Notting Hill & Portobello streets

The lowdown

Notting Hill is one of those neighbourhoods people travel across the world to photograph, and walking it costs nothing. The streets off Portobello Road are lined with terraces painted in sherbet pinks, blues and yellows, and the whole area has a relaxed, slightly bohemian feel that the films only half capture.

Half the fun is just getting lost. Wander up Portobello Road, cut along Lancaster Road and Elgin Crescent, peer through the railings at the private communal gardens, and you will keep finding prettier and prettier corners. On Saturdays the famous market fills the road with antiques, food and vintage stalls.

It is a neighbourhood made for aimless strolling, camera in hand, with a cafe stop whenever you fancy. Come on a quiet weekday and you will have those candy-coloured streets almost to yourself.