A Guide to Connaught Village

Located just minutes from Marble Arch, Connaught Village is something of a hidden gem. The area has such peaceful charm it is hard to believe you are in the centre of London. Nestled along the leafy streets is an array of independent luxury fashion and interior shops, art galleries and quirky homeware stores.

The area boasts several traditional fine-dining gastro pubs, with cozy indoor and outdoor dining options, plus an array of gourmet eateries to take you through from a breakfast spread to a sophisticated dinner.

Where to eat:

The Stablehand

This gastro pub extraordinaire offers the best in UK-sourced produce, traditional home-style cuisine along with expertly selected local wines and spirits. With the emphasis on British produce and high-quality providers, the food is consistently good - fresh and hearty.

Hero dishes include bread and butter pudding for dessert and their classic Sunday roast. With outside seating available, the Stablehand is perfect for those looking to relax on the sunny side of the street.

La Maritxu

With a coveted ‘Great Taste 2023’ award and The New York Times calling it The Basque cheesecake, La Maritxu is causing a stir in the culinary world. Started in 2021 by three sisters, this family-run business uses the traditional Basque recipe for their cheesecake. Characterised by a burnt caramelised crust and a rich creamy interior, it’s an exquisite indulgence not to be missed. You will frequently find queues outside La Maritxu, it's that good!

Kendal Street Kitchen

Kendal Street Kitchen is your go-to spot for modern Mediterranean delights, where simplicity meets the finest ingredients. The all-day menu offers freshly made pasta, authentic Napolitana pizzas, shareable small plates, and perfectly chargrilled meats and fish.

There is outdoor seating for those that want to dine alfresco and watch the world go by or just simply bask in the sunshine.

The Royal Lancaster

Open from 11am to late, the cozy Park Lounge Bar is perfect for all dining and sultry cocktail sipping. Located on the first floor of this iconic luxury hotel, the décor and views do not disappoint.

The restaurant offers a mouthwatering selection of healthy fare and light bites, including salads, poke bowls and Arabic dishes. The drinks menu, as to be expected is extensive, with all your cocktail favourites and curated international wines. They also offer a good selection of alcohol-free alternatives and soft drinks.

Buchanans Cheese Monger & Wine Rooms

Buchanans Cheese Monger & Wine Rooms is a place for cheese lovers, stocking an incredible range of British and European cheese. Need accompaniments to enjoy with the cheese? They have you covered, with small batch chutneys to carefully sourced biscuits, it's a one-stop shop for your gourmet picnic requirements.

Where to shop:

West and Hill

The owner’s eye for eclectic British and European home design is evident in their product sourcing. Shoppers are invited to explore carefully curated shelves adorned with timeless homeware as well as design classics, such as Moomin by Muurla and Jamida of Sweden.

Along with home décor treasures, there are many small items and gift ideas, such as delightful hand-painted mugs and sustainable shopping bags, along with an array of unusual handmade greeting cards.

Simon Carter

Fashionistas should visit Simon Carter for their collection of incredible patterned shirts. This shop will help you pimp up your workwear, you will find bold and colourful prints inside.

MUD Australia

Fusing minimal aesthetic and traditional porcelain techniques Mud has taken on a cult status by those looking for individual tableware. Their sunny pastel colour palette transports you to Byron Bay beaches and al fresco dining.

With an emphasis on craftsmanship and sustainable design, the brand is all about building long-term relationships with its valued customers. The ranges are meant to be future heirloom pieces, allowing customers to build up their collections with classic, consistent pieces which are designed to work together.

PM Flowers

PM Flowers provides stunning bouquets and charming wildflower arrangements. The outdoor display is a sight to see, totally Instagrammable. The perfect place to get a beautiful bouquet for that special someone in your life or to brighten up your home.

Other highlights of the village:

For art lovers drop in to contemporary galleries Casildart and Matt Carey Williams.

Walk to Bathurst Mews where you will find the horse stables for Hyde Park horse riding, book a slot and enjoy a magnificent horse ride in Hyde Park.

Wonder the streets and find as many mews as you can, they are hidden little gems, with beauty and charm.

For more information on Connaught Village visit https://connaught-village.co.uk/

Written by Claire Bloom

Photography by Nyla Sammons