Kensington Bars

Like other villages along main roads out of London, Kensington and surrounding areas have always been home to hostelries and drinking houses for the pleasure seeker as well as the tired and weary traveler. English naval administrator and Member of Parliament Samuel Pepys records in his diaries of the 1660's of several expeditions to Kensington and his experiences of 'boozy and pleasant evenings' in one or more of the taverns there. Today, Kensington offers a vast and varied array of cocktail, lounge and wine bars and so still providing a diverse and eclectic mix of enjoyment, entertainment and fun.

Bertie's Bar - 2-24 High Street

This Victorian-style bar overlooks the lobby in the Royal Garden Hotel and is so named in honour of Queen Victoria's son Edward VII who was always known as Bertie. A clear glass wall runs along the full length of the bar providing valuable privacy between the bar and the foyer of the hotel. A £500,000 refurbishment project has transformed Bertie's into an elegant and stylish venue with newly-created areas each exuding its own atmosphere whether it be discreet and intimate or lively and social. The splendid white marble topped bar, finished with leather and textured glass panels carries an extensive drinks range that includes 10 different types of wine by the glass, 12 speciality beers and a selection of over 15 malt whiskies. There is a good range of bar snacks which include Caribbean jerk chicken winglets and mini sausage and mustard mash. Guests are guaranteed a warm and hospitable welcome along with an excellent service of quality and discretion. The bar is open from 5pm to 11pm Monday to Saturday. A 2am extension is allowed for guests of the hotel.

The Archangel - 11-13 High Street

With its relaxed, moody atmosphere this stylish bar and nightclub is spread over three floors. With the ability to accommodate 250 people, the nightclub, which has a 2am license is located in the basement, the bar and seating area is on the ground floor and the conservatory and cocktail bar can be accessed by a flight of stairs at the far end of the bar. The decor emanates a romantic and individualistic bohemian style with the unique use of mirrors, paintings, rugs and chandeliers. Its deep red walls and candles enhance and intensify the relaxed, warm ambience. Highly recommended is Archangel, the bar's signature cocktail concocted of strawberries, basil, cracked black pepper, rum, peach liqueur, pineapple juice and cachucha and topped with a whole strawberry wrapped in mint. Another favourite is Black Apple Mule, a tempting mix of apple vodka, blackberry puree, fresh lime, ginger puree and ginger beer. As well as a profusion of classic and contemporary cocktails there is also a vast drinks menu that boasts a wide and diverse selection of champagnes, rums, gins, tequilas and scotch malts. Bottled beers are also available.

Stables Bar - 1 Kensington Court

Located in the Milestone Hotel, the Stables Bar, so named after its original use as a carriage house, is an intimate venue where friends can meet, relax and unwind over a drink or two. The bar comprises of a small, split-level wood-panelled area with large comfortable leather armchairs and sofas. As well as walls adorned with horse and jockey prints there are large glass display cabinets containing all manner of paraphernalia concerning the Sport of Kings. Resident barman Marco Ercolano won first prize in the Annual Galvin Cup competition this year with his version of a classic Champagne Cocktail using Piper Heidsieckf champagne, followed by a freestyle Creative Cocktail using Rémy Martin VSOP. As well as expertly mixed martinis the bar boasts a huge choice of cigars, wines and spirits accompanied by a satisfying range of savoury nibbles. The atmosphere of the Stables Bar is one that is laid-back and un-hurried and one of the very few places where the smoking of cigars is actively encouraged. Open daily from 7am to 11pm it is the perfect place to just chill and relax.