Amanda's Kensal Rise flat is a perfect location for your visit to London. We visited in April over Easter and had a great time! If you have a family or small group, there is ample space for sleeping and just hanging out. The backyard area with seating was great for a glass of wine on a sunny afternoon (we went the week of Easter, and were very lucky for the sunny, 70+ degree weather, which I hear, never happens!) The place was very much like the English cottage I had pictured. The online photos capture the place perfectly....sweet and brightly decorated, big 'American' fridge, and modern updates in the bathroom. Though we were a party of five, the 1 bath worked out well. The kitchen has a big table for eating and congregating after a long day of sightseeing. Amanda has done a great job in keeping the place clean and accommodating; we couldn't ask for much more! When we arrived, the kitchen was stocked with fresh ground coffee and milk. Beautiful fresh flowers in every room were a wonderful touch.
The place is located right off Chamberlayne, with the 52 bus that will take you straight down through Notting Hill and Kensington with the end at Victoria Station. Victoria became our hub, making it really easy for us to navigate the city. Just taking that 52 line will bring you past some terrific stores, restaurants and pubs including the Churchill Arms. It will swing by a big Sainsbury's supermarket if you want to stock up on groceries, though the local Tescos have fresh takeaway meals (fresh, refrigerated gourmet pizzas were tasty, not at all like your frozen Gino's) and open late. It will also take you to the Notting Hill Gate subway station if you need to venture across town on a different line. Also, steps from our place was the Kensal Rise train station where you can purchase an Oyster Card for public transit. Amanda also recommended some neighborhood eateries, some of which we tried including Minkie's (good coffee and pastries) and the Chamberlayne (classic pub, always busy!). We liked Arthur's a lot....an old timey local cafe with classic English breakfast with eggs, sausage, ham, beans, toast and tea for less than $7. We ventured a little further down the street to Paradise a restaurant/pub/club that was interesting; lots of handsome and friendly doormen on Friday night! Cute 'library' room if you want a quieter place to sit and have a drink. The flat is also walking distance to Queen's Park, a beautiful family spot with a playground and petting zoo. Check out the shops on the other side too.
For a family of 4-5, I would definitely stay at this cute Kensal Rise flat again. Just be aware, this is not a hotel with all the conveniences. If you are wanting a place where you can live like the locals in a well located, comfortable and charming home, this is an excellent choice. Thank you, Amanda!