London is the perfect combination of modern and historic architecture. On top of that, London tourists really appreciate the mews streets, which are located throughout the capital. A great mixture of stunning terraces, busy high streets and narrow cobbled lanes, it is like a blast from the past.
Once a massive part of the Industrial Revolution for the horses and carts, these photogenic streets are now a massive part of Instagram, offering the perfect backdrop for a photo. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic London mews streets and how they are such an iconic part of London.
The Beginning of the Mews
The word mews dates all the way back to the 18th century, when the mews sat behind large townhouses and opulent neighbourhoods. In these streets, horses would be in stables as the grooms and coachmen would live upstairs. These streets soon changed when we no longer needed horse and carriage and made the switch to cars. However, the mews remained part of London’s fabric, evolving into workshops, artist studios, and ultimately some of the city’s most desirable homes.
Although London’s mews are used to this extent, they are still an iconic part of the UK, with historic cobblestones and very low architecture with a hint of charm. They are iconic parts of London that everybody has to see once in a while.
Notting Hill
Notting Hill is one of the most iconic parts of London, with thousands of visitors all year round. On top of this, it is one of the most Instagrammable spots with its famous multicoloured houses. This is one of the busier parts of London, but with just a short walk around the corner, Colville Mews is the quieter counterpart to Notting Hill. Here you will see converted studios, and it is also home to creative agencies and boutiques.
Kensington & Chelsea
Up next is Kensington & Chelsea, another luxurious part of London and one of the most recognised. That being said, if you are looking for the mews in this area, then there is no better spot than the Kynance Mews. Here, you can see ivy-draped archways which change their colour to the season, with stunning bright green to a fiery and burgundy red during Autumn.
Just around the corner, you also have Holland Park Mews which is very glamorous with its iron balconies and pastel façades, taking you back in time to the Georgian and Regency eras.
Now for those who are looking for a much quieter spot, Egerton Mews is close to the V&A museum, offering the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Marylebone & Paddington
Up next is the wonderful Marylebone & Paddington, which is another fantastic spot in London. First, you must visit Bathurst Mews, which is very local to Lancaster Gate, which is very notable. Furthermore, it is actually home to one of the few horse stables which is still in use in London. It almost feels like you are taking a step back in time, which, in all fairness, is what most of the mews feel like in central London, except that with Bathurst Mews, it almost feels like you are in the set of a Peaky Blinders episode.
Another great spot is Chiltern Mews is another fantastic spot which is located behind fantastic cafes, restaurants and even boutique shops. This is why it is such a good spot for brunch, because there are so many places to eat outside with a fantastic view of the streets. Leave your vehicle at one of the car parks in London and explore the many mews that are located in the area.
