Kensington's museums and architecture
From South Kensington tube cross Thurloe Street and Cromwell Road and turn left into Exhibition Road. Cross the road at the traffic lights. On the right-hand corner is the Victoria and Albert Museum. On the opposite side of the road sits the splendid Natural History Museum. The walk continues along Exhibition Road past the Science Museum, on the left, followed by Imperial College (for science, technology and medicine). The Victoria and Albert Museum is regarded as one of the world’s greatest museums. As it has more than 7 miles (11.3km) of galleries, it’s hard to know where to begin. Take your time and wander around slowly.
Turn left into Prince Consort Road, which is home to the 600 students of the Royal College of Music. If you see some oddly shaped rucksacks and bags, they probably belong to a musician or student at this school, which provides courses for performers and composers. In the concert hall is an organ donated by composer Hubert Parry, who taught here, as did Charles Villiers Stanford and Ralph Vaughan Williams. Halfway along Prince Consort Road, on the right, there are some steps that lead up to the Royal Albert Hall, with its familiar glass-domed roof. At the top of these bear right to reach the main road, Kensington Gore. Cross this at the traffic lights for a closer look at the Albert Memorial, now restored to its former glory in Kensington Gardens. Retrace your steps back to the Royal Albert Hall. Turn right in front of it, continue along Kensington Gore, past the rather dull exterior of the Royal College of Art, until you reach Queen’s Gate.
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Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
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