Spring in London is pure magic, and Notting Hill and Holland Park are the perfect places to soak it all in. As magnolias and cherry blossoms bloom, these charming streets and gardens turn into a pastel dream.

Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON takes you on a self-guided walk to the prettiest blossom spots! So grab your camera and soak up the spring magic!

 

Chasing blossoms in Notting Hill

Notting Hill is famous for its pastel-coloured houses, elegant townhouses, and vibrant streets, but in spring, the area takes on an even more enchanting look. If the magnolia trees take the spotlight with their big, soft pink and white flowers, the cherry blossoms follow, spilling down the streets and making everything feel like a scene from a fairy tale. 

Simply follow this guided walk to experience the best of spring in Notting Hill!

This walk begins at Notting Hill Gate, where you’ll head straight toward Pembridge Square (via Pembridge Gardens), a charming, tree-lined garden square surrounded by elegant Victorian townhouses. 

The square gardens are known for their peaceful, lush greenery and beautifully maintained flowerbeds, creating a serene oasis in the heart of Notting Hill. The grand architecture and inviting atmosphere make it a perfect spot to pause and soak in the quintessential charm of the area.

Then turn left onto Chepstow Place (which will transform later into Chepstow Road), where some magnolia trees line the elegant streets. 

Look out for a charming pink door with playful eyes (it took me so long to find it!), perfectly framed by a blooming magnolia. It’s an Instagram favourite for a reason!

As you make your way along Artesian Road and Westbourne Grove (follow the map for directions), you’ll find charming spots where blossoms frame colourful townhouses. Very inspiring for all photographers!

At the end of Artesian Road, turn left onto Ledbury Road and continue until you reach Westbourne Grove, then turn right. This bustling stretch is full of life, lined with stylish boutiques, charity shops, organic grocers, and plenty of cozy cafés to grab a break.

You will easily spot the stunning magnolia trees which line the front of these stylish shops, casting soft pink hues that are especially magical in the early morning light.

I suggest turning right as soon as you cross Portobello Road. 

No walk through Notting Hill is complete without a stroll down this iconic street, famous for its vibrant market, antique gems, and colourful buildings that are total showstoppers!

Once you see the OKA restaurant, head towards Elgin Crescent and Lansdowne Road, two of Notting Hill’s most iconic streets for spring blossoms. 

The elegant, pastel-toned façades always leave me in awe, especially when framed by soft pink and white blooms. 

The gentle curve of the roads, often sprinkled with fallen petals, creates picture-perfect scenes. And if you’re lucky, you might catch petals drifting through the air, adding a touch of magic to your stroll.

Finally, make your way to Stanley Crescent (below) and watch these majestic cherry trees (famous to all instagrammers). The contrast between the grand architecture and the delicate petals floating in the breeze is truly breathtaking.

A floral escape in Holland Park

Your walk continues through St John’s Gardens, a quiet, leafy retreat that’s perfect for a peaceful pause, especially with spring blossoms all around. From there, turn right onto Clarendon Road, then left, where you’ll soon come across a charming little spot home to the iconic Julie’s restaurant. 

You will then turn left onto Portland Road and walk until you reach Holland Park Avenue. 

You’ll spot a few trees in full bloom, which really brighten up the street.

Once you reach Holland Park Avenue, turn left, then right to follow Holland Park until you reach the park entrance. This park is a hidden gem in spring, with cherry blossoms, magnolias, and vibrant daffodils in full bloom, creating a burst of colour at every turn.

I arrived a bit late in the season the other day, and some of the cherry trees had already lost their freshness. It’s tough to predict when the season really kicks off, but once it does, it fades fast! Best to stay on the lookout from the end of March to catch them at their peak bloom!

Kyoto Garden is always a must-visit, offering a peaceful escape where you can soak in the serene beauty of nature and towering trees. If you’re lucky, you might even spot or hear the striking peacocks that roam the area!

If you want to add more to this walk, take a little detour down Addison Road, Oakwood Ct, or Holland Park Road for even more floral sights before wrapping up your blossom hunt.

I hope you enjoyed this post! If you’re planning to explore the blossoms in Notting Hill and Holland Park before it’s too late (this weekend?), I’d love to hear about your experience. Feel free to share it on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON’s blog!

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To go further:

Best time to visit: Late March to mid-April, depending on the bloom cycle
📍 Starting Point:  Notting Hill Gate
📍 Ending Point: Holland Park tube station
📍 Walking Distance: ~3.7 miles (around 1 hour 30 minutes with photo stops)
📍 Tips: Bring your camera, wear comfy shoes, and visit early for the best lighting and fewer crowds!

Check out my other spring recommendations in and around London here.

Holland Park website here.