My guide to Notting Hill

beyond being beautiful and collectable, I think of each handmade ring, bangle or necklace as a connection to earth and humanity

STORIES ·
Craft | Food | Mindful Living

As much as I love to travel abroad and discover new places, there’s something lovely about exploring London on a sunny day during the quieter summer season. Notting Hill has long been one of my favourite neighbourhoods and I remember fondly the day we opened Daylesford’s Westbourne Grove farmshop in 2008. Hidden amongst the markets and coloured houses are a treasure trove of independent shops where I source everything from vintage clothes and antiques to art, jewellery and fabrics. Here are some of the places I return to the most – as curated for Marfa Stance.

Rellik, 8 Golbourne Road

My style is eclectic and I think Rellik’s curation of second-hand designer pieces is among the best in London. I love that you never know what you might find – most recently for me, the most beautiful vintage Ossie Clarke dress. 

Dorian, 107 Talbot Road

My husband and I enjoyed a wonderful evening here with friends recently. Max Coen is a very talented young chef and it was a privilege to see him run this high-speed open kitchen with such quiet confidence. I think it’s the best steak I’ve had in London. 

Pippa Small, 201 Westbourne Grove 

Pippa has spent the last 20 years travelling the world to work with communities in remote, often war-torn countries, creating special pieces of jewellery that provide them with a safe and sustainable means of employment. Beyond being beautiful and collectable, I think of each handmade ring, bangle or necklace as a connection to earth and humanity.

hidden amongst the markets and coloured houses are a treasure trove of independent shops where I source everything from vintage clothes and antiques to art, jewellery and fabrics

Katharine Pole, showroom by appointment

Katharine is one of the most knowledgeable antique textile dealers in the UK, with an unrivalled collection of rare European fabrics. It has been a joy to work together on a number of special projects over the years, from interiors at home to those in my Cotswold pubs and inspiration for Bamford’s womenswear collections. It was a delight to interview her last year, so please do click here to read more about her work.

Sally Clarke, 124 Kensington Church Street

I have long admired Sally’s loving, simple and seasonal approach to food – and it is amazing to think that her restaurant will celebrate its 40th anniversary later this year. You can’t beat her classic chicken, mushroom and leek pie for a quick and delicious supper. 

Michael Hoppen Gallery, 10 Portland Road

I will never tire of browsing his collection of Sarah Moon photographs – a beautiful yet abstract vignette into fashion and style during the 70’s.