Local schools
we’ve put together some tips to make the decision easier. P9
Food & Drink
Best places for food & drink around your area P16
Adding value to your home
Six proven strategies to boost your home’s value P24
CONTENTS
4 9 16
Local area
Our corner of London Kensington is a name synonymous with sophistication. Known for its elegant architecture, cultural landmarks and refined lifestyle, it is one of London’s most desirable addresses.
Local schools
Tips
for parents
When choosing where our kids will learn and grow, it’s super important to think it through. To help you out, we’ve put together some tips to make the decision easier.
Food & drink
Best places for food & drink
Find local food venues and restaurants that are loved by foodies throughout the neighbourhood – from all-day dining hotspots and cosy gastropubs, to local Japanese restaurants, Instagrammable brunch favourites and unique eateries.
24 20 22
Expert advice
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Expert advice
Mortgage puzzle
In the UK, obtaining a mortgage is the most common method for individuals to purchase property. Mortgages come in various types, each with its own terms, conditions, and repayment structures tailored to suit different financial situations and preferences.
Adding value to your home
7 Great strategies
In the realm of real estate, adding value to your home is not just about sprucing up its appearance; it’s an investment that can yield significant returns when done strategically.
EDITORIAL
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Winkworth Magazine is published by Work-Haus Limited. Nothing in this magazine can be reproduced in whole or part without the express permission of the publishers. Transparencies or any other material submitted for publication or any other material are sent at the owner’s risk and while every care is taken. Work-Haus has endeavoured to ensure that all the information in this magazine is accurate at the time of going to press, however prices and details may be subject to change.
Welcome,
Dear Homeowner,
Congratulations on your new home and welcome to the timeless charm of Kensington. On behalf of everyone at Winkworth Kensington, we’re delighted to introduce you to a neighbourhood that blends elegance, history, and a strong sense of community.
Kensington is truly one of London’s jewels. With its grand architecture, world-class museums, lush parks, and treelined avenues, the area offers an exceptional quality of life. Whether you’re taking a morning walk through Kensington Gardens, exploring cultural treasures like the Royal Albert Hall, or enjoying fine dining along High Street Kensington, there’s always something new to discover just outside your door.
THIS IS A BIT SHORT
Loving what we do since 1835
Winkworth agents love what they do and pride themselves on having a unique perspective on the entire process of matching people with homes. From the little things we see that others miss, to the neighbourhoods we know like the back of our hands. Because where others see customers, we see people. And where others see houses, we see homes.
Our business model means each and every agent is an established and independent professional in their neighbourhood, making us uniquely positioned to offer you, our clients, a more in-depth and insightful experience.
Joshua Grinling Director
Our CORNER of LONDON
Kensington is a name synonymous with sophistication. Known for its elegant architecture, cultural landmarks and refined lifestyle, it is one of London’s most desirable addresses. From leafy garden squares to grand avenues, this is a neighbourhood where history, culture and convenience come together in perfect balance.
KENSINGTON
ARCHITECTURAL GRANDEUR AND HIDDEN CHARM
Walking through Kensington is a lesson in architectural beauty. White stucco townhouses, red-brick mansion blocks and elegant period terraces line its streets, many opening onto leafy private gardens. Behind these façades are some of the city’s most sought-after homes, ranging from spacious family houses to stylish apartments. Beyond its grand avenues, Kensington reveals a more intimate character: charming mews streets, quiet courtyards and independent shops that give the area a distinct village atmosphere, despite being in the heart of the capital.
CULTURAL RICHES
Kensington is home to some of the world’s greatest museums and galleries. The Victoria and Albert Museum, the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum sit side by side, offering endless inspiration. The Royal Albert Hall brings international music and performance to the doorstep, while Kensington High Street offers both global brands and boutique shopping.
GREEN AND SERENE
Kensington is also defined by its green spaces. Kensington Gardens – with its formal lawns, ornamental flowerbeds and the Serpentine Galleries – sits at
its heart, seamlessly linking into Hyde Park. Holland Park, with its Kyoto Garden, playgrounds and opera performances, provides another oasis for residents to enjoy.
EDUCATION AND CONNECTIVITY
Families are particularly drawn to Kensington for its exceptional schools. A wealth of top-performing primaries and prestigious independents are located in and around the area, making it an ideal choice for those prioritising education. Transport links are equally impressive: High Street Kensington, Gloucester Road and South Kensington stations offer access to multiple Underground lines, while Heathrow and Gatwick are easily reached for international travel.
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A LIFESTYLE OF DISTINCTION
Kensington is not only about grand addresses – it is about lifestyle. Michelinstarred dining, neighbourhood cafés, traditional pubs and contemporary gyms all sit side by side, offering choice at every turn. The area’s combination of world-class culture, fine dining, excellent schools and exceptional transport makes it one of the most complete places to live in London.
FINDING YOUR HOME WITH WINKWORTH
Winkworth’s Kensington office has been helping buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants navigate this market for decades. With deep local knowledge and an appreciation for the area’s diversity of homes, our team can help you find the right property – whether a grand family townhouse, a lateral apartment or a discreet pied-à-terre. To move to Kensington is to place yourself at the heart of London living, surrounded by elegance, culture and convenience. For those seeking a home that embodies both refinement and practicality, there are few addresses to rival it.
When choosing where our kids will learn and grow, it’s very important to consider carefully. To help you out, we’ve put together some tips to make the decision easier. Lots of schools and daycares offer free tours, so we really recommend checking them out before you decide where your child will go.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
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Queen’s Gate School
Independent girls’ school for ages 4–19, consistently ranked #1 in Kensington by School Guide.
Senior School: 131–133 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5LE; Junior School: 125–126 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LJ www.queensgate.org.uk
St Barnabas and St Philip’s CofE Primary School
Mixed, voluntary-aided Church of England primary for ages 4–11, ranked second.
Pembroke Mews, 58 Earls Court Road, Kensington, London W8 6EJ www.sbsp.rbkc.sch.uk
St Mary Abbots CofE Primary School
Mixed Church of England primary (ages 5–11), ranked third.
2 Kensington Church Court, Kensington, London W8 4SP www.sma.rbkc.sch.uk
Our Lady of Victories RC Primary School
Mixed Roman Catholic voluntaryaided primary (ages 4–11), ranked fourth.
Clareville Street, Kensington, London SW7 5AQ
www.olov.rbkc.sch.uk
Kensington Primary Academy
Mixed sponsor-led academy for ages 3–11, ranked fifth.
205 Warwick Road, Kensington, London W14 8PU
www.wlfs-kpa.org
Collingham College
Private co-ed college focused on GCSE and sixth-form education with exceptional academic support and alum of note.
Sixth Form: 23 Collingham Gardens, London SW5 0HL; GCSE Dept: 16 Young Street, London W8 5EH www.collingham.co.uk
Fox Primary School
Co-educational community primary (ages 4–11), noted among best state schools.
Kensington Place, Edge Street, Notting Hill, London W8 7PP www.fox.rbkc.sch.uk
Holland Park School
Co-ed secondary and sixth form academy, “flagship” of comprehensive education, rated Outstanding.
Airlie Gardens, Campden Hill Road, London W8 7AF www.hollandparkschool.co.uk
Cardinal Vaughan Memorial RC School
Outstanding state secondary with strong academic results.
89 Addison Road, London W14 8BZ www.cvms.co.uk
Four steps to selecting a school for your child
STEP 1
Understand your child’s
needs
When selecting a school for your child it is important to take into account your child’s individual needs, learning style, interests, and goals when making this decision.
STEP 2
Research different schools
Once parents know what type of a school their child will benefit in, they should start researching these schools and make a list. By researching different schools, parents can get an in-depth understanding of the educational opportunities that each school provides and determine which school would be best suited for their child’s needs. Additionally, researching on different schools can provide parents with insight into the safety and security measures that are in place at each school, and give them a better idea of the quality of education they will be providing for their child.
STEP 3
TIPS FOR PARENTS
Visit the shortlisted schools
Once parents have made a list of the shortlisted schools, the next step should be to visit them. Visiting different schools gives parents an opportunity to assess the quality and worthiness of each school and determine which one is best suited for their child.
STEP 4
Application Form
For a parent, the final step to selecting a school for your child should be to apply to the top selected schools. It’s important not to restrict yourself to only one application—apply to at least 2–3 of the best schools in case your child doesn’t get selected by one. Also, try to start the application process as early as possible before the schools stop taking in more students.
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Best
PLACES FOR FOOD & DRINK
AROUND YOUR AREA
OUR PICK OF THE LOCAL PLACES FOR FOOD & DRINK
One of the most exciting aspects of local life is our abundance of restaurants and eateries. We truly are spoilt for choice and the best way to find your favourite table is to go out and explore but if you wanted to take a short cut then here are a few suggestions courtesy of Winkworth.
Yashin Ocean House
Elegant, theatrical Japanese dining with dishes elevated by truffle, caviar, dry-ice presentations, and occasional candyfloss theatrics. Stylish ambiance with premium pricing. www.yashinocean.com
Al Dente
Fresh-pasta Italian eatery offering classics like cacio e pepe in moody, intimate surroundings. Friendly service, excellent quality, and moderate pricing make it a versatile choice. www.aldenterestaurant.com
The Abingdon
Cosy British comfort fare—soups, buffalo fried chicken, sticky toffee pudding—served in candle-lit, homely surroundings. Perfect for long, relaxed dinners with moderate fine-dining prices. www.theabingdon.co.uk
Jacuzzi (Big Mamma group)
Tuscan-villa vibes with chandeliers and courtyard mezzanine. Pretty good Italian fare—especially pizza—in a romantic, whimsical setting. Moderate-to-high pricing.
www.bigmammagroup.com/en/ trattorias/jacuzzi
Casa Brindisa / Le Comptoir Libanais / Cambio de Tercio / Margaux – Tapas and Lebanese cafés around South Kensington. Casual, colourful, and moderately priced—ideal for museum visits or casual meals.
Casa Brindisa: www.brindisakitchens.com
Le Comptoir Libanais: www.comptoirlibanais.com
Cambio de Tercio: www.cambiodetercio.co.uk
Margaux: www.margauxrestaurant.co.uk
The Goat, Kensington High Street Kensington’s oldest surviving pub (since 1695). Historic alehouse with traditional character and longstanding community roots. Casual, reasonably priced. www.goatkingsroad.com
The Churchill Arms Famous for its exuberant floral façade and Thai-pub fusion. Festive décor yearround and a quirky, lively atmosphere; serving pub classics and Thai dishes— accessible mid-range pricing. www.churchillarmskensington.co.uk
The Hansom Cab
Grade II listed pub on Earl’s Court Road, with heritage charm in a quiet corner of Kensington. Classic British pub offering in a historic setting; casual pricing.
www.hansomcabpub.co.uk
Scarsdale Tavern
Elegant Edwardes Square pub that won Evening Standard Pub of the Year (1989). A refined yet relaxed spot for quality pub fare in a stylish residential setting.
www.scarsdaletavern.co.uk
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SUSTAINABLE NEED TEXT
SUSTAINABLE HOMEOWNER TEXT AND IMAGES
MORTGAGE PUZZLE
In the UK, obtaining a mortgage is the most method for individuals to purchase property. Mortgages come in various types, each with its own terms, conditions, and repayment structures tailored to suit different financial situations and preferences. Here are some of the different types of mortgages available.
A fixed-rate mortgage offers borrowers the stability of having the same interest rate for a set period, typically ranging from two to ten years. Regardless of fluctuations in the market interest rates, the borrower’s monthly repayments remain consistent. This provides certainty and makes budgeting easier for homeowners. However, fixed-rate mortgages often come with higher initial interest rates compared to variable-rate mortgages. Variable rate mortgages, also known as adjustable-rate mortgages
fluctuates, the interest rate on the mortgage adjusts accordingly. Tracker mortgages typically offer lower initial interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages, but borrowers should be prepared for potential increases in monthly repayments if the base rate rises.
Discount mortgages offer borrowers a discount on the lender’s standard variable rate for a set period, typically two to five years. The discount is usually expressed as a percentage below the lender’s standard variable rate. While borrowers benefit from lower initial interest rates during the discount period, their monthly repayments can increase once the discount
It’s essential for borrowers to carefully consider their financial situation, long-term goals, and risk tolerance when selecting the most suitable mortgage type for their circumstances.
period ends and the mortgage reverts to the lender’s standard variable rate.
(ARMs), have interest rates that can fluctuate over the loan term based on changes in the lender’s standard variable rate or another benchmark rate, such as the Bank of England’s base rate. Borrowers may benefit from lower initial interest rates compared to fixed-rate mortgages, but their monthly repayments can increase or decrease depending on market conditions. This type of mortgage may suit those who are comfortable with potential fluctuations in their monthly payments.
Offset mortgages allow borrowers to link their mortgage account to their savings or current account. The balance in these accounts is offset against the outstanding mortgage balance, reducing the amount of interest charged on the mortgage. Borrowers continue to have access to their savings and can withdraw funds as needed. Offset mortgages can help borrowers reduce the overall interest they pay over the loan term and potentially shorten the mortgage term.
on the loan each month, not the capital. This leads to lower monthly payments compared to repayment options but requires a separate plan—such as savings or investments—to repay the original loan amount at the end of the term. These mortgages may appeal to investors or individuals with irregular income who anticipate having the means to repay the capital later.
Also
known as capital and interest mortgages, these require monthly payments that cover both the interest and a portion of the capital borrowed. Over time, the loan balance gradually decreases until fully repaid by the end of the term. This structure provides the reassurance of knowing the mortgage will be paid off, making it a preferred option for many homeowners.
in summary
The UK mortgage market offers a wide range of products to match various financial needs and preferences. Whether the priority is stability, flexibility, or lower monthly payments, there’s an option to suit. It’s essential for borrowers to evaluate their financial situation, longterm goals, and risk tolerance carefully. Seeking advice from a mortgage advisor or financial expert can help in making a well-informed decision.
Tracker mortgages are linked to a specific base rate, usually the Bank of England’s base rate, plus a set percentage. As the base rate
With an interest-only mortgage, borrowers pay only the interest
adding to your home value
6 GREAT STRATEGIES
In the realm of real estate, adding value to your home is not just about sprucing up its appearance; it’s an investment that can yield significant returns when done strategically. Whether you’re looking to sell your property in the near future or simply aiming to enhance your living space, here are six proven strategies to boost your home’s value.
KERB APPEAL ENHANCEMENT
The first impression matters. Invest in enhancing your home’s kerb appeal by maintaining a well-manicured lawn, planting colorful flowers, and adding appealing exterior lighting.
Fresh paint for the front door and clean, well-defined pathways can make a world of difference. Potential buyers or visitors should feel drawn to your home from the moment they arrive.
KITCHEN REMODELING
The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, and it’s a prime area for adding value. Focus on modernizing the kitchen with updated appliances, countertops, and cabinetry. Opt for timeless designs and neutral colors that appeal to a broad range of tastes. Additionally, consider adding functional elements such as a kitchen island or a pantry to increase both aesthetics and utility.
BATHROOM UPGRADES
Similar to kitchens, bathrooms are key selling points for homes. Upgrading fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, can instantly give a bathroom a more luxurious feel. Consider replacing worn-out tiles, installing energy-efficient toilets, and adding extra storage space. A clean, well-maintained bathroom can significantly increase your home’s value and appeal.
ENERGY-EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS
In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy-efficient homes are highly sought after.
Investing in energy-saving upgrades not only reduces utility bills but also adds value to your property. Consider installing solar panels, upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors, and enhancing insulation. These improvements not only benefit the environment but also make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
a more open floor plan. This can make your home feel larger and more inviting, ultimately increasing its value. However, be sure to consult with a professional to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes.
SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION
Incorporating smart home technology can make your property more desirable and valuable in today’s techsavvy market. Install smart thermostats, lighting systems, security cameras, and door locks that can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. Not only do these technologies enhance convenience and security, but they also appeal to buyers looking for modern amenities.
in conclusion
OPEN FLOOR PLAN
Many modern homeowners prefer open, spacious layouts that facilitate seamless interaction between different areas of the house. If feasible, consider knocking down non-load-bearing walls to create
Adding value to your home involves a combination of aesthetic enhancements, functional upgrades, and strategic investments. By focusing on areas such as kerb appeal, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, energy efficiency, open floor plans, smart home technology, and additional living space, you can significantly increase your property’s value and appeal to potential buyers. Remember to prioritize improvements that align with your budget, market trends, and the preferences of your target demographic. With careful planning and execution, your home can become not only a comfortable living space but also a lucrative asset.
