The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is absolutely full of cherry blossoms and magnolia blooms in the Spring. In fact, there are so many great spots I've had to split it into two posts! Read on for tips on where to find some stunning spots in the bougie postcode of Kensington.
The exact timing of when the trees bloom will depend on how warm winter has been, but generally expect magnolia in mid to late-March and cherry blossoms from mid-March to April.
Quick guide:
Argyll Road
Phillimore Gardens
Eldon Road
Bolton Gardens
The Little Boltons
The Boltons
Argyll Road and Phillimore Gardens
There are a couple of magnolias on Argyll Road, but the one at the north end is the biggest and most impressive (photo 2 in the post below). Just around the corner from Argyll Road is Phillimore Gardens with two magnolia trees worth visiting. If you're in the area, you are legally required to grab a drink from Knoops, which sells 'expertly crafted chocolate drinks.' With everything from 28% white up to 100% dark – there is a % for all tastes.
Eldon Road
There is a massive magnolia tree that overhangs the pavement on Eldon Road, see the first snap on the instagram post above ^.
Bolton Gardens
I stumbled across these three trees when they were perfectly backlit so that they were practically glowing. These are actually callery pear trees, not cherry blossoms. Though their fruit aren't fit for human consumption, their beautiful spring blossoms and bright autumnal colours make them popular ornamental trees.
The Little Boltons
Redcliffe Square Gardens is a great place to have a rest and right behind the park is this large tree on The Little Boltons.
The Boltons
The Boltons is an elliptical set of streets (two crescents) with St Mary The Boltons church and gardens located at the centre. This area even has its own Wikipedia page and has been home to some famous residents, including Madonna, Jenny Lind (the Swedish opera singer in The Greatest Showman) and W.S. Gilbert (of Gilbert and Sullivan fame)! The east side of the street has some seriously impressive magnolia, cherry blossom and camellia combinations.
Please tag me (@audsbitsnbobs) if you use this guide, I'd love to see your pictures!
Happy wandering!
The yellow flower icons indicate daffodil locations. For a full breakdown of all the icons, check out my first blog on The Best Spots for Blossoms, Blooms and Beverages in and Around London.