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4 Yoga Spaces to Try in Kensington

Don’t want to venture far to experience a burst of toning activity that brings ease to the soul? When you stay in Kensington, London, you don’t have to. There are impressive yoga spaces you can head to near by with all sorts and styles of Yoga to give you a reenergizing break.

Yoga remains an all-time favorite fitness choice, full of benefits for mind and body. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced yogi, Yoga, Pilates, and barre classes are excellent and effective workouts that sculpt and tone the muscles, improve both mental and physical health and are offered in specific Yoga studios in London as well as gyms in London.

We’ve rounded up 4 Yoga studios in Kensington to find a perfect escape from the buzzing fast-paced city of London to save you some valuable time better spent on the mats.

1.     CORE COLLECTIVE – Kensington

This space offers more than yoga, but Power yoga is a class to try for those who like their yoga a little more intense. An energizing mixture of strength and flexibility poses with holds will kick start any time of your day.

2.     BARRECORE – Chelsea

When it comes to ballet inspired barre core, the graceful movements and postures have a little balance help. Deep stretches, sequences of Asanas, and breathing exercises here will leave you toned, stretched, and rejuvenated. You can even sign up online and enjoy customized workouts from your home.

3.     TRIYOGA – Chelsea

This gem offers a huge variety of yoga classes of various styles and relaxation methods, workshops and treatments. A place for peace of mind, this is a recommended well equipped yoga zone to visit.

4.     VIRGIN ACTIVE – Kensington

Virgin active is full of life and activity, where you can experience all sorts of Anti-gravity yoga and barre classes, align- forest/ Hatha/Scarvelli and Iyengar yoga. Go upside down and airborne for aerial yoga in silk hammocks for an amazingly fun way to tone, stretch and relieve the stresses of the week. Give it a try.

Where ever you choose to go, whatever activity you are looking for, we regularly blog about the best things to do in London and are more than happy to direct you to where you want to go. A great hotel does all and more to make your stay a pleasant one and that’s why we at Mowbray Court Hotel, Earls Court, Kensington, know how to relax and get some down time in and share all the good information.

5 Alternative Things to do in London this Valentines 2019

5_alternative_things_to_do_in_London_this_valentines

 

If you are in London this valentine, there’re great many ways to celebrate – other than the usual roses and box of chocolates. The magnificent city of London offers mind opening experiences and deep soulful sounds of life whether you plan to celebrate with romance or not.

Here are 5 alternative things to do in London on Valentine’s day.

 

Gaze into the Colours of Bonnard

For the lovers of art, a gorgeous idea for a dreamy date, take a trip into the colour filled, soul reviving and enlightening world of the French painter Pierre Bonnard. View some of his stunning pieces in the exceptional ‘The C C Land Exhibition Pierre Bonnard The Colour of Memory’ on at the Tate Modern.

To top it off, you could head up to the 6th floor for a breath-taking view from Tate Modern and enjoy a romantic dinner with the London Skyline all around you.

What: The C C Land Exhibition Pierre Bonnard The Colour of Memory

Where: Tate Modern, Bankside

Price: GBP 18.00

 

Marvel at Dior

For love of fashion, design, beauty and desire visit the Christian Dior – ‘Designer of Dreams’ exhibition in The Victoria and Albert Museum. A beautiful display of ‘the century’s most influential couturier’, explore the history of and impact of Dior on fashion all the way back from 1947 until present day. The historical fashion house of design exhibition will bring sparkle to anyone’s eyes and be fabulous to share with whoever you are paired up with on the day of love.

What: Christian Dior‘Designer of Dreams’ Exhibition

Location: V&A, Cromwell Road

Price: GBP 20-24

 

Get Mediterranean in Cous Cous Darna Restaurant

A sensual dinner choice, Darna is said by many to have the best Moroccan food in London. Warm the heart with a plate of flavorsome fluffy couscous in Moroccan ambiance. The cultural cuisine and setting will enthuse hypnotic energy and an evening to remember.

What: Couscous Darna Restaurant

Location: 306 Earls Court Road, South Kensington

Cuisine: Local, African, Moroccan, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean

 

Join the Embargo Event ‘Gatsby’ Style

If you are in the mood for an evening of dancing, booze drinking, live jazz music, and immersive performances, Embargo event is a ‘Gatsby’ themed night of 1920’s decadence. Transport back to the fun of the roaring twenties during prohibition, where you and your companion will be welcomed with a drink to start with, followed by a 3-course dinner and a half-bottle of prosecco.

What: Valentines Show and Dinner Embargo event

Location: Ivory Vaults, Ivory House St Katherine Docks

Price: GBP 65

 

Forget your Surroundings with the Soul of a Cappella

The U. K’s leading female a cappella quintet will perform powerful and soulful songs of the High Priestess of Soul, Nina Simone, in the award winning live venue The Jazz Café this Valentines. Whether you choose to sit and dine or stand and just soak up the beauty of their voices in an exquisite performance, this is something that will definitely take the spot light off your companion and fire up the rhythms of your soul – which makes it on the list of alternative things to do on Valentines.

What: Black Voices Quintet Present: The Soul of Nina Simone

Where: The Jazz Café, 5 Parkway London, Camden

Price: Standing GBP 15, Restaurant GBP 25

 

 

We understand that it’s not always easy to narrow down the best things to do on your visit to London. That’s what we are here for. we at the Mowbray Court Hotel, Earls Court, take our time to give you the top places to go whatever the occasion, to share remarkable activities we come across and tailor to our guest’s information inquiries. Find more of what you are looking for on our blog.

We wish you a gorgeous Valentines day however you decide to celebrate.  

Animal Aid Christmas Fayre – Kensington Town Hall, Sunday Dec 9th 2018

Welcome Christmas! The time for giving, caring, warmth and joy  extends to the animals too. Sunday Dec 9th sees the popular Animal Aid’s London Christmas fair in the Kensington, London, celebrating with over a 100 stalls of animal cruelty-free items for you to enjoy along with the support of ethical companies and campaign groups.

For all vegan and animal lovers and even those who like a little variety, join the good cause with one of the UK’s largest animal rights group and celebrate a lovely day in an animal cruelty-free event. Throughout the day from 10:30-4:30PM in the Kensington Town Hall, yummy vegan cakes and beers, dairy-free cheeses, chocolate and savory pies will be on offer for your liking. There will also be a wonderful variety of animal-friendly footwear, clothing, jewelry, artwork, and skincare products. A great place to start your Christmas shopping!

Children’s workshop will also entertain the little ones as they dive deeper into the values of animal rights.

Just a brief 15-20min walk from Mowbray court hotel, Kensington, London, we point you in all the right directions, because even Santa loved his reindeer – the naughty ones too J

Let’s do what we can in the ways we can to help give a warm and merry Christmas to big and small furry animals.

Admission GDP 3, children under 11 yrs are admitted for free.

 

Winter Wonderland Christmas in London

Winter Wonderland Christmas in London

Winter wonderland is here again! Start your Christmas season with  a trip to Hyde Park, starting November 22nd until January 6th where this royal garden is turned into a month long festive land of many activities.

December in London is a spectacle to see for all visitors! Not only is it known for its magical Christmas lights and Christmas markets, London gives happiness to all ages with the massive Winter Wonderland fair that offers abundant activities.

There is everything for absolutely everyone. You and your family can delight in all sorts of games, fairground, 9 rollacoster rides, a two circuses – ‘Zippos Christmas Circus’ and ‘Cirque Berserk’ and observation wheel. Find all your Christmas gifts as you walk through the Christmas market where you’ll come across interesting trinkets and handmade items.

Of course there are a numerous food stalls and pubs offering mulled wine, tasty meals, and all sorts of beers. Enter the rustic wooden cozy chalets of the German Bavarian Village, where an authentic Oktoberfest experience with outdoor seating, bars, cafes, and restaurants which make for a wonderful place to socialize, and even enjoy corporate team bonding events.

An even bigger ice rink than last year’s is set to warm your body temperature, skill and giggle level. Take it one step further and participate in the ice sculpture workshops. This year also holds the Backyard Cinemas presents The Snowman Experience, a once in a lifetime chance to immerse yourself into the timeless Christmas animation.

Experience a trip to its Winter Wonderland Comedy show or enjoy the ‘Peter Pan on Ice’ ice skating stunning performance. When you pick your hotel in Kensington, London, for your holiday, stay close to the best Christmas attraction. We are available to help you get you to Winter Wonderland by directing you to the nearest Tube Stations – Earl’s Court tube station, as well as aid in booking all your tickets.

Located in Kensington, get to visit attractions such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Royal Albert Hall, as you make your way to Knightsbridge for some shopping in the famous Harrods shopping center, before starting your journey into Winter Wonderland.

This winter, let us give you a real London Christmas. Book your stay with us, Mowbray Court Hotel, and we will guide you to the Christmas spirit of Winter Wonderland for you and your loved ones.

Enjoy spectacular birthday party celebrations at Smithfield

birthday party celebrations at Smithfield

One of the most historic corners of the City of London is holding a birthday party this August Bank Holiday – and everyone is invited! It’s the time you should go to Smithfield to enjoy spectacular party celebrations complete with parades, birthday cake, and roller disco.

For centuries Smithfield has been an indispensable part of London life.  Farmers brought their cows, sheep, geese, and other animals for sale here, and later it became the center of general meat trading. As London became more and more congested, it was difficult to maintain an open space for the fair.

The Victorians decided to build a grand covered market complete with dragons on the roof! While being a resident at Mowbray Court Hotel Kensington head towards this building that is now celebrating its 150th birthday, and the City of London is doing it in style.

There is something for everyone, from children to adults.  Street games, parades, giant puppets, fairground rides, birthday cake, cooking demonstrations, pop-up markets, music, and dance. There is also a roller disco for anyone prepared to put on their skates and dance.  

 Smithfield

The Bartholomew’s Carnival of Delights is guaranteed to amaze and amuse, likewise the dramatic Kinetica Bloco procession.  Sit back and enjoy the most exciting musical talent and food sourced from around the city.

You can read also: Disney100: The Exhibition – A Century of Enchantment

Discover the beauty of Henna Art at the Henna House where all kinds of designs including intricate florals and bold tribal art can be seen while searching for accommodation in Kensington London for best stay with friends and family.

There are choirs, funky brass bands, Electropop, cowbells, multicultural bands, and even a spectacular sheep procession!  If comedy is your preference, seek out the comedy club where a range of comedians will be entertaining crowds.

Find out about the characters who made history here at Smithfield.  Horrible Histories takes a lively look at their stories, while the Kino Van offers an opportunity to watch archive films about women suffragettes in the area fighting for the right to vote in elections.

Want to find out more about Smithfield’s history? Then join one of the many guided tours that take place around this area.  City Guides offer an opportunity to discover Smithfield at work but you do need to get up early! These tours start at 7 am in the morning, as the daily trading actually starts around 3 am every day finishing at 10 am.  

Alternatively, join one of the tours led by the Museum of London and for that, you need to check out budget hotel rooms in London to book your stay and visit various other attractions in the city. These guided walks focus on the history of the area and include a look at Bartholomew Fair, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, and the role of Smithfield as a place of execution, including death by fire.

Outdoor Cinemas – Enjoy a perfect Sun-soaked Summers

Outdoor Cinemas

Sun-soaked summers are perfect for enjoying the outdoors – and what better way to relax on a balmy summer evening than with a film at an outdoor cinema.  London is fortunate in that it has several really good options available. We take a look at some of the best.

Somerset House Film 4 Summer Screen is definitely one of the most popular, attracting over 2,000 people each night.  The setting is gorgeous. It is a massive courtyard surrounded by a beautiful historic building just off The Strand near Charing Cross Station.  (Take a cushion, the cobbles can be uncomfortable after a while!).

Somerset House Film 4 Summer Screen

Having said that, early birds get the best positions and there is lots of entertainment before the film starts. While being a resident at Mowbray Court London, you can buy food and drink on the spot, or bring a picnic.  The choice of films varies from day to day but is set to include plans like Blue Velvet, Inception and Labyrinth as well as several red carpet premieres.  

Equally prestigious locations can be enjoyed at Luna Cinema, which operates from a range of venues across London.  Sites include Hampton Court Palace, Regents Park, Kew Gardens, Kensington Palace, Greenwich Park and Alexandra Palace. There are lots of food stalls in the vicinity selling the best of local street food.  Films on offer include Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shaun of the Dead and Dunkirk.

Head over to Fest Camden Roof Gardens where the best of British comedy, action, and satire are being screened throughout August with titles like Four Lions, Snatch, Human Traffic and Kevin & Perry Go Large.  

Fest Camden Roof Gardens

It is a very relaxing venue surrounded by lush vegetation. Drinks are brought to your seat as you watch, and you can even enjoy a delicious pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven.  Book in advance – seats are limited.

How about enjoying a river cruise while watching a film? City Cruises are operating special movie cruises from Tower Pier showing films such as Casablanca, Jaws, Ghostbusters and Top Gun. There are numerous hotels near these London attractions and this has to be ultimate in comfort, although it can be hard keeping your attention on the film as the night time views along the river are stunning.

Just across the river from Tower Pier, London Bridge City is running its annual Summer by the River season. Films like The Greatest Showman, Into the Woods, Guardians of the Galaxy are being shown on a big screen at The Scoop outdoor auditorium.

Thames River Cinema

You can also search out for affordable accommodation in Kensington London &  nearby is a fiesta of food, as well as lots of summery drinks.

Slightly further afield in south London, the Lost Format Cinema is reappearing on top of a Croydon Car Park offering a massive variety of films plus a DJ with music to enjoy all night long.  If you prefer multicultural films, it is worth trying Block Party Cinemas at Pop Brixton. Comfy chairs are promised along with free popcorn!

Search out Kingly Court for the best food in London

 

Kingly Court

What’s your preference?  Pizza, burgers, seafood – or are you interested in something more unusual like Korean street food or Peruvian food?  Then head for the Kingly Court to find the perfect meal.

The range of dining opportunities at Kingly Court is enormous, and it is easily accessible to anyone shopping in Oxford Street, Soho or visiting West End theatres making the perfect food destination.  Located just off Regent Street near Liberty’s, and beside Carnaby Street, it is very easy to find. Being a resident at Mowbray Court Hotel London in one hand will make your stay comfortable and in close proximity to the above-mentioned restaurants will make taste more mouth watery.

This is where you can dine or relax with a drink, sitting outside in the pretty courtyard or seek shelter when the weather is cooler.

So just what is on offer?  The answer is something for everyone no matter whether you are vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, carnivore or pescatarian.  You can explore new flavors and dining experiences, or stick to something more traditional.

Senor Ceviche offers a great range of Peruvian food with menus that include Chiffa Chicharrones, Pachamanca Ribs, Super Pollo, and Ceviche.  Alternatively, if Asian food is your preferred choice then head for Jinjuu Soho for the best in Korean street food such as wagyu mini burgers or bibimbap. Life Goddess majors on Greek food like meze, grilled octopus, and mousakka made in traditional clay pots and Pizza Pilgrims offers a great choice of pizza.

Equally worth trying for something unusual is Le Bab’smiddle eastern style cuisine where the menu includes pigs head, shawarma and cauliflower pastilla cooked over charcoal and wood.  Mongolian lamb and kimchi chicken can be found at dishes at the Oka Restaurant. Anyone seeking a really good brunch should take a look at The Good Egg, which offers a Jerusalem style brunch throughout the day. Or you can try jerk chicken and spicy Jamaican food at Rum Kitchen.

Pescatarians will love the Wright brothers menu as this includes langoustines, tempura monkfish, skate wing served with a spicy chili jam, crab in a bisque sauce as well as the ever-popular raw oysters.

Want to try some really classic British food? Then head for Shampers Wine Bar and Restaurant.  Innovative cake flavors can be enjoyed at Crumbs & Doilies Bakery and Cake Shop where cakes can include rainbow, peanut butter, and Raspberry ripple flavors. There are numerous cheap hotels near Earls Court where you can stay and taste some really delicious classic British food.

Prefer American style burgers? Stax Diner is a good choice – but don’t expect a straight burger in a bun.  The menu includes Caramel Blue Cheeseburgers, Buttermilk chicken, and Halal gourmet burgers.

Complete the Kingly Court experience with a drink in the 1940’s style Cahoots Cocktail Bar where you can try a Vera Lynn cocktail served in a Toby Jug!

An opportunity to see inside the Queen’s London home

BuckinghamPalace

Buckingham Palace is one of the most photographed and iconic buildings in London.  As a working palace, it is not possible for tourists to go inside for much of the year.  The exception comes in the summer. When the Queen is on holiday, Buckingham Palace opens its doors to guided tours of the State Rooms. But you do need to book your stay at Mowbray Court Hotel quickly as each tour has only a limited number of spaces available.

Walking across the famous entrance courtyard, visitors ascend the Grand staircase just like the thousands of people who attend the many state events and ceremonial occasions held here throughout the year.  The State Rooms are where the Queen meets ambassadors and dignitaries from all over the world, undertaking investitures, ceremonial events, and state banquets. During the guided tours, tables are laid out with silver and porcelain just as they would appear to participants on those grand occasions.

During the special summer tours, tourists are guided through a total of 19 State Rooms including the massive Ballroom, the White Drawing Room, and the Throne Room.  Many of these rooms will be instantly recognizable from countless official photographs taken at events like Royal Weddings and Christenings. The famous wedding photographs of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were taken in the Throne Room.

The guided tours offer a wonderful opportunity to see some spectacular artworks not normally on public view.  The Royal Collection is one of the greatest art collections in the world and contains masterpieces by virtually every pre-eminent artist and sculptor.  It has a superb collection of Faberge and objects d’art, many of which can be seen displayed on occasional tables throughout the State Rooms.  The walls, needless to say, are adorned with priceless artworks by the likes of Canaletto, Rubens, Rembrandt, Titian and Van Dyke.

 

Buckingham Palace Tour

This summer there will also be an extra display specially chosen by the Prince of Wales, highlighting some of the more unusual items within the Royal Collection. Typical of these items is a magnificent cloak which was originally owned by Napoleon Bonaparte. The cloak was found in his carriage following the Battle of Waterloo and was presented as a souvenir to the future George IV.  

Don’t forget to take the opportunity while searching for budget Hotels in Central London, to explore the wonderful gardens. These are one of the hidden gardens of London, a green oasis among the busy streets.  Hidden away behind the brick walls surrounding the palace are expansive lawns, a lake, flower beds and lots of trees.

While in the area, you can also opt for a visit to the Royal Mews.  This is where the Queen’s collection of carriages and carriage horses can be found.  All of the carriages are in constant use during events such as Ascot, at royal weddings and royal occasions such as the State Opening of Parliament.

Gin Festival London Summer 2018

Gin Festival London Summer 2018

Gin has become fashionable again and London is definitely the place to find the latest variations.  Its traditional Gin Palaces have reawakened, and are attracting huge crowds. But trying to find the best places to enjoy a really good Gin and Tonic doesn’t mean the nearest pub.  For those in the know, there are some fantastic places to stay such as Mowbray Court Hotel Kensington from where you can visit various Gin Parlours that offer an incomparable gin experience.

Mr. Fogg’s Gin Parlour, Covent Garden

Possibly one of the all-time best, and certainly the most quirky, is Mr. Fogg’s Gin Parlour.  Anyone familiar with Jules Verne’s classic novel, Around the World in 80 Days, will immediately recognize the references as they enter the pub since this is based around the character and storyline of Mr. Phineas Fogg.  The bar actually describes itself as ‘the gin parlor of the eccentric British adventurer’ and has a distinctly Victorian atmosphere. There are austere photographs on the walls, and thick curtains drape the windows. Take a close look at the bar – it is a bit unusual as it contains numerous drawers of varying sizes.  As to the gin – you are spoilt for choice as over 300 variations are on offer.

 City of London Distillery (C.O.L.D) Blackfriars

Move forward in time to the American Prohibition with its Speakeasy style when you stop for a drink at the City of London Distillery.  Gin bubbles away in huge copper containers beside the bar and you can even distill your own personal bottle to take home.  Just ask to visit the Gin Lab where you can create your own personal recipe, but before that you must check out for accommodation Earls Court London and experience various Gin events to the fullest.

The Gin Bar High Holborn

You need to take your time choosing at this venue, as there are over 500 different gins and 30 tonics available.  The result is over 14,000 possible combinations of flavors and styles not counting the innumerable gin cocktails also on offer!  Fortunately, the bar staff is knowledgeable and helpful in whittling down the choices to suit your personal taste.  Stylish and sophisticated, it is an extremely popular venue.

The Gin Palace at the Strand Hotel

This is an elegant cocktail bar offering over 30 gins in addition to a good range of cocktails. Worth considering is the unusual Gin & Tea – the bar’s original take on the idea of afternoon tea.  Expect a classic afternoon tea, with a gin cocktail twist!

Explore London by Bus

Explore London by bus

If time is short, then sightseeing by bus is an ideal option.  You can hop on, enjoy sights, listen to the commentary and hop off at any part of the route, rejoining the bus whenever you like.  It is a great way to get around London, see as many places as possible and visit those places you really want to see close up.

There are several open-top bus tours available. Typical operators include the London Sightseeing Bus Tours, Golden Buses, and Big Bus Tours.  Tickets are valid only on buses operated by a specific company. You cannot just jump on anyone along the route. If you have come to explore London, then you would be searching for the affordable hotels like Mowbray Court Hotel which will serve you the best services with the amazing offers.

All the buses offer a guided commentary that can be accessed via special earphones. This commentary will tell you all about the places you are seeing, as well as background stories about London and its history.  You can choose which language to listen to, as these audio guides are available in most major languages including Mandarin, Russian, German and French. Tickets are valid for 24 hours, starting from the moment you first use the ticket.  Some companies offer longer periods so check the details carefully before buying.

The big advantage of these buses is that you can hop on and hop off at any point along the route.  If you want, you can stay on the bus for the entire trip, then go round again stopping wherever you like.  It offers a lot of flexibility to create your perfect sightseeing day. And don’t forget the photo opportunities. Head upstairs to enjoy the best views of iconic buildings like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.  

Routes offered by each operator tend to be very similar, but with slight variations.  For example, the London Bus Sightseeing Tour offers access to several routes which you can mix and match as you please.  So if you are looking to visit Madame Tussauds, you should aim for the Orange Route.  You can then head for the Red Route to explore the area around the British Museum.  It is important to check out all the different options and find out which one is right for you. While travelling to different popular attractions of the city, you need someplace where you can have comfortable stay by hunting for the accommodation in Kensington London.

There also tours which offer something just that bit different such as tours that explore the history of the Beatles and 1960’s music.  While those interested in the darker side of London should not miss the distinctive Ghost bus tour with its creepy tales of ghosts, witches, and ghoulies!