Wall Murals: An Interesting Alternative to the London Art Scene.

London is a melting pot of innovation and design and undoubtedly the number one spot in Europe for alternative tourism. London artists have used the walls of the city as an urban canvas, to tell and retell the stories of local residents: come with Boutique London Lets on a tour down the streets of Brixton, Soho and Kilburn and spot the London murals, giving an interesting and honest portrayal of London life.

We begin our journey in Kilburn to view the largest permanent public graffiti art mural ever commissioned in the UK. The 300m2 mural was put together by the Signal Project in 2004 and has come to represent and define the area, reflecting its vast multiculturalism and historic roots, with subtle references to local themes – it is clear that the local community had some say in the creative process.  You can spot images of people moving between the city and the countryside, as well as famous locals and fanciful creatures. Drop by Kilburn Station (Jubilee Line) to see this incredible piece of London design.

Kilburn Mural, London

Next up, we are spoiled by the colourful designs that are painted upon the walls of Brixton. They say that a picture speaks a thousand words, and never has this been more fitting. Many of these murals were painted in the aftermath of the Brixton riots of 1981, and portray ideas relating to the politics of the time and are considered a representation of the local community. The London Mural Preservation Society recently funded a restoration project, to repair the Brixton murals and ensure their conservation.  The murals of Brixton are all within walking distance of each other and are well worth a visit, should you wish to experience London as it is to the local community.

The recently renovated Brixton Windmill mural in Brixton, London

Our last stop brings us to Carnaby Street and the Spirit of Soho, designed to document the A to Z of life in Soho. The image boasts a bizarre collection of images to represent a potted history and geography of Soho – an array of fruit and vegetables, next to shifty bunch of men trying to sneak a peek up the skirt of a woman, next to images of local hotspots and residents. Stop off at Oxford Street Station (Bakerloo and Victoria Line) to see this London artwork.

The Spirit of Soho, off Carnaby Street, London

London boasts an incredible array of urban art works, all of which can be viewed with the tap of an Oyster Card. All of the London murals featured in this post are within easy reach of all Boutique London Lets apartments - just hop on the tube and see them for yourselves. Get to know London and what it means to locals - not something you'll find in a guidebook!

Your Stay in London this August - Head to Notting Hill Carnival!

Notting Hill Carnival should be number one on your list of things to do during your stay in London this Summer. Boutique London Lets gives you the essentials on London's biggest street party!

London at its Most Vibrant! (Photo Credit: PA)

WHAT: A street carnival that has stayed true to its Caribbean roots - something so vibrant, lively, diverse and colourful that it has grown and grown annually since its birth in 1964. Expect 50,000 costumed performers, colourful floats, traditional Caribbean food stalls, Calypso music and steel bands as well as 40 sound systems that will keep you dancing all weekend long.


WHEN:  Held every year on the Sunday (26th) and Monday (27th) of the August Bank Holiday weekend, the street festival is the biggest of its kind in Europe. The Carnival Bands take to the streets around 9am on both days, finishing up by 7pm. Sunday is Children's Day, with a shorter parade route and competitions. Monday is the day of the main procession.


WHERE: Notting Hill is in the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. See the 'HOW' section for information on transport routes to and from the Carnival.


WHY: Notting Hill Carnival began in 1964 as a way to showcase the steel band musicians of Earls Court, and a reminder to local residents of their Caribbean roots. It was a celebration of the abolition of slavery and the slave trade and an expression of newfound freedom.


HOW: The Carnival can be easily reached by public transport, but be sure to plan your journey in advance. Your best bet is travelling to High Street Kensington (Circle Line), Bayswater or Paddington and taking the short walk to Notting Hill as Ladbroke Grove, Notting Hill Gate, Royal Oak and Westbourne Park stations are likely to be closed or running a restricted service on account of the large amount of congestion. There is limited parking available so it may not be the best option to take the car.


Boutique London Lets has a number of apartments for rent in central and exciting locations - all our locations have great transport links, so travelling to and from the Carnival shouldn't be too much trouble. Get your dancing shoes on and make the most of your August Bank Holiday Weekend in London!

Make The Most Of The Summer And Dine Al Fresco - A Must Do During Your Stay In London

At long last, you can really make the most of your summer stay in London as the sunshine returns to the capital! After weeks upon weeks of rain, Londoners are smiling again! So why not make the most of the summer sun, and spend your holiday in London outdoors – and meal times needn’t be any different. Boutique London Lets presents al fresco dining at its best.



The River Café, Thames Wharf, Hammersmith:
Enjoy the culinary delights of this Michelin starred restaurant, from the comfort of the sunny Thames riverside. Placing an emphasis on the finest ingredients, The River Café offers a bright and fresh take on Italian home cooking and is widely regarded as the best Italian restaurant in London. It has received a consistently good response from critics for its atmosphere, so on a sunny day, it is not one to be missed. Menus are tweaked daily in response to the weather, and expect to pay above average prices. Still – you get what you pay for!

The River Cafe on a Summers Day!

The Serpentine Bar and Kitchen, Hyde Park:
For an al fresco dining experience that won’t break the bank, try the Serpentine Bar and Kitchen, found at the very heart of the ever picturesque Hyde Park. The Serpentine serves a delightful all day dining menu, with much of the food cooking in a wood-fired oven to create a beautiful blend of French and English cuisine. The Serpentine is the place to go for al fresco afternoon tea, with a lunch menu of sandwiches and cakes. Their intention is to create a retreat for Londoner and tourists alike, and have done so quite successfully with their blend of home cooking and its beautiful natural setting. You can expect to pay around £8-15 for a main course.

Serpentine Bar and Kitchen at the Heart of Hyde Park

The Albion, Islington:
The Albion gives you a bit of the traditional English country pub in the heart of the hustle and bustle of London. In the summer, you can expect all food to be cooked fresh upon the grill of an outdoor barbeque, and diners can look forward to ordering a whole suckling pig for ten to share. Upon the summer menu is a mix of freshly cooked meat, fish and vegetables, as well as a wide selection of lagers, beers, real ales, ciders and an extensive wine list developed by experts from across the country. You can expect to pay around £10-17 for a main course.

Enjoy the Sun at The Albion in Islington

So there we have it! Make the most of your stay in London this summer. If Olympic fever has tired you out, take some time out and enjoy lunch in the summer sun. For other ideas on how to enjoy the summer nights, have a look at our blog on outdoor cinemas in London – why not do something a little bit different with your evening?