest streets if you’re a fan of all things chic and floral.
The floral displays adorning the storefronts change with the seasons, so it’s well worth a visit any time of year.
Photography Tip: You’ll want to be here during mid-morning to avoid crowds, especially if you’re hoping for an uninterrupted shot of the iconic pink exterior of Peggy Porschen.
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5. Camden High Street (Camden Town)
Closest Tube Station: Camden Town
Camden is the heart of alternative London, and Camden High Street is where it all happens.
You’ll find quirky shops, eccentric street art, and the famous Camden Market.
The shop facades are incredibly unique, with oversized 3D murals that practically beg to be photographed.
The energy here is wild, and while it might not be the most serene spot, it’s undoubtedly one of the most visually interesting.
Photography Tip: The early afternoon light casts a perfect glow on the shopfronts, making those funky designs pop.
6. St Luke’s Mews (Notting Hill)
Closest Tube Station: Westbourne Park
You might recognize St Luke’s Mews from the movie Love Actually—specifically, the famous pink house with its charming floral display.
This quaint street feels like a peaceful slice of West London, with cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured homes that look straight out of a postcard.
Photography Tip: The pink house is obviously the star here, so head over in the morning to catch it without too many passersby.
7. Lancaster Road (Notting Hill)
Closest Tube Station: Ladbroke Grove
Another Notting Hill classic, Lancaster Road is all about vibrant colour.
The rainbow-coloured houses lining the street make it one of the most instagrammable places in London, and it’s hard to take a bad photo here.
Plus, it’s just a short walk from Portobello Road, making it a perfect two-for-one photo spot.
Photography Tip: The late afternoon sun lights up the houses beautifully, bringing out those bold colours.
8. Westbourne Park Road (Notting Hill)
Closest Tube Station: Westbourne Park
Ah, Westbourne Park Road—a stunning mix of Ladbroke Square’s grandeur and Westbourne Grove’s colourful charm.
You’ll find those iconic pastel Victorian houses with exposed brickwork and grand columns, making it one of London’s prettiest streets for sure.
Photography Tip: Visit early morning or just before sunset for the best lighting on those pastel facades.
9. Hillgate Place (Notting Hill)
Closest Tube Station: Notting Hill Gate
Hillgate Place offers a quieter alternative to nearby Portobello Road, with pastel houses lining cobbled streets in a peaceful neighbourhood.
The pretty pastels are perfect for those looking to capture serene, picture-perfect shots.
Photography Tip: Early morning, when the light is soft, is the best time to shoot here.
10. Ladbroke Square (Notting Hill)
Closest Tube Station: Holland Park
Ladbroke Square boasts beautiful Victorian-style houses with white columns, brickwork, and a lovely little garden tucked away in the centre.
It’s a quintessentially British street that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, or even a bit of people-watching if you want to feel fancy.
Photography Tip: Midday works well for balancing the shadows with the exposed brick and columns.
11. Wardour Street (Soho & Chinatown)
Closest Tube Station: Leicester Square
At the heart of Soho, Wardour Street will lead you straight into the bustling energy of Chinatown with its iconic Chinatown Gate.
The energy here is electric, from the glowing lanterns to the busy restaurants serving up some of the best dim sum in London.
Photography Tip: Nighttime is perfect when the lanterns light up Chinatown for a truly vibrant scene.
12. Chalcot Crescent (Primrose Hill)
Closest Tube Station: Chalk Farm
Chalcot Crescent in Primrose Hill is another stunner, with its grand crescent-shaped row of pastel-coloured houses.
It’s a quieter spot than the streets of Notting Hill, making it perfect for an unhurried wander. Plus, you’re just steps away from the panoramic views of the city from the top of Primrose Hill.
Photography Tip: Early evening is ideal for capturing the soft glow on the pastel facades and a peaceful atmosphere.
Getting Around London’s Prettiest Streets
The beauty of these streets is that many of them are clustered together, especially in areas like Notting Hill and West London.
So, lace up your walking shoes and explore! The Tube is your best friend for hopping between neighbourhoods, and with stops like Notting Hill Gate and South Kensington, you’ll be well-connected.
If you’re feeling adventurous, London’s public bike hire scheme is also a great way to get around.
Respectful Exploration
While these streets are perfect for snapping photos, remember they’re also residential areas. Try to avoid standing on steps or disturbing the residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prettiest streets in London
If you’re looking for the prettiest streets in London, you’ve got to check out Bywater Street, Bathurst Mews, and Warren Mews.
Each of these streets has its own charm and beautiful architecture, making them perfect for your London photo spots!
Where is Bywater Street located?
Bywater Street is nestled in Chelsea, one of the most beautiful areas of London.
It’s known for its colorful houses and gorgeous gardens, making it a must-visit on your trip to London!
Is Bathurst Mews really one of the prettiest streets in London?
Absolutely! Bathurst Mews is famous for its quaint charm and lovely mews houses.
It’s a perfect example of the picturesque streets you can find in central London.
What makes Warren Mews stand out among London’s beautiful streets?
Warren Mews is unique because it maintains a classic London feel with its cobbled streets and traditional houses.
It’s one of those hidden gems that truly show off the beauty of London’s mews!
Are there any iconic movie spots among the prettiest streets in London?
Yes! You might recognize Bywater Street from the movie “Love Actually.”
It’s one of those spots in London that blends cinematic history with beautiful streets, making it a fun visit!
What’s the best time to visit the beautiful streets in London?
A: Spring is an excellent time to explore, as many of these streets are lined with blooming flowers.
But honestly, any time of year will give you a chance to enjoy the stunning architecture and vibe of these streets around London.
Can you suggest other beautiful streets in London apart from those mentioned?
Definitely! You should also check out High Street Kensington and King’s Road.
Both are famous for their beautiful streets and have plenty of shops and cafes to enjoy while you’re exploring!
How can I include these streets in my London bucket list?
Just jot down the names of these streets—Bywater Street, Bathurst Mews, and Warren Mews—and plan a walking tour around Chelsea and Paddington.
Make sure to bring your camera for those perfect Instagram shots!
What should I wear when visiting the prettiest streets in London?
Dress comfortably! You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so wear good shoes.
But don’t forget to add a stylish touch to your outfit, as you’ll want to look cute in those photo spots in London!
Are these beautiful streets accessible by public transport?
Yes! Most of these streets are easily accessible by public transport.
Just hop on the Tube and get off at the nearest station, then take a short walk to explore these picturesque streets around Chelsea and Paddington
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