The Kensington’s Head Concierge on London’s Hotspots
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Walk among Kensington’s tree-lined avenues and garden squares and you might almost get a whiff of its regal legacy. Located in the Royal Borough of the neighborhood, Kensington Palace has been the home of the monarchy since 1689. Today, a stay in this elitThe Kensington’s Head Concierge on London’s Hotspots
Walk among Kensington’s tree-lined avenues and garden squares and you might almost get a whiff of its regal legacy. Located in the Royal Borough of the neighborhood, Kensington Palace has been the home of the monarchy since 1689. Today, a stay in this elite district is coveted not only due to its royal heritage but also for its wonderful museums and weekly farmer’s market.Comprising four traditional white Victorian townhouses, The Kensington is more reminiscent of a distinguished private residence than a conventional hotel. Period architecture, rich hues of violet and indigo and Kensington blue Pashley vintage bikes for exploring the city make this hotel a top choice for guests traveling to London. Head Concierge Vincent Peach has been with the hotel for nearly seven years, after an earlier stint with Park Lane Hotel on Piccadilly. “I love the interaction I have with our guests, and the satisfaction of a job well done when the guest is happy. I think I have the best job in the world!” he says.Vincent Peach recently took time out of his busy schedule to tell Blouin ArtInfo about some of the best places to eat, stay at, and visit in London. Edited excerpts:What are your recommendations for must-visit places in London and why?I think that one of London’s gems is the Wallace Collection. Bequeathed to the British nation in 1897 by Lady Wallace, the Wallace Collection is an art collection in London open to the public. It’s a world-famous range of fine and decorative arts from the 15th to the 19th century.What restaurants, bars, and cafes would you recommend in London and why?I always like to recommend our local restaurants. We have a great Indian fine dining restaurant close by in the Bombay Brasserie. For a succulent steak, I’d recommend the Gaucho Grill in Chelsea and Bumpkin for traditional fish and chips.Where would you go and what would you do if you had a free morning or afternoon in London?I’d go horse riding in Hyde Park and Rotten Row. I get an amazing feeling riding in the capital city and seeing the famous landmarks.Where would you head to in London for the best shopping and what would you buy?We have the world’s most famous store a short walk from us, Harrods. It’s a must-visit when you come to London.Where would you recommend people stay (hotels, B&Bs) when they visit London?The Kensington of course, or one of our other Doyle Collection properties, The Marylebone or The Bloomsbury.What are the best places to see art in London?London has some of the finest art galleries in the world — from contemporary art galleries like the Tate Modern and the Barbican Art Gallery to the classics in The National Gallery.What are some of London’s best secret places that everyone should discover?Chelsea Physic Garden is a celebration of the beauty and importance of plants within a walled garden. It’s a peaceful green oasis in a bustling city.What are the best places to see live bands or musicians in London and why?I think The Royal Albert Hall is the classiest music venue for everything from The Proms to Eric Clapton. Alternatively, The Roundhouse is a legendary rock venue.What are the best spots for experiencing London’s nightlife after spending the day at an art fair?Head to Ronnie Scott’s for live jazz. It’s an iconic venue for some of the best jazz around.What projects are you currently working on/involved in?Our ongoing project is to constantly improve our guest’s experience by training and motivating our teams to give their maximum.Click on the slideshow for glimpses of London Read more