Connaught Village is one of central London’s most charming hidden corners. Tucked between Edgware Road and Hyde Park, it’s a peaceful enclave brimming with independent eateries, galleries and boutiques. I was genuinely struck by how warm and welcoming it felt. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, browse beautiful shops, and enjoy excellent food and coffee without the usual crowds. From Basque cheesecake to botanical skincare, bold art to artisan cheese, here are ten of my favourite reasons to visit Connaught Village.
Please note this list isn’t written in a ranked order:
1. Start your day at Boxcar
2. Savour Basque cheesecake at La Maritxu
3. Admire art at the Dorothy Circus Gallery
4. Browse beautiful homewares at Faeger
5. Shop botanical skincare at C.Atherley
6. Select gorgeous gifts at West & Hill
7. Pick up wine and cheese at Buchanans
8. Pause for a pint at The Duke of Kendal
9. Go wedding dress shopping
10. Take a photo with Paddington Bear
My Favourite Ten Reasons To Visit Connaught Village
1. Start your day at Boxcar. This relaxed neighbourhood café and wine bar serves brunch until 3 pm, featuring dishes such as scrambled eggs and wild mushrooms on toast, topped with pecorino. Their coffee and pastries are spot on, and it’s just as good for a quick caffeine stop as it is for a long, lazy brunch. Come evening, they transition into a wine bar. Boxcar has plenty of pavement seating and is also dog-friendly. You’ll find them at 30 Kendal Street, London W2 2AW.
2. Savour Basque cheesecake at La Maritxu. Specialising in authentic Basque cheesecake with a burnt caramelised top and a rich, creamy centre, this adorable little shop makes each cheesecake using a cherished family recipe. I tried a slice and genuinely loved every bite. Head to 12 Connaught Street, London W2 2AF.
3. Admire art at the Dorothy Circus Gallery. This striking contemporary gallery is known for its surrealist and pop-inspired works by international artists. I was particularly drawn to a piece by Brazilian artist Flavia Itiberê and ended up buying it. If you collect bold, statement art, this is a gorgeous gallery to explore. Discover them at 35 Connaught Street, London W2 2AZ.
4. Browse beautiful homewares at Faeger. Founded by an interior designer, this serene boutique is filled with rustic textures and a countryside-inspired charm. Think of handmade ceramics, cosy textiles, seasonal collections and antiques from Desired Effect, all curated with care. You’ll find it at 14 Porchester Place, London W2 2BS.
5. Shop botanical skincare at C.Atherley. Inspired by English gardens and founded by Cath Kidston, this elegant store offers luxurious hand creams, soaps, and home fragrances made using natural essential oils from her greenhouse-grown geraniums. It’s a brand with a charming backstory and truly special products. Make your way to 3 Porchester Place, London W2 2BS.
6. Select gorgeous gifts at West & Hill. This is one of those little shops that makes you want to pick up everything. They stock a thoughtful edit of home accessories, stationery, textiles, candles and design-led bits from British and European brands. I treated myself to a Jamida of Sweden ‘Love’ tray. You can pop in at 26 Connaught Street, London W2 2AF.
7. Pick up wine and cheese at Buchanans. This artisan cheesemonger offers a carefully curated selection of British and European cheeses aged on-site alongside a range of wines and accompaniments. It is the kind of place that makes you want to host a wine and cheese night. Drop by 5A Porchester Place, London W2 2BS.
8. Pause for a pint at The Duke of Kendal. A traditional London pub with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, featuring occasional live piano performances in the evenings. It’s great for a casual pint or a classic pub dinner, such as fish and chips, a chicken burger, or a pizza. You’ll find it at 38 Connaught Street, London W2 2AF.
9. Go wedding dress shopping. Connaught Village is home to a selection of designer bridal boutiques, including Bridal Rogue Gallery, The Atelier, Love Story London, and Eliza Jane Howell. Whether you’re after timeless elegance or modern flair, you’ll find couture gowns and expert styling advice to suit your taste. The quiet charm of the village makes it a relaxed spot to browse, try on dresses and make a day of it.
10. Take a photo with Paddington Bear. Mid-marmalade sandwich, this bronze bench statue of Paddington is as charming as you’d expect, adding a playful touch to the street. You can spot him sitting outside 28 Connaught Street, London W2.
Helpful Information About Connaught Village
There’s plenty more to explore in Connaught Village, including men’s fashion at Simon Carter, independent women’s wear stores, interior shops and more art galleries. Kendal Street Kitchen and Assal Patisserie are also worth a stop.
Connaught Square also features a private communal garden, accessible only to residents of the surrounding homes. The Garden is cared for by the property owners, each of whom holds a key to the property. The square is entirely residential, framed by elegant four-storey terraced houses and named after the Earl of Connaught.
Connaught Village may be just minutes from Marble Arch, but it feels worlds away from the bustle. Set within the Hyde Park Estate and bordered by Edgware Road and Hyde Park, it offers a rare mix of central London convenience and village charm. With Mayfair, Marylebone and Paddington close by, and Marble Arch, Edgware Road and Paddington stations all within walking distance, it’s easy to reach and worth taking the time to explore. Find out more at the Connaught Village website.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. To avoid disappointment, please verify that the places I referenced in this article are still in operation before visiting.