Emily Goad is a mom of 2 and host at The Queen’s Park Residence in London. Here she tells us the best places to go and things to do in one of the most exclusive and family-friendly NW London neighborhoods: Queen’s Park.
Where to go in Queen’s Park
Queen’s Park – The leafy green oasis of Queens Park is fantastic for all ages to enjoy. With tennis courts, a petting zoo, playground (with sand pit) and the most heavenly little pitch-and-put golf course, as well as a little café with great coffee and pastries, there is something for everyone in this wonderful spot. The park is flanked on either side by popular Chamberlayne and Salusbury roads which are heaving with great places to eat and shop.
Swanky Nails – Hands down the best in the area for nails, brows, waxing and facials. It’s a lovely salon with fabulous beauticians, nail technicians and a great non-toxic varnishes.
Farmer’s Market – The weekly Sunday Market in Queen’s Park has a wonderful array of stalls selling fruit and vegetables from predominantly organic UK farms, as well as wonderful ready-made foods, cheeses and a pizza van which keeps hungry kids happy.
The Best Stores in Queen’s Park
Rise and Vine – A wonderful local wine shop with the most helpful staff and a great selection of wines from around the world. They have great organic wines too and knowledgeable staff.
Brooks – An independent butcher/deli offering everything from fresh bread, fruit and veg and pantry essentials, as well as high quality carefully-sourced meat.
Scarlet & Violet – The most beloved florist in West London who make up incredible seasonal bouquets and also have pre-made ‘jam jars’ of stunning flowers ready to take away.
Planet organic – Really led the way on organic produce in West London and continues to be a great source of wholesome food and ingredients.
Where to Eat in Queen’s Park
Queen’s Park is a great foodie destination with a wealth of cafes and restaurants for going out and brilliant delis, butchers and grocery stores for planning nights in.
Birria Taco – A family favourite for delicious take away tacos.
Sacro Cuore – For scrumptious sourdough pizzas to be enjoyed there or to take out.
Pizza Pilgrims – A great place to go with the family and they even have a pizza masterclass for younger kids which is great fun.
Carmel – A terrific neighbourhood restaurant specialising in Eastern Mediterranean food, set in a little muse just off Lonsdale Road. The flatbreads are amazing and the Charred Hispi Cabbage and Lamb Shank Shawarma are family favourites.
Milk Beach – A great brunch spot with the kids – it’s a modern Australian menu with a great selection of morning smoothies, pastries and eggs any which way!
The Whippet Inn – For a vibrant Sunday lunch: the chicken burger is a must.
Cable & Co – A small but much loved cafe which serves fantastic coffee and pastries.
In and Around Queen’s Park
Queen’s Park has a super quick line into the heart of the city for all the main theatres and the West End (15 minutes to Marylebone or 20 minutes to Piccadilly Circus on the Bakerloo Line), but there’s also plenty in and around the NW London area.
Love Supreme Projects is a go-to for anyone in search of a moment of balance and calm during their stay. Formerly a church, then the HQ for Stella McCartney and now a yoga studio, the space is light and airy and the teaching is incredibly inspiring. They have 7am classes most days which set you up perfectly for a day with the kids ahead!
Layla’s is an incredible neighbourhood bakery renowned for their cinnamon loaves which my kids devour at any opportunity. Our favourite is their sourdough bread and banana bread with tahini.
Stracker’s on Goldborne road is one for the foodies – the first from chef Thomas Stracker who is fast becoming a tiktok super star. It’s always bustling, has great music and a really innovative menu that always delivers.
Soutine in St John’s Wood is a great French bistrot where you can enjoy chicken schnitzels, onion soup and steak tartare, with wonderful service and a more ‘grown up’ vibe. It’s so French they even allow dogs.
Portobello Market – in Notting Hill is a short bus ride away, where you can browse all the famous antique stalls.
Where to stay in Queen’s Park
Emily’s home, The Queen’s Park Residence, is located in one of the most desirable neighborhood spots, just down the street from the park itself and close to all the buzzing shopping streets. With spectacular interiors and a beautiful south-facing garden, it’s the perfect home-from-home for a stay in the capital.
Other areas to explore in this part of London include neighboring Kensal Green, Notting Hill and Maida Vale. Browse all our family-friendly vacation rentals in London here.
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/queen-s-park/the-queens-park-residence
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/queen-s-park/the-mostyn-gardens-residence
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/queen-s-park/the-wrentham-avenue-residence
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/kensal-green/the-all-souls-residence
