What's On in Kensington

A major exhibition exploring the design evolution of one of the world’s most famous dolls: Barbie®. Journey into the Barbie universe and discover over 250 remarkable objects, with rare, unique and innovative dolls dating from 1959 to the present day.
Thank you to the Design Museum for use of the image: 1959 Barbie No. 1 © Mattel, Inc.

Step into the home of Princess Victoria and experience the magical atmosphere of a Regency Christmas, brought back to life at Kensington Palace.

This sparkling festive season, Opportunity Kensington have teamed up with The Queen’s Reading Room to highlight the power of reading to connect with others and boost mental health, creating a giant book
installation. Set beside the flower stand at St Mary Abbots Church, on the corner where Kensington High Street and Kensington Church Street meet, this eyecatching tower of books helps highlight the work of The Queen’s Reading Room. It is also a drop off point to donate books, both old and new, benefitting the Friends of Chelsea and Westminster
Hospital library, which operates a library and book trolley service for the hospital’s patients and staff.
Other drop off points in Kensington are Kensington Quarter, Waterstones, Kensington Central Library, Holiday Inn, Japan House
London, Petit Bateau, Whole Foods Market, Pomegranate and Kensington Palace.

A hands-on workshop at Cass Art in Kensington where you’ll learn the basics of marbling to add unique, swirling patterns to baubles, ornaments, tags, and more. No prior experience needed. Event for over 18s.

Join the holiday magic at VICKISARGE: Uncover Christmas clues and sparkling jewels as bright as the season!
Find clues in store and win a prize.
Free treats and prosecco for parents.
Suitable for ages 4-12
Booking advised

Join Opera Holland Park at St Mary Abbots Church on Kensington Church Street to mark the beginning of the festive period for this Christmas celebration filled with carols, seasonal music and good cheer. All tickets include a festive post-show drink.

Join us on Sunday 8th December, from 10:30am to 12:30pm at the Farmers' Market on Phillimore Walk, High Street Kensington, W8 7RX. Santa and his elves will be there spreading festive cheer and handing out treat bags for the little ones.

Come and visit 'Santa’s Library'!
Following a special festive Rhyme Time (starting at 10:30am), you'll have a chance to visit Santa's Grotto and meet Santa, tell him all about your favourite books to read at Christmas, and take some photos as a memento.
Each child will receive a gift bag from the Library, as a small thank you from the team.
Online bookings are limited, but tickets can be bought in person at the library, on the day!

Join Japan House in the Shop on 12th December for an exclusive evening of festive shopping and seasonal activities. Visitors will have the chance to sample a range of Japanese tea and treats, get to know the character of Japanese whisky and sake through a mini masterclass and tastings, explore a sustainable approach to gift wrapping with furoshiki, and more.
Browse the carefully curated product range, including a selection of hand-picked Christmas gift boxes, and receive a discount of 15% on any purchase made in-store or online during the event.

Join this walking tour to uncover the rich history of Kensington Gardens, a green oasis in the heart of London. Explore hidden stories behind iconic statues like Peter Pan and a sculpture rejected by Trafalgar Square, step behind the railings of the Albert Memorial for a close-up of its stunning Frieze of Parnassus.
For over 18s only.

Start your Christmas shopping at the Farmers' Market on Phillimore Walk. Stock up on fresh, seasonal essentials—from fish and game to fruit, vegetables, baked goods, gifts, drinks, sweet treats and more—perfect for your festive feast.

Join the Purcell Players and St Mary Abbots Professional choir for Handel's Messiah by candlelight at St Mary Abbots Church Kensington

Enjoy a free 30-minute Piano Recital at the Lecture Theatre at Kensington Central Library with acclaimed concert pianist Rebecca J. Carda Leigh. Featuring the music of Bach, Einaudi, Chopin, Mozart, and a few holiday favourites. Walk-ins welcome!