The Most Picturesque Villages in London

Around these beautiful villages in London, city life never looked more charming.

Hidden amongst London’s most bustling neighbourhoods are quaint village-like pockets which bring the tranquillity of the countryside to the capital. With pastel-coloured townhouses, rustic pubs, dreamy bookshops and flower-filled parks, these picturesque enclaves have all the charm of a British village just a couple of roads from some of the city’s busiest districts. From Notting Hill and Little Venice to Highgate and Primrose Hill, here are our favourite villages in London.

NOTTING HILL

Achieving worldwide fame in 1999 thanks to the movie 'Notting Hill', this colourful area of west London is known for its pastel houses, high-end boutiques, elegant eateries and weekly antiques market. While millions of tourists have come here to follow in the footsteps of Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, Notting Hill has managed to hold onto its charming character despite its fame. Running through the middle of the ‘village’ is Portobello Road, which is flanked by stylish bars, restaurants and boutiques selling antiques, vintage wares and souvenirs. Visit on a Saturday to enjoy the buzz of the Portobello Road Market, one of the world’s largest and most famous antiques markets.

LITTLE VENICE

When it comes to picturesque villages in London, few are more photogenic than Little Venice. The neighbourhood is set along Regent’s Canal, which is usually filled with colourful houseboats. Overlooking the river are pretty houses, bars, restaurants and gardens, while bobbing on the surface of the water is a floating café and a puppet theatre. As Little Venice is so close to Maida Vale, home of the famous Maida Vale studios, the peaceful waterside village has long been a favourite of musicians – singers such as Robbie Williams, Noel Gallagher and Björk have all bought houses here.

PRIMROSE HILL

An upscale neighbourhood surrounding a hilltop park, Primrose Hill is one of the trendiest villages in London. In the 1990s, it was home to celebrities including Jude Law and Kate Moss; nowadays, it’s noticeably calmer but just as desirable. Rows of millionaires’ mansions surround the park and from its grassy pinnacle, visitors can discover some of the best panoramic views of the capital. Back at ground level, the Regent’s Park Road area is filled with trendy eateries, independent art galleries and upscale boutiques.

CHELSEA

Chelsea is an affluent area that has been highly coveted for hundreds of years, long before the television show 'Made in Chelsea' hit the country’s screens. The neighbourhood, which borders the River Thames, is notoriously exclusive and features rows of magnificent white townhouses and a magnitude of excellent restaurants and bars. As the former heart of the swinging sixties, it’s also full of shopping potential.

HIGHGATE

If you have the time to venture north, make sure to visit Highgate. The stunning hilltop neighbourhood is filled with quintessential English cafés, historic pubs, gorgeous parks and giant mansions owned by affluent Londoners. Highgate also houses one of England’s most picturesque burial places, Highgate Cemetery, where hundreds of influential people have been laid to rest. Far from spooky or macabre, the grade I-listed site is a beautiful nature reserve with some of the finest funerary architecture in the country.

Longevity & Regeneration Retreat

Savour a curated itinerary of wellness activities aimed at promoting longevity and holistic well-being with the LRI.

A Night On Us

Enjoy an extra night on us and savour that Corinthia London feeling for a little longer. Book three nights and pay for two.

Parents and daughter with London Eye in the background

London Calling

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast, a bottle of champagne and a late check-out, plus receive hotel credit to spend on dining. Book this luxury hotel offer now.

How to spend an extra day in London

Read more

How to spend an extra day in London

If you find yourself with a bonus day in this metropolis, you're in for a treat.
Meet Begg x Co

Read more

Meet Begg x Co

Learn more about the designers behind our bespoke Corinthia London blanket, from their artistic process to what's next for the brand.
Meet Whitney Bromberg Hawkings

Read more

Meet Whitney Bromberg Hawkings

We speak with the Founder and CEO of FLOWERBX to discuss bouquets, sustainability and memorable moments.
Longevity Screening at the LRI

Read more

Longevity Screening at the LRI

The LRI's Founder tells us about their cutting-edge longevity screening and anti-ageing innovations.
A Thousand Words: Cocktails at Kerridge's Bar & Grill

Read more

A Thousand Words: Cocktails at Kerridge's Bar & Grill

Let us take you through our expertly curated collection of art-inspired cocktails at Kerridge's Bar & Grill.
Meet Spread a Smile

Read more

Meet Spread a Smile

We speak to the charity's CEO, Lucy Jackson, about their noble mission and why brand partnerships are so important.
Meet Mr. Tunç Tiryaki

Read more

Meet Mr. Tunç Tiryaki

We spoke to the Founder of the LRI about the concept of longevity and their groundbreaking anti-ageing solutions in London.
In Conversation with Mr. Tunç Tiryaki

Read more

In Conversation with Mr. Tunç Tiryaki

Read about regenerative medicine, longevity and what we can all be doing to live longer.
Meet Jennifer Williams

Read more

Meet Jennifer Williams

Jam connoisseur and Founder of Naked Jam, Jen tells us about her journey and inspirations.
A Guide to British Afternoon Tea in London

Read more

A Guide to British Afternoon Tea in London

Discover everything you need to know about British Afternoon Tea in London, from heritage and traditions to how to properly construct a scone.
The Most Picturesque Villages in London

Read more

The Most Picturesque Villages in London

Take a break from city centre bustle and spend some time in the picturesque villages of London, from Highgate to Little Venice and beyond.
Refresh & Rejuvenate: Spa Days in London at ESPA Life

Read more

Refresh & Rejuvenate: Spa Days in London at ESPA Life

Your spa day in London awaits at ESPA Life at Corinthia. Discover revitalising rituals, nurturing therapies and purifying treatments.