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Spending The Day In South Kensington, London

London has many fantastic areas, all of which seem to offer something different. You can enter different parts of the city and discover completely different things- Camden offers amazing youth and counterculture, Soho has high end shops and bars and Brixton has incredible live music. 

South Kensington offers an excellent mix of experiences for tourists and locals alike. You can take a stroll in nature, visit a world class exhibition, dine in a Michelin starred restaurant and shop till you drop- all in one area!   

Make the most of your stay at The Chilworth London, Paddington by taking advantage of the amazing location and exploring the local area- but don’t forget to head back to enjoy the best afternoon tea near Paddington Station at your hotel! 

Here is a quick guide to South Kensington and everything it offers!  

Kensington High Street

Apart from just being a pleasure to stroll down, Kensington High Street has a lot to offer. Amazing shopping with international fashion brands, great food and a tonne of interesting and unique boutique shops. 

You could spend the afternoon sampling fine organic foods, hitting the shops and maybe grabbing a coffee in one of the fantastic coffee houses.

The Museums

London is world renowned for its fantastic museums, and three of the city’s heavy hitters can be found in South Kensington.

The V&A

Otherwise known as the Victoria & Albert museum, this collection is incredibly eclectic and has something for pretty much everyone. 

Displaying arts, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, clothing, sculpture and a lot more; all covering 3,000 years of human culture, design and artistry. 

There is no other collection as eclectic or complete anywhere on earth.

The Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a family favourite, and well, pretty much one of the best museums in the city. 

Come face to face with a terrifying T-Rex, experience the power of an earthquake and discover nature’s lost creatures in this stunning collection celebrating the history of the natural world.

The science Museum

The science Museum is a great place to take young kids, although it would be crazy to say that this is not a great place for people of all ages. 

Get hands on with science, learn about the universe and discover the building blocks of life. This place will blow your mind and get you involved in the action!

The Royal Albert Hall

The Royal Albert Hall is one of the city’s most iconic buildings- and one of the key locations for live music, sport and entertainment in the UK. 

Architecturally speaking this building is a marvel. It holds one of the largest glass domes in the world, clocking in at an incredible 620 tonnes. Not only that, it also offers perfect acoustics inside the building. 

Catch some live comedy, the BBC proms or even a game of tennis at this incredible venue.

A Day in South Kensington  

South Kensington has plenty to offer, and is absolutely one of London’s most beautiful destinations. If you don’t believe me, just visit one of the two Royal parks that border the area; Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. 

Once you’ve explored this magnificent area you’ll be ready for a visit to the best spa near Paddington, at your hotel; The Chilworth. Then you’ll have the pick of the most fantastic restaurants Paddington, London has to offer for a spot of dinner.

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How to Pass for a Londoner: 3 Travel Tips

When you visit a new city, there is no shame in being a tourist. However, there are times where you want to avoid sticking out like a sore thumb - or worse, offend someone unintentionally! Here are 3 London travel tips that will ensure you blend into the crowd and also that you are always understood.

Afternoon Tea 

When you are staying at The Chilworth Paddington, it is arguably criminal to skip out on the Paddington Afternoon Tea offering. However, it is a little more complicated than simply rocking up - there is etiquette involved in the traditional practice of afternoon tea and if you want to pass as a Londoner, take notes of these three reminders. Firstly, this is a semi-formal or smart-casual affair. Think floral blouses and closed shoes for men, but not suit and tie. Secondly, “pinkies up” is not a thing. If you have heard the myth that it is polite to stick your pinky out while drinking your tea, forget it - unless you are purposefully looking to be rude and connote elitism, which is hopefully far from your intention. Thirdly, when eating scones or cake, it is best to break it into small pieces to eat, rather than biting out of it. It is important to remember that most of the time, the idea is to have a great day - so don’t distract yourself by thinking too much about it. But if you remember these three tips, you are sure to look and feel the part.

Tipping culture

Even if you are trying to keep to a tight budget on your trip to London, having carefully picked the best London Paddington hotel deals, you never want to look cheap or appear offensive by not knowing the tipping culture. Unlike the US, it is not compulsory to tip in the UK. Think of tipping as a way of showing appreciation for the quality of service provided. In some places, an optional percentage is suggested and in others, a compulsory tip is included for groups usually of more than six people. However, it is almost exclusively up to your discretion. So, if you loved your breakfast waiter at your accommodation in Paddington London, tipping would be much-appreciated. It is not, however, demanded of you.

Cash/Card

 A ripple-effect of the Covid-19 pandemic is that a big portion of London went cash-free and then stayed that way. There remain places in the city to pay with cash if you specifically want to do that, but be mindful that this will not always be the case - you don’t want to be caught without a way to pay, after all! An example of a place which will no longer accept cash is all public transport in London. The days of paying your bus fare in exact change are over. Similarly, a number of restaurants will need you to pay by card. If you are an international traveler, consider getting a cash card at the airport to save on fees!

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Cool Things to do in London at Night

London really is a city that stays alive 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There is always something happening and something new to see. London at night is no different, and there’s plenty on offer beyond bars and nightclubs, although London has some of the best of these.

This blog will cover some of the coolest things you can do in London at night.

Live Music

If live music is your thing then London has it all, from up and coming new artists to world famous megastars. Check out London’s top venues and see what’s on while you’re in town.

If you want a night out with a live music vibe, make sure to check out The Piano Works. A late-night live music venue, with branches in both the West End and Farringdon, offering evenings filled with tasty food, delicious cocktails, and most of all live music. 

If that’s not memorable enough for you, make sure you stay in luxury at hotels near Paddington Station London.

Museum Lates

London’s museums and galleries now offer some really exciting after hours events, providing a unique twist on the traditional museum experience. Two of the best offers are: 

The British Library

This is everything you wouldn’t expect to find at a library. Noise and performance are pushed to the forefront and recent late night events have included electro-dance DJ sets and other live music performances. Workshops, talks and performances are also popular. 

After a night partying at the British Library you might be ready for some luxury, if so, look no further than the Chilworth Hotel London for your accommodation.

Science Museum

When the Science Museum puts on a late event they transform the entirety of its three floors. Visitors can fully experience the informative talks, themed performances and interactive activities on offer. Regular events such as a pub quiz and silent disco are also extremely popular so look out for these during your visit to London. 

Sleep at the zoo

Whipsnade Zoo also offers their own nighttime experience. Stay in a cosy lodge within the grounds of the zoo and enjoy listening to the sounds of the Zoo at night. The experience also offers exclusive tours of the zoo, at sunset, nighttime and in the morning. Dinner and breakfast are also included so what’s not to like?

Check out these Paddington hotel special offers and find the best deal for accommodation as you enjoy London at night.

The London Eye

One of the most popular attractions in London at night. The slowly spinning ride provides a bird’s-eye view of the city and with some ticket options including drinks, it’s a perfect place to make a special memory.

West End Shows

No trip to London is complete without watching a show. London has some of the best plays and musicals in the world, and there’s so much more to this cultural district than neon lights and famous faces and you could easily spend all evening in the West End.

Find your accommodation in Paddington London and make sure you stay in comfortable surroundings whilst still being perfectly located near to all London’s top landmarks.

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Best time to visit London

London is one of the world’s most beautiful and exciting cities. There’s always so much to do and see, with festivals and exhibitions held all year round. 

But there is undoubtedly a best time to visit London, and that’s summer. This blog covers some of the best things you can do at that time of year in the city.

Speedboat tour

For any thrill seekers who might be looking for ways to escape the Summer sun, a tour of London by speedboat might be just the thing. These speedboat tours will whisk you along the Thames and back, and if you’re able to keep your eyes open, you might see some of London’s iconic waterfront too.

The stunning views

London has some beautiful views across the cityscape if you know how to find them. One option is the Shard which is the highest building in Western Europe. Here you can climb up and enjoy the view, which in summer can stretch for up to 40 miles.

Or you could climb to the top of Primrose Hill. From here you’ll get a unique vantage point that can’t be found anywhere else (63 metres above sea level). Primrose Hill’s views are un-obscured by trees, but the green surroundings make for a pleasant backdrop and on a clear day, you’ll be able to spot attractions and landmarks right across London, such as The London Eye. 

What better way to unwind after a sunny London day than visiting the best restaurants in Paddington London. 

Outdoor Cinema

London offers a whole range of outdoor cinema options for a summer visit. Enjoy the longer evenings by relaxing and watching classic films in some of London’s best open air spaces. 

Notting Hill Carnival

The carnival is a part of London’s summer DNA, the Notting Hill Carnival allows you to dance through the streets of west London to the sound of steel bands. You can watch the colourful parade and enjoy some excellent Caribbean jerk chicken. 

The Chilworth Hotel London has the feel of a private members club, but the warmth of a neighbourhood cafe, it’ll make you feel at home, and relaxed, the perfect place to stay while you enjoy summer in London. 

Shopping

London has some prestigious shopping destinations to be enjoyed all year round. Including Regent Street, where you’ll find everything from high street and designer fashion brands to independent boutique shops. 

And if you’ve never visited Knightbridge, no trip to London is complete without experiencing Harrods or Harvey Nichols. These stores are famous for their prestigious location and luxury experience. You’ll be able to find (almost) anything your heart desires, from grocery shopping to ultra luxurious fashion accessories, they have it all.

Hyde Park

One of London’s premier green spaces, this Royal Park is a must-see when visiting the city in summer. There’s attractions and events to suit all tastes, and in summer you can even enjoy an afternoon swimming on the boating lake. 

Hotels near Paddington Station provide an excellent accommodation choice for any summer trip to London. Why not enjoy breakfast at the Chilwell restaurant near Paddington before heading out for a summer's day of discovery across London.

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World-famous Paintings You Can See in London

Did you know that there are over 300 art galleries and museums in the city of London? If you’re a fan of the arts, London really is the place to be. It has some of the biggest collections of worldly artefacts anywhere on the planet, giving you the opportunity to cast your eyes over some of the most treasures and significant pieces on the planet. 

So, if you’re taking advantage of one of the London hotels deals special offers and want to see some of the most revered paintings in the world, where should you go and what can you expect to see? Keep reading as we detail some of the most world-famous paintings you can find right here in London. 

1. Sunflowers by Vincent van Gogh at the National Gallery 

Vincent van Gogh is one of – if not the – most famous artists in the world. Almost everyone knows his name and can recall at least one of his iconic paintings, but did you know one of the most famous is in London? 

If you head to the National Gallery you’ll find the Sunflowers painting – well, the one with the yellow background. It was painted in 1888 in Arles, the south of France. It is widely considered to be one of his finest masterpieces, and you can see it right here in London, for free! If you’re staying at accommodation Paddington London, you’re in a prime position to stop by the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, so make sure you do. 

2. Virgin of the Rocks by Leonardo da Vinci at the National Gallery 

We’re back at the National Gallery for yet another of the most famous paintings in the world, this time by Leonardo da Vinci. You’ll likely know that there are two versions of this paintings, with the original being at the Louvre in Paris. So, how did the second come to be and how did it end up so close to the hotels near Paddington Station? 

Well, Da Vinci was commissioned by a religious group in 1483 to create some paintings, but it’s speculated that they refused to pay by the time the first version was complete. So, Da Vinci sold it, but the group came back some years later and wanted another, so he did a second version, and it’s this one that you can see at the National Gallery in London. 

3. Self Portrait at the Age of 34 by Rembrandt at the National Gallery 

The final painting on our list is once again at the National Gallery. There’s so much to see here, you may as well take a lunch break at one of the restaurants near Paddington before commencing again! Anyway, after a refreshment break, make sure you check out Rembrandt’s self-portrait of when he was 34. 

It was painted in 1640 and is one of many self-portraits he did, but this one is revered because it was painted during his peak – when he was at his most famous. 

Summary 

There are many more famous paintings to see in London during your stay at The Chilworth Paddington, but hopefully these three have whet your appetite.

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Storing your Luggage at Paddington Station

Whether you’re in London for a day trip, a weekend, or an extended holiday, a morning arrival can often mean hours of carrying your luggage and bags around while you wait for your hotel check-in to open. That’s why, here at The Chilworth London Paddington we always urge our guests to utilise the luggage storage service and facilities at Paddington station - leaving you free to explore, sight-see, and discover your surroundings unencumbered by bags.

Here’s how it works.

The Benefit of Luggage Storage

Luggage storage has become a growing phenomenon across London and a selection of other cities - making use of the proximity to accommodation that Paddington and other areas of London has and allowing visitors to keep their bags safe before check-in and after check-out.

Look at it this way: if you’ve booked to visit an attraction, or are having afternoon tea in a London hotel, you don’t want to be dragging your luggage around with you. Luggage storage allows you to leave your bags somewhere secure, returning to them later before you head to your hotel or check out and board your train home.

Everything you need to know

With Paddington station so close to some of the best London hotel deals and special offers, a handful of companies have now set up a luggage storage facility just a few minutes away from the station and its assortment of surrounding hotels. The idea behind these facilities is that visitors to London can pay for each bag that they store, with effective solutions for bags of all sizes and all values.

Around Paddington station alone, there are a selection of main providers, all offering effective and secure storage. What this means is that visitors can decide on the one which best suits their budget, their time allowance, their exact location, and the number of bags they want to store.

And that’s not the only storage option for those starting in one of the surrounding accommodation options in Paddington London.

Alternative options

Staying at The Chilworth London Paddington? One of the easiest things that you can do if you are staying close to Paddington, is head to your hotel and ask to have your bag stored in the backroom prior to check in and after check-out. By checking your bag in early, we guarantee safety of your possessions and will even make sure that you ae reunited with your bag efficiently when you return to check into your hotel room.

Dropping your bags off at a luggage storage facility or at your hotel simply means that you are free to enjoy the sights and sounds of London without being dragged back by heavy bags and luggage. From afternoon tea at a London hotel, to the assortment of museums and other attractions, keep your hands (and ready to hold all the souvenirs you pick up along the way!) 

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Getting going with yoga: top tips for yoga novices

If you’re a yoga novice and want to get going, then, like it or not, during our present pandemic, becoming a regular yoga practitioner may not be as straightforward as it otherwise might be.

Instead of joining a local yoga class, you may be faced with the prospect of going solo at home, home-practicing via an online class (definitely recommended) or, if possible, getting going with an introductory class on a mindfulness-focused break away at the likes of The Chilworth hotel (very much recommended, if possible).

However you start, though, you’ll hopefully discover yoga offers many benefits – so, here are some top tips to help you along… 

Gather together the kit you’ll need

A really great thing about yoga is you don’t need much in the way of kit. Now, if you’re staying at a yoga-friendly accommodation Paddington London, then, obviously you won’t need to worry about collecting together your own pieces of kit. However, if you’re on your own, most likely at home, you’ll find a mat is very welcome; otherwise, some poses won’t be terribly comfortable or easy to accomplish.

Moreover, while it’s only fair to point out that bits of yoga kit tend to take up some space, it’s possible to get around this by using everyday items, instead. For instance, you might try using a comfy rug for a mat and other items like soft cushions and bolsters. 

Find the right space

Of course, if you’re practicing yoga at, let’s say, a specialist location such as a London spa near Paddington, you won’t need to worry about making space for yourself each time you decide to have a session.

Alternatively, if you’re practicing on your own at home or even, possibly, somewhere at work, then finding enough space and, yes, enough quiet is what you’ll need. Depending on which positions you intend to adopt, you may find a nearby wall useful, while many people find that enhancing their space with the likes of candles and incense is helpful, too. 

Fit in yoga when it works for you

Squeezing in a yoga session whenever you want may not be easy. Rather than expecting to be spontaneous and fitting it into your day as and when you want to, a bit of thought can certainly help here.

For instance, what’s really going to work best for you; mornings or evenings? Before or after work or during lunch breaks? You might want to commit, to start with, to no more than a 10-minute session every day or every other day. Obviously, your yoga sessions are going to have to fit in with your regular life; if they don’t, you won’t be able to ensure they become a regular feature. 

Don’t forget the ‘3 Ps’

This one’s definitely crucial – and it’s not an easy one for yoga novices to get right. We’re talking avoiding pain, pinching and pushing, here; in other words, knowing your bodies boundaries when practicing different positions.

The trouble is, should you be trying these positions for the first few times, you may find it challenging to tell the difference between pain and discomfort. Note that pain is a sharp and hot sensation; discomfort is far duller, far more a nagging feeling. Either way, don’t carry on if you’re feeling any discomfort in and around any of your joints – the knees, spine, hips, neck and so on. 

Enjoy yourself

Finally, don’t lose sight of the fact that yoga’s supposed to be a pleasurable, satisfying experience, not a chore or to endure. Sure; if you’ve booked some yoga sessions during, say, a getaway at a chic London location and you’re rolling them together with visits to restaurants Paddington London, you’re probably going to enjoy yourself.

Yet, if you’re practicing yoga on your own at home, then the experience might well feel different. So be sure, in this scenario, to make it pleasurable– try playing some relaxing music in the background or invite some friends over to practice with you (social-distancing rules permitting, of course). Get creative and enjoy yourself!