Our ongoing series, TOAST Guides, highlights unique haunts across the UK, from farm-to-table eateries to scenic walking routes. For the latest instalment, we explore the best dining, shopping and cultural destinations in and around Chelsea, west London.
Lined with restaurants and boutiques, the historically rich King’s Road stretches from one end of Chelsea to the other. But among the well-heeled locales, a small but mighty independent scene rounds out the borough’s identity. Perched on incidental corners and tucked discreetly down side streets, this community of celebrated art spaces and organic bistros awaits. Here, we bring you a selection worth adding to your itinerary.
John Sandoe Books
Filled with thousands of titles, this wonderfully busy bookshop has occupied its three-story location since 1957. From 19th-century classics to quarterly catalogues, signed fiction to new paperbacks, this beloved destination holds over 30,000 books, catering to every literary taste imaginable.
10 Blacklands Terrace, London SW3 2SR
Chelsea Physic Garden
This botanic garden spans four acres of land on the banks of the River Thames, founded in 1673 by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries. Its purpose then was to grow flora for medicinal use, but today, the site exists as a place to share plant knowledge and provide a botanical refuge amid the hustle and bustle.
66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HS
Colbert
While Colbert sits on an iconic corner of Sloane Square, the eatery takes its cues from the informal pavement cafés that characterise Paris. Make a reservation to enjoy elevated French cuisine in an intimate art nouveau-inspired setting. The menu is filled with signature dishes, handcrafted pastries and an extensive list of regional wines to accompany your meal.
50-52 Sloane Square, London SW1W 8AX
Chelsea Farmer's Market
Every Saturday between May and October, the Chelsea Farmer’s Market brings together a collection of vendors selling baked goods, fruit and vegetables, herbs and handmade crafts, as well as hot lunch dishes from a mix of countries. You could easily spend a leisurely afternoon making your way from stall to stall, sampling the various gastronomical offerings.
125 Sydney Street, London SW3 6NR
Saatchi Gallery
Opened by Charles Saatchi in 1985 and now registered as a charity, this contemporary gallery champions emerging artists through dynamic seasonal showcases. Beyond the grand collonaded entrance, discover works by British and international names including Andy Warhol, Eva Hesse and Georg Baselitz.
Duke of York's Headquarters, King's Road, London SW3 4RY
Chicama
Traditional Peruvian seafood is given a contemporary spin at this low-lit Chelsea restaurant. The flavours are bold and the environment is spirited; a tasteful mix of coastal charm and industrial details. Chicama’s menu is seasonal, tailored around the fresh fish that is delivered daily and cooked over charcoal.
383 King's Road, London SW10 0LP
Design Centre
Leading the charge on carving out space for creativity in the capital, the Design Centre is home to more than 600 decorative brands across over 130 showrooms. Spend an afternoon perusing the curated spaces and walk away with a wealth of interiors inspiration – but not before stopping for a bite to eat at the Design Restaurant.
Lots Road, London SW10 0XE
Royal Court Theatre
In its 60-year history, the Royal Court Theatre has supported hundreds of undiscovered playwrights, nurturing their voices and providing a platform to cultivate their talent. The theatre continues to stage plays by writers past and present, inspiring audiences with thought-provoking performances and inviting them to attend workshops, readings and writing groups.
50-51 Sloane Square, London SW1W 8AS
The Thomas Cubbit
This Belgravia bar and dining room is reminiscent of a country home, housed inside a Georgian building with oak floors and original marble fireplaces. The venue is named after a notable tradesman who developed many infamous Chelsea squares. Working with local artisans, winemakers, farmers and suppliers, The Thomas Cubbitt presents a fresh yet familiar menu of updated British classics.
44 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9PA
Cheyne Walk
A scenic stretch which many artists, musicians and writers have called home, Cheyne Walk is studded with teal plaques in memory of its former residents. Amble down the leafy pathway with a view of elegant 18th-century architecture on one side and the River Thames on the other.
Cheyne Walk, London SW3 5HN
TOAST
Our Chelsea shop is located on King’s Road, surrounded by some of the neighbourhood’s finest venues. Expect a hand-picked edit of new season menswear, womenswear and handcrafted home goods, along with a friendly team to welcome you.
205 King's Road, London SW3 5ED
Words by Bébhinn Campbell.
Image 1, 6 and 7: Courtesy of The Thomas Cubitt.
Image 2: Chelsea Physic Garden, photography by Laura Stoner New.
Image 3: Chelsea Physic Garden, photography by Mark Bothwell.
Image 4: Colbert, photography by David Loftus.
Image 5: Courtesy of Saatchi Gallery.
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