With lockdown easing, many of us are planning to make the most of the summer in the UK. But what exactly are we allowed to do over the summer holidays? More than you might think.
To complement your stay with us at The Harrington, here’s our roundup of things that are open in and around South Kensington featuring eateries, pubs, spas, entertainment and more.
Eating out
For the month of August, the Government will launch their ‘eat out to help out‘ discount. In a bid to encourage customers to eat in, the scheme will give people across the UK a 50% discount, capped at £10 per person, on meals out (excluding alcohol). The discount will be available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays (all day).
Which restaurants, cafés and pubs are taking part?
Some big names have already confirmed that they will be participating, including All Bar One, Burger King, Carluccio’s, Harvester, Nando’s, Pizza Hut, Toby Carvery and Wetherspoons. The Government have launched a finder tool on the Gov.uk website – this will allow you to search for participating venues within a two-mile radius of your chosen postcode.
Highly recommended restaurants and pubs in South Kensington
The Wright Brothers. Please note that their South Kensington restaurant is temporarily closed. However, you can still pick up some delicious seafood bites at their branches in Borough Market & Battersea.
Hollywood Arms. Just a short walk from the iconic King’s Road, a visit to this spot is the best excuse to enjoy the buzzing Hollywood Road. It’s advised that you book ahead of your visit while they offer a reduced contact experience.
The Anglesea Arms. The garden terrace of The Anglesea Arms heaves with drinkers in the summertime while the pub’s restaurant feeds diners a mix of stalwart classic and ever-changing seasonal dishes. For the time being, they request that guests make a booking before visiting.
Click here for a full list of the top restaurants in and around South Kensington.
Beauty parlours & spas
Those of us who have been sorely missing services from haircuts and facials to massages – have been waiting patiently for months now, eager to know when we can book back in (we don’t blame you).
South Kensington’s parlours are now in fact, open! When our guests come to us seeking R&R, we always recommend the following…
Urban Retreat. This spa is now open, resuming their beauty services with COVID-19 guidelines. Their opening hours are 10 am – 7 pm Tuesday to Saturday.
Quan Spa. The perfect place for a little bit of “me” time. You will be required to wear a face mask when entering the spa – or they can provide you with one for an additional cost of £0.50p.
Santi Spa. Has only recently reopened with their fully operational spa and skin lab.
Click here for a full list of spas in and around South Kensington.
Gyms
Despite a cautious return, indoor gyms, swimming pools and other indoor sports facilities have finally reopened their doors.
While we currently renovate our in-house wellness facilities, we recommend our guests use the gym at Equinox, David Lloyd and PureGym South Kensington. Please note that the Virgin Active Chelsea branch remains closed, however, we will keep you updated with the latest information.
We understand that our guests may not be ready to fully transition back to gyms. If you prefer pilates and yoga classes, our neighbours at Triyoga, Pilates Squared and Evolve Wellness will be happy to assist. Please check our their websites for timetables and information.
Entertainment
No jaunt to London is complete without visiting seeing the sights, or the nooks and crannies that make South West London a haven away from the madness of the inner city.
Shopping. London’s iconic shopping venues are open, so you can enjoy Selfridges, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and the High Street with ease.
Markets. For guests who still aren’t comfortable dining in, we advise a trip to the capitals best markets. South Kensington Farmers’ Markets takes place in Bute Street, one of Kensington’s premier foodie destinations and has been a hit with locals on Saturdays when the street is closed to traffic. Alternatively, you can’t go wrong by visiting Borough Market which has been serving the people of Southwark for 1,000 years.
Parks. Perfect to explore on your summer staycation, for a picnic or afternoon stroll. The closest to the Harrington are Hyde Park, Kensington Palace Gardens, St James’s Park and Chelsea Physic Garden.
Museums. Some museums have been open since July 4, however, it is now required for most that you book your visit timeslot in advance. Please note that The Science Museum (only a 10-min walk from us) will be reopening August 19.
Music venues. These remain closed for the time being. The Royal Albert Hall (a stand out venue to our area) is closed but remains open through the Royal Albert Home – a concert experience taking place from home. Welcome to the virtual world!
Theatres. Theatres will be allowed to reopen from August, but on a trial basis with limited capacities. Outdoor theatres, opera, dance and music were allowed to reopen from July 11 so long as they take place with a limited audience.
Cinemas. Although Curzon Mayfair has been open since July, Electric Cinema and Cine Lumiere are ready to reopen August 26 with the appropriate safety measures in place. Check out their websites to see what they are doing!
Click here for the best entertainment in and around South Kensington.
Stay up to date with Coronavirus updates:
- For health information and advice please follow the NHS.
- Learn about the government response to coronavirus on GOV.UK.
- Keep up with the latest on BBC News.