A Guide to Queen’s Park’s Best Spots
London living with a real community feel is probably the best way to describe the casual but trendy neighbourhood of Queen’s Park.
With excellent transport links (jump on the tube and you can be in Oxford Circus in just 15 minutes) and an immaculately-kept 30 acre park, equipped with petting zoo, bandstand and tennis courts, it’s fast become one of the capital’s most-sought after areas.
Named in honour of Queen Victoria, it’s home to several A-list celebrities including Thandie Newton, Sienna Miller and Daniel Craig.
The park is arguably the centrepiece of this buzzy but unpretentious neighbourhood. Opened in 1879 for the International Exhibition of the Royal Agricultural Society, this green open space is the perfect place to escape your crazy working day, whether you fancy a run to clear your head or you just want to relax with a book for an hour.
If it’s food you’re after, Queen’s Park won’t disappoint. Its culinary options are what really sets it apart from its neighbours.
In fact, foodies will have a field day.
Take a stroll down bustling Chamberlayne and Salusbury Roads, and you’ll be spoilt for choice thanks to the sheer number of gastropubs, cafes and eateries on offer.
One of our favourites is Michiko Sushino. Owned by cult fashion designer Michiko Koshino, this traditional yet modern Japanese restaurant serves some of the best sushi in London. Even superstar Kanye West has been spotted eating there with his daughter North.
If a laid back brunch spot is more your vibe, try Milk Beach. This Australian restaurant and bar is located in a picturesque mews just off the main stretch and is the perfect place to sample high quality seasonal cuisine as well as a cup of coffee made by co-founder Matthew Robley-Siemonsma, a two-time UK Roasting Champion.
Close by is Carmel, a must-visit for a divine lunch. Carmel is a relaxed all-day restaurant and bar in the heart of the Queen’s Park, which takes inspiration from the cuisines across the Eastern Mediterranean, creating an accessible, refined menu that seamlessly evolves from morning through to evening.
If you’re looking for a pub to grab a pint or glass of wine after work, there are plenty of options. The popular Salusbury is known for its high-end pizzas and stellar Sunday roasts (it also has its own deli next door serving organic fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses and meats). Alice House is a lively but relaxed local. And Wolfpack, a tap room and microbrewery run by two ex-professional rugby players, serves its own craft beer.
For some of the best coffee in the area, head to Dark Habit. This local favourite also serves a large selection of wines so is the perfect spot for your morning pick-me-up and post-work wind down.
Another of our favourite foodie spots is Provenance Butcher, a modern interpretation on the family butcher, which sells some of the best seasonal grass-fed, free-range meat we’ve ever tasted. Got a question about a cut of meat or need cooking tips? The knowledge of the staff is second to none.
But there’s more to Queen’s Park than its great food spots.
For art lovers – or anyone looking for a bit of escapism – Worldy Wicked and Wise Art Gallery showcases the rich history of north London’s music scene including pictures of the area’s legendary gigs featuring Louis Armstrong and The Beatles, to name a few. It also hosts guest shows throughout the year.
There’s also London’s only social enterprise cinema, The Lexi, which is a real local gem. This volunteer-run picture house hosts one-off showings, food-and-film nights and Q&As with filmmakers, academics and critics, with all profits going to charity.
And of course, if it’s shared workspace you’re after, look no further than The Loft. This beautifully-converted warehouse provides a light, modern and airy location for business owners, flexible workers and freelancers. Want to find out more? Take a virtual tour.
