Knightsbridge is arguably London’s most swanky neighbourhood. Expect StashPoints full of Gucci suitcases and Armani handbags. Expect to brush shoulders with Saudi Sheikhs and Jamie Laing from Made in Chelsea. In short, expect decadence, exclusivity and immaculate surroundings from the crown jewel of SW1. This prestigious part of town attracts tourists in their droves, with plenty of upmarket fashion outlets, restaurants and bars to tickle the fancies of those looking to add a bit of glamour to their trip. Let’s see what’s on offer (not literally, obviously — Knightsbridge isn’t the place for discounts…)
Things to Do in Knightsbridge
A trip to Knightsbridge would be incomplete without exploring one of London’s most famous department stores. Harrods is famed across the globe for delighting the wealthy and the windowshoppers in equal measure since 1849. With seven floors of extravagant merchandise to peruse, as well as some scrumptious delicatessen and restaurant offerings, you could easily kill a few hours in this historic establishment. If you’re visiting around Christmas, then you’ll be able to see the lights display, showing off Harrods in all its illuminated glory. Just try to remember you’re not actually standing on the set for Love Actually…
For those of you who are brave enough and boast wallets deep enough, head down to the Bond Street area for a spot of retail therapy. Chanel, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany — it’s all here. But if you’re looking to get yourself an Armani snakeskin bag to haul your belongings around in, we should probably remind you that our insurance only stretches to £750 per bag. Sorry. Premium Insurance coming soon!
If the glitz and glamour of Knightsbridge is all a bit much, Hyde Park is only a short stroll away. The largest and best known of the London parks, you really do feel a world away from the bustle of the metropolis amidst the gorgeous greenery and the tranquility of the Serpentine, the city’s oldest boating lake.
Places to Eat in Knightsbridge
As you can imagine, Knightsbridge has really perfected the concept of fine dining. Hawksmoor serves up some of the most mouth-watering steaks in town in elegant surroundings. But that’s not all — we hear the caviar, oysters and wine list are more than a match for the meat. When in Rome.
For classic Italian fare, look no further than Sale e Pepe, an authentic, late-night trattoria serving beautiful home-cooked pasta and pizza to generations of famished Londoners.
Want something truly spectacular? Knightsbridge is home of the legendary Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, although expect waits of up to three months to reserve a table. The menu is not as exotic as one might expect (although brown bread ice cream does feature), and is probably the best opportunity you can get to indulge in some of London’s finest cuisine.
Best Pubs in Knightsbridge
The Gloucester proudly declares itself to be the only pub on Sloane Street, and offers a wide range of good cask ales and traditional British pub grub. But, of course, we are in Knightsbridge — you’re looking for glamour. Head down to the Fifth Floor Bar in Harvey Nichols for a stylish, sophisticated champagne-soaked experience, set in a lavish belle epoque interior. The Mermaid Cocktail and Oyster Bar is another extravagant option, serving that classic pairing of cocktails and shellfish to an unforgettable standard (well, maybe quite forgettable if the Moet flows a bit too freely…)
Stasher Recommendations
Knightsbridge is also a hotspot for culture vultures, and for the CityStasher team, a great location to soak up some education. Several of the capital’s best museums can be found nearby, including the V and A, Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, all of which are great fun for adults and children alike and offer a range of free collections and paid-up exhibitions. Jacob recommends going to one of the museum late night openings for a bit of after-hours culture!
Luggage Storage in Knightsbridge
Fear not readers – if you don’t have a manservant to carry your luggage around for you, then we’ve got the next best alternative. A stone’s throw from Harrods, our Knightsbridge StashPoint is open until 11pm every day and is an excellent place to drop your stuff in the heart of Knightsbridge.
If you’re more keen on swinging by the museums and delights of nearby South Kensington, we have a StashPoint you can find a short walk down the road from the tube station.