Alma Terrace, Allen Street, London W8 KENSIGNTON

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Stratford Village, W8

Is this the perfect place to live? Olivia Palamountain investigates

Where is it?

Stratford Village comprises Stratford Road and Abingdon Road, hidden in the residential area between High Street Kensington and Earl’s Court, a world away from these bustling high streets.

What will I see?

It will be hard not to feel a pang of envy towards the lucky residents of Stratford Village – it really does have it all. As well as a peaceful yet convenient location, there are all the amenities a local would need. Plus, there’s enough going on to attract those from further afield – the Devonshire Arms’ outdoor terrace is a particularly popular draw. It’s a favourite with European expats and there are plenty of families in the area, but it manages to avoid being buggy central.

What can I buy?

Whether it’s weekday essentials or some weekend indulgence, this part of town is a great bet. There’s a fantastic organic grocer, The Garden Basket, and we love the authentic Italian coffee at La Piccola Deli. You can always buy your vin rouge at Nicolas on Stratford Road, but your Frenchie options include Fait Maison, an excellent café that serves Ottolenghi-style fare, and Chez Patrick for white tablecloth dining. This stretch of the village is also home to a mid-century modern Scandinavian furniture shop, Paere Dansk, full of impossible-not-to-love pieces. Foodies should lunch at much-lauded Kitchen W8 or try something more unusual at Naga, an Oriental restaurant that recently launched London’s first tofu bar. And there’s a pet shop, Animal Fair, should you fancy a new friend in your life – from budgerigars to rabbits and fish.

BACKSTORY

STRATFORD VILLAGE, W8

Kensington is in the Domesday Book as ‘Chenesitone’ in Latin, which has been interpreted as ‘Kenesignetun’ (Kenesigne’s land) in Anglo-Saxon.

1086: the manor is granted by William I to Geoffrey de Montbray, Bishop of Coutances.

Tenancy of Kensington is given to Aubrey de Vere I.

1095: the Veres’ estate at Kensington is known as Earls Court; the Abingdon lands are called Abbots Kensington.

2013: Kensington is one of London’s most affluent areas, with its high street regarded as one of the capital’s very best shopping streets.