Location Guide
HAMMERSMITH TATTOO LONDON
HAMMERSMITH TATTOO LONDON
Holland Park is a beautiful and affluent area in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London. It is renowned for its elegant residential streets, cultural heritage, and expansive green spaces, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Holland Park, the actual park, is a serene 54-acre green space that combines formal gardens, woodlands, and recreational facilities. Key highlights include:
Kyoto Garden: A stunning Japanese garden gifted by the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1991. It features a koi pond, a tiered waterfall, and a peaceful ambiance.
Holland House: The remnants of a Jacobean mansion that was largely destroyed during WWII. Its ruins now serve as a backdrop for cultural events and open-air opera performances.
Wildlife: The park is home to peacocks, rabbits, and a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Recreational Facilities: Includes tennis courts, a playground, and open spaces for picnicking and sports.
Kensington Gardens is one of the Royal Parks of London, offering a serene and expansive green space that spans 265 acres. It is located to the west of Hyde Park, with which it was once unified. This beautifully landscaped park is rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Kensingtn Palace: A historic royal residence and the official London home of several members of the Royal Family. The palace is open to the public, offering exhibits about royal history and life.
Italian Gardens: An ornate, 19th-century water garden featuring fountains, classical statues, and well-maintained flower beds. It's a tranquil spot for relaxation and photography.
Albert Memorial: A grandiose Victorian monument commissioned by Queen Victoria in memory of her husband, Prince Albert. It is an iconic symbol of the park.
Peter Pan Statue: A charming bronze statue of the beloved literary character Peter Pan, situated near the Long Water. It’s a favorite spot for children and fans of J.M. Barrie's classic stories.
The Serpentine Gallery: An acclaimed contemporary art gallery housed in two locations within the park. It regularly hosts innovative exhibitions.
The Round Pond: A peaceful area ideal for sailing model boats, bird-watching, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Walking and Cycling Paths: The park is crisscrossed by well-maintained paths, perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or cycling.
Wildlife and Gardens: Kensington Gardens is home to diverse wildlife, including swans, ducks, and other waterfowl. The well-tended flower beds and lawns add to the park's charm.
Playgrounds: The Diana Memorial Playground, inspired by the story of Peter Pan, is a delightful space for children, featuring a large pirate ship and other imaginative play areas.
Hyde Park, located in central London, is one of the largest and most famous parks in the city, offering a serene escape amidst the bustling urban environment. Covering 350 acres, the park is part of the Royal Parks and boasts a rich history dating back to 1536 when it was established by King Henry VIII as a hunting ground.
The Serpentine: A large, picturesque lake at the park's heart, perfect for boating, paddleboarding, and enjoying views of waterfowl. It's also home to the Serpentine Swimming Club.
Speaker's Corner: Situated near Marble Arch, this iconic area has been a venue for public speeches and debates since the 19th century. Anyone can voice their opinions here, making it a symbol of free speech.
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain: A modern and interactive tribute to the late Princess Diana, designed for visitors to walk or sit by the flowing water.
Kensington Gardens: While technically a separate park, it seamlessly connects to Hyde Park and includes landmarks like Kensington Palace and the Albert Memorial.
Hyde Park Bandstand: One of the oldest surviving bandstands in Britain, where live music performances are often held.
Open Spaces: The park offers wide-open meadows, tree-lined avenues, and plenty of picnic spots, making it a haven for joggers, cyclists, and walkers.
Memorials and Statues: Hyde Park features various historical and artistic installations, including the 7 July Memorial and the Joy of Life Fountain.
Events and Activities: Hyde Park is a cultural hub, hosting events like Winter Wonderland during Christmas, open-air concerts, and various exhibitions throughout the year.
Richmond Park is one of London's largest and most beautiful Royal Parks, spanning over 2,500 acres in the borough of Richmond upon Thames. Known for its natural beauty and serene landscapes, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city while preserving a variety of wildlife, including its famous free-roaming deer.
1. Natural Landscapes
Woodlands and Grasslands: The park features ancient woodlands, grassy meadows, and ponds that create a rich and biodiverse ecosystem.
Isabella Plantation: A stunning 40-acre ornamental woodland garden filled with exotic plants and seasonal blooms, particularly vibrant in spring.
2. Wildlife
Richmond Park is a designated National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Home to herds of red and fallow deer, which have roamed freely since the park's establishment by Charles I in the 17th century.
Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot woodpeckers, kestrels, and various waterfowl.
3. Outdoor Activities
Walking and Cycling: There are numerous trails and paths for both leisurely strolls and challenging bike rides.
Horse Riding: Bridleways are available for equestrian enthusiasts.
Photography: The park's landscapes, wildlife, and seasonal beauty make it a favorite spot for photographers.
4. Historical Significance
Richmond Park was originally created as a royal hunting ground and retains much of its historical character.
Pembroke Lodge, a Georgian mansion located in the park, offers stunning views of the Thames Valley and is a popular venue for events.
5. Scenic Views
King Henry’s Mound: A vantage point providing a protected view of St. Paul’s Cathedral in central London, framed perfectly by an avenue of trees, despite being miles away.
Leighton House Museum, located in Kensington, London, is a unique historic house museum and former home of Victorian artist Frederic Leighton. Renowned for its fusion of Victorian and Middle Eastern design, highlights include the Arab Hall, adorned with Islamic tiles and a gold-leafed dome, and Leighton’s studio, where he created many of his masterpieces. The museum also showcases his art, alongside works by contemporaries from the Pre-Raphaelite movement.
Visitors can explore the Silk Room, serene gardens, and opulent interiors that reflect Leighton’s artistic vision. Located at 12 Holland Park Road, it’s a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts.
The Natural History Museum in London, located in South Kensington, is one of the world’s most renowned museums, celebrated for its stunning architecture and vast collections showcasing the natural world.
Iconic Building: The museum's Romanesque-style architecture, often called the "cathedral of nature," is a masterpiece itself. The grand entrance hall, Hintze Hall, features a soaring skeleton of a blue whale named Hope.
Exhibits: Over 80 million specimens span areas like botany, zoology, paleontology, and geology. Highlights include the Dinosaur Gallery, with a life-sized animatronic T-Rex, and the Fossil Marine Reptiles.
Interactive Displays: From a walk-through model of the Earth in the Volcanoes and Earthquakes gallery to hands-on activities for children, it’s designed for all ages.
Garden and Wildlife: The Wildlife Garden showcases native British species and biodiversity.
The Science Museum in London, located in South Kensington, is a leading destination for exploring the wonders of science, technology, and innovation. Known for its interactive exhibits and engaging displays, it’s a favorite for families, students, and curious minds.
Fascinating Galleries: Explore topics like space exploration, robotics, and medical advancements. Key attractions include:
Apollo 10 Command Module: A spacecraft that orbited the Moon.
Energy Hall: Featuring historic steam engines and turbines.
Medicine Galleries: Showcasing the history of medical science.
Interactive Experiences:
Hands-on exhibits in the Wonderlab, perfect for children and families.
Immersive 3D films at the IMAX Theatre and VR experiences.
Special Exhibitions: Regularly hosts groundbreaking temporary exhibitions on cutting-edge scientific topics.
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), located in South Kensington, London, is the world’s leading museum of art, design, and performance. Founded in 1852, it houses a vast collection spanning over 5,000 years of human creativity.
Diverse Collections: The V&A’s treasures include:
Fashion and Textiles: From historic garments to contemporary couture.
Sculpture: Masterpieces from Europe, Asia, and beyond.
Decorative Arts: Ceramics, glass, and jewelry showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Furniture and Architecture: Iconic designs from different eras.
Exquisite Galleries: Explore themed spaces like the Medieval and Renaissance Galleries or the British Galleries, celebrating art and design history.
Special Exhibitions: Regularly hosts critically acclaimed exhibitions on fashion, design, and culture, often requiring advance booking.
Stunning Architecture: The building itself is a masterpiece, featuring intricate details, a grand courtyard, and a tranquil garden.
The Design Museum in London, located in Kensington, is dedicated to contemporary design in all its forms, including architecture, fashion, graphics, product design, and digital innovation. It’s a hub for exploring how design shapes our world.
Innovative Exhibitions: Features cutting-edge displays on topics like sustainability, technology, and iconic designers. Past exhibits have spotlighted names like Stanley Kubrick, Louis Vuitton, and Nike.
Permanent Collection: The Designer Maker User gallery explores the evolution of design through iconic objects, from furniture to digital devices.
Interactive Experiences: Workshops, talks, and hands-on activities bring design to life for visitors of all ages.
Architecture: Housed in the iconic former Commonwealth Institute building, the museum's sleek design and central atrium are architectural attractions in themselves.
Harrods, located in London's Knightsbridge district, is one of the world's most renowned luxury department stores. Established in 1849 by Charles Henry Harrod, it has evolved into a symbol of opulence and high-end retail.
Store Highlights:
Extensive Departments: Spanning over seven floors, Harrods houses more than 330 departments, offering a vast array of products from fashion and beauty to homeware and technology.
The Food Halls: These iconic halls present a diverse selection of gourmet foods, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and an array of international delicacies.
Luxury Brands: Harrods features boutiques from leading designers and brands, providing an unparalleled shopping experience for luxury goods.
Notting Hill, located in West London, is a charming and fashionable neighborhood known for its colorful houses, vibrant culture, and eclectic offerings. It's a popular destination for its mix of history, art, and entertainment.
Portobello Road Market: A world-famous market offering antiques, vintage goods, food, and unique treasures. Saturdays are especially lively.
Iconic Colorful Houses: The pastel-colored terraced homes make for an iconic photo spot and embody the neighborhood's charm.
Notting Hill Carnival: Held every August, this vibrant Caribbean festival features parades, music, food, and dancing, attracting millions of visitors.
Film Connection: Known for its association with the 1999 romantic comedy Notting Hill, starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. You can visit landmarks from the film, like the blue door and the travel bookshop.
Art and Galleries: Boutique galleries and street art make Notting Hill a hub for creativity and expression.
Portobello Road Market, located in the vibrant Notting Hill district of London, is one of the world’s most famous street markets. Known for its eclectic mix of antiques, fashion, food, and vintage treasures, it’s a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Antiques: Renowned for its antique stalls, especially on Saturdays, offering everything from rare collectibles to vintage jewelry and furniture.
Fashion and Accessories: A hotspot for vintage clothing, unique accessories, and independent designer pieces.
Food Stalls: Explore diverse cuisines, fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan treats, perfect for food lovers.
Eclectic Atmosphere: The market’s vibrant vibe is enhanced by street performers, colorful storefronts, and a mix of cultures.
Second-Hand Goods: Find hidden gems among books, vinyl records, and quirky knick-knacks.
King's Road, located in Chelsea, London, is an iconic street renowned for its stylish boutiques, upscale dining, and rich cultural history. Once the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture and fashion revolution, it remains a chic and vibrant destination.
Fashion and Shopping:
High-end boutiques and designer stores.
Unique independent shops offering one-of-a-kind pieces.
Home to historic fashion landmarks like the site of Mary Quant’s boutique, the birthplace of the miniskirt.
Cafes and Dining:
A mix of elegant restaurants, cozy cafes, and trendy bistros offering diverse cuisines.
Perfect for afternoon tea or a leisurely meal after shopping.
Art and Design:
The Saatchi Gallery at Duke of York Square, showcasing contemporary art.
Home and interior design shops, ideal for those seeking inspiration or unique pieces.
Historic Charm:
A blend of modern sophistication with historic buildings and a connection to the 1960s Swinging London movement.
Brompton Cemetery, located in West London, is one of the city's "Magnificent Seven" cemeteries and a serene oasis rich in history, architecture, and natural beauty. Established in 1840, it is now a Grade I-listed site and part of the Royal Parks.
Architectural Splendor:
Inspired by ancient Roman designs, the cemetery features an impressive colonnaded Great Circle, an elegant chapel, and ornate tombs.
The catacombs and Victorian funerary art showcase intricate craftsmanship.
Historical Significance:
Final resting place for notable figures such as suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst, inventor John Snow (pioneer of modern anesthesia), and actor Brian Glover.
The cemetery has links to literary works and was used as a filming location for movies like Sherlock Holmes.
Natural Beauty:
A haven for wildlife, with diverse flora and fauna including wildflowers, birds, and bats.
Peaceful walking paths make it a favorite for reflection and photography.
Events and Tours:
Regularly hosts guided tours highlighting the cemetery's history, notable residents, and architecture.
Seasonal events and exhibitions are occasionally held on the grounds.
The O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire, located in West London, is a historic music venue renowned for its rich heritage and vibrant performances. Established in 1903, it has evolved from a music hall to a BBC television theatre, and since 1994, it has been a premier live music venue.
Key Features:
Historic Significance: Designed by architect Frank Matcham, the venue has hosted a diverse array of performances, from early 20th-century music hall acts to contemporary artists.
Architectural Charm: The Grade II listed building retains much of its original character, offering an intimate atmosphere with a capacity of approximately 2,000.
Diverse Performances: Over the years, it has featured a wide range of artists and events, including concerts, comedy shows, and special events
Bush Hall, located at 310 Uxbridge Road in Shepherd's Bush, West London, is a historic independent music venue renowned for its rich heritage and intimate atmosphere.
Historical Background:
Established in 1904: Originally built as a dance hall by a publisher for his daughters, it is the sole survivor of three such venues.
Versatile Past: Over the decades, Bush Hall has served various purposes, including a soup kitchen during World War II, a bingo hall, and a rehearsal space for notable artists like The Who and Cliff Richard.
Restoration: In 2001, it was meticulously restored to its former musical glory by current owners Charlie Raworth and Emma Hutchinson.
Venue Features:
Capacity: Accommodates up to 400 guests, offering an intimate setting for performances.
Architectural Charm: Retains original Edwardian features, including ornate plasterwork and chandeliers, enhancing its unique ambiance.
Diverse Events: Hosts a wide range of events, from live music gigs and comedy shows to private parties and corporate functions.
The Eventim Apollo, located at 45 Queen Caroline Street in Hammersmith, London, is one of the city's premier live entertainment venues. Established in 1932, it has a rich history of hosting a diverse array of performances, including concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical productions.
Historical Background:
Architectural Design: Designed by architect Robert Cromie in the Art Deco style, the venue originally opened as the Gaumont Palace Cinema.
Evolution: Over the decades, it transitioned from a cinema to a renowned live performance venue, hosting legendary artists and events.
Restoration: In 2013, the Apollo underwent significant restoration to preserve its historic features while enhancing modern amenities.
Venue Features:
Capacity: The venue accommodates approximately 3,500 attendees, offering both seated and standing arrangements depending on the event.
Notable Events: It has hosted performances by iconic artists such as The Beatles, David Bowie, and more recently, contemporary acts and comedians.
Cultural Significance: The Apollo is frequently featured in television recordings and has been a central location for various cultural events in London.
Historical Significance:
The site has been the meeting place for the English Parliament since the 13th century.
Rebuilt after a fire in 1834, the current structure was designed by Charles Barry with Gothic detailing by Augustus Pugin.
Key Features:
House of Commons: The lower chamber, where elected Members of Parliament (MPs) debate and legislate.
House of Lords: The upper chamber, offering scrutiny and expertise on legislation.
Westminster Hall: The oldest part of the building, dating back to 1097, used for ceremonial occasions.
Tower Bridge, one of London's most iconic landmarks, is a combined bascule and suspension bridge that spans the River Thames near the Tower of London. Completed in 1894, it is renowned for its striking design, historical significance, and stunning views of the city.
Architecture:
Designed by Horace Jones and engineered by John Wolfe Barry, the bridge showcases a unique Victorian Gothic style.
Its two towering structures are connected by high-level walkways and house the bascule mechanism.
Bascule System:
The bridge’s bascules (movable roadways) can be raised to allow tall ships and vessels to pass beneath.
Still operational, the system is a marvel of 19th-century engineering, originally powered by steam and now driven by electricity and oil hydraulics.
Glass Walkways:
The high-level walkways now feature glass floors, offering thrilling views of the bridge lifting and the river below.
Tower Bridge Exhibition:
Visitors can explore the bridge’s history and engineering through interactive displays in the towers and engine rooms.
Exhibits include original Victorian machinery and immersive videos about the bridge's construction and operation.
Buckingham Palace, located in Westminster, London, is the official residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch. It is one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in the UK, serving as a symbol of the monarchy and British heritage.
History:
Originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House, it became a royal residence in 1761 when King George III acquired it for Queen Charlotte.
Expanded in the 19th century, it became the official residence of the British monarch in 1837 under Queen Victoria.
Architecture:
A neoclassical design, featuring a grand facade added by Sir Aston Webb in 1913.
The building includes 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms used for official ceremonies and receptions.
Changing of the Guard:
A world-famous ceremony where the King's Guard exchanges duty. It takes place outside the palace, attracting large crowds.
Royal Collection:
The palace houses a significant portion of the Royal Collection, including priceless art and historical artifacts.
The Gardens:
The palace gardens span 39 acres, featuring a lake, rose gardens, and diverse wildlife.
The Shard, located in the heart of London, is an iconic 95-story skyscraper that redefines the city’s skyline. As the tallest building in the UK and Western Europe, it stands at 310 meters (1,016 feet) tall and offers breathtaking views, world-class dining, and luxury experiences.
Architecture:
Designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, its sleek, glass-clad design tapers to a point, resembling a shard of glass.
The building is a modern masterpiece and a symbol of London’s innovation.
The View from The Shard:
A viewing platform located on the 68th, 69th, and 72nd floors provides 360-degree views of London and beyond, up to 40 miles on a clear day.
Visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of landmarks like Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, and the London Eye.
Dining and Hospitality:
Home to acclaimed restaurants and bars, such as Aqua Shard, Oblix, and Ting, offering fine dining with unparalleled views.
Features the Shangri-La Hotel, a luxury hotel spanning several floors with exclusive amenities and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Business and Residences:
Includes high-end office spaces and exclusive residential apartments.
4★ Hotel
4.4 Rating on Google Maps
Set in a long-standing school built in 1884, this posh hotel is an 9-minute walk from Hammersmith tube station and a 10-minute walk from Broadway Shopping Centre.
Polished rooms come with en suite bathrooms, sitting areas, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffeemaking facilities, as well as minibars, minifridges and free Wi-Fi. Some have fireplaces.
Breakfast is available for a fee. An elegant restaurant serves European cuisine; formal afternoon tea is available. Other amenities include a bar and a garden, plus private parking.
Address: 153 Hammersmith Road, W14 0QL, London
4★ Hotel
4.3 Rating on Google Maps
Amid shops and eateries, this relaxed hotel is a 3-minute walk from Hammersmith tube station and 6 minutes on foot from the Eventim Apollo. Charing Cross Hospital is a 13-minute walk away.
Low-key rooms offer TVs and Wi-Fi, as well as tea and coffeemaking facilities. Upgraded rooms add minifridges and air conditioning. Family rooms sleep up to 4 guests.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in a casual bar/restaurant.
Address: 229 Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AS, London
4★ Hotel
4.2 Rating on Google Maps
A 6-minute walk from the Hammersmith tube station, this straightforward hotel is also 2 miles from the Natural History Museum and 3 miles from Hyde Park.
The simply furnished rooms come with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and desks, plus tea and coffeemaking facilities. Upgraded rooms feature iPod docks and Nespresso machines. Suites add separate living areas and additional TVs. Children age 16 and under stay at no charge in a parent's room.
There's a relaxed buffet restaurant serving breakfast (fee), a modern grill-style eatery and a lobby lounge. There's also a fitness room. Meeting space is available. Pets are welcome for a fee.
Address: 1 Shortlands Hammersmith International Centre, W6 8DR, London
4★ Hotel
4.0 Rating on Google Maps
In a modern low-rise building a minute's walk from the closest bus stop, this contemporary hotel is just over a mile from Kensington Palace, a stately royal residence, and 2 miles from Hyde Park.
Chic 1- and 2-bedroom suites have sitting and dining areas, and fully equipped kitchenettes. Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Hot breakfast is provided for free. Other amenities include a game room, a gym and a coin-operated laundry. Pets are welcome (fee).
Address: Residence Inn, 181-183 Warwick Road, W14 8PU, London
4★ Hotel
3.7 Rating on Google Maps
This contemporary hotel is a 5-minute walk from Olympia exhibition centre, 3 miles from Buckingham Palace and 12 miles from Heathrow Airport.
The airy, modern rooms come with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and desks. Suites add separate living areas. Room service is available.
The property has a polished bar and an airy restaurant serving modern British cuisine. There's also a coffee shop, a fitness room and meeting space, plus a business centre and parking.
Address: 380 Kensington High Sreett, W14 8NL, London
3★ Hotel
4.3 Rating on Google Maps
Housed above a trendy gastropub, this modern boutique hotel is a 3-minute walk from Hammersmith tube station, 10 minutes from the Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith, and a mile from Westfield London shopping centre.
The hip, vintage-chic rooms feature free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, fridges and tea/coffeemaking equipment.
Complimentary English breakfast is provided. The pub also serves classic British dishes and cask ales. Other amenities include a chic basement cocktail bar.
Address: 170 Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7PB, London
3★ Hotel
4.2 Rating on Google Maps
This informal hotel with a brick facade is a 2-minute walk from Kensington tube station, 1 mile from the iconic Kensington Palace and 2 miles from the Serpentine Gallery.
Warm rooms with wood decor offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffeemaking equipment, plus minibars and safes.
Continental breakfast is offered in a simple dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows, and there's also a terrace.
Address: 7 Russell Road, W14 8JA, London
3★ Hotel
4.1 Rating on Google Maps
Themed after a Victorian lightbulb factory, this hip contemporary hotel is a minute's walk from the Lyric Hammersmith theatre, a 2-minute walk from Hammersmith tube station and 4 miles from Buckingham Palace.
Chic, contemporary rooms feature Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus loaner tablets, Nespresso machines and teamaking equipment. Some rooms have wet bars, while others can sleep up to 4 people.
Interconnecting rooms are available for families.
Breakfast is available.
Address: 28-36 Glenthorne Road, W6 0LS, London
3★ Hotel
4.1 Rating on Google Maps
Spanning 4 Victorian townhouses on a tranquil street, this chic budget hotel is a 5-minute walk from both Baron’s Court and West Kensington tube stations, and 2 miles from Victoria and Albert Museum.
Modern rooms include free Wi-Fi, en suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffeemaking equipment.
Complimentary continental breakfast is served in a streamlined dining room. Other amenities include a bar, and a courtyard patio with seating.
Address: 16-22 Gunterstone Road, W14 9BX, London
3★ Hotel
4.1 Rating on Google Maps
Set 1 mile from West Brompton tube station, this down-to-earth hotel is also 2 miles from both the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum.
The colourful rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Some rooms add sofabeds. Children 15 and under stay at no additional charge in their parents’ room.
Complimentary continental breakfast is served in a casual dining area, and there’s a relaxed bar serving snacks. Other amenities include a business centre and parking (fee).
Address: 295 North End Road, W14 9NS, London
Kensington Olympia
Overground / Tube
5min walk
West Kensington
Underground Tube
7min walk
Barons Court
Underground Tube
10min walk
Hammersmith
Underground Tube
12min walk