Although it has the reputation as being one of the Capital’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Knightsbridge riches are surprisingly accessible, too. Representing locals, businesses and workers in the area, www.knightsbridgeldn.co.uk has complied an insider’s guide to savvy finds and favourite places – throwing an affordable light on the destination.
Start the Day with some Croissant Perfection at Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley and Espresso Expertise at Carpo
The darling of French patisserie, celebrated pastry chef Cédric Grolet has an enclave in the most beautiful of locations at The Berkeley hotel. Start the day with a take away pastry from the kitchen of croissant-making-master (his Instagram site really is eye-candy) from £7. Accompany this with for awake-up coffee shot by inhaling some morning joy at Carpo Knightsbridge, where a single shot of espresso costs just £2.20.
Luxe-for-Less Lunch at Harrods Food Hall and three-courses for a surprising snip at The Lanesborough Hotel
Drool for free at the delights in Harrod’s famous food hall, then either pick up a sandwich for around £5 or £6, feast on the oh-so-tasty rotisserie platter for around £10 or share some Lebanese favourites including silky hummus, fresh salads and warm flat breads – from £12 at the Levant Bakery. Alternatively, for some lunchtime fine-dining without the stuffiness, the two-course set menu served in the elegant Lanesborough Grill restaurant, is a surprisingly easy-on-the-bank balance option at just £38 per person.
Knightsbridge 18th October 2022
Arty Fix for Free
For a free arty fix, Knightsbridge’s latest offering, The ARX on Brompton Road, is gratis and open Fridays and Saturdays (11am to 6pm). This huge visionary space hosts a diverse revolving programme of multi-sensory exhibitions from up-and-coming contemporary artists to established names, including Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin. Venture onwards to Hyde Park, where art lovers can find more cost-free contemporary artistic inspiration at the Serpentine Gallery; alternatively, for art in nature, seek out an array of exhibits from the large-scale bronze Pan Statue , to The Huntress Fountain and the Boy and Dolphin (both located in The Rose Garden), and the Queen Caroline Memorial Urn. There is even a virtual ‘ghost’ installation of the Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations of 1851. Thanks to technology, it is now possible to walk inside the Crystal Palace, marvel at its true scale in an augmented reality experience and discover fascinating stories about what happened within it.
Try before you buy at Harrods with a My Wardrobe HQ designer rental from £6 per day
As an alternative to keepsake clothing, the My Wardrobe HQ pop-up in Harrods allows shoppers to support sustainable circular fashion by renting a special look from the Harrods edit at ridiculously low prices. Located in Contemporary and Denim on the fourth floor, delight in finds from Needle & Thread, Ganni and Isabel Marant to Vampire’s Wife and Zimmerman, with daily outfit rentals priced from £6 per day.
From Vintage Watches to Designer Pre-loves, here’s where to sniff out haute couture on a budget
For fashionistas seeking a keepsake individual look that is also kind to the planet, pre-loved is the way to go. Located within its well-heeled streets, Knightsbridge has some surprising secret finds. Theodore’s Collection on Brompton Road, for example, not only repairs watches, but is also home to rare collectables and pre-worn. Meanwhile, from pre-loved watches to pre-loved handbags, shoes, accessories and more, Sellier Knightsbridge at 6 Cheval Place is an exclusive one-stop-shop for serious designer classics – you’ll find everything from rare Hermès bags and Balenciaga trainers, to Victoria Beckham sunglasses and Gucci trousers (a snip at £120!). There is even a celebrity edit, with style selections from the likes of Georgia Toffolo and Kelly Piquet. A few doors along, at 16-22 Cheval Place, another one for luxe-bargain hunters is Pandora Dress Agency. Filled with gorgeous second-hand designer clothes, the shop also has sales, making bargain designer finds even more of a bargain.
Shop the Sales and Tune into the Live Beauty Events
Keep an eye on the websites of Harrods and flagship stores like Alpha Tauri and Burberry for news of their sales, when savings of 50% or more can be enjoyed on designer brands. Plus – a must for beauty fans – the bi-annual spring and autumn Beauty Social at Harvey Nichols offers discounts, talks, masterclasses and giveaways as part of the nominal ticket price.
Photographer – Ed Reeve
Hit the Bar for some History at the Egerton and Aperitivo Hour at Minas
Discover the history and origins of the Martini with a Martini masterclass at The Egerton Hotel – just £35 per person including making and sampling the perfect Martini, with seasonal canapés to accompany your beverages. On nearby Motcomb St, Mina‘s offers offers cheekily priced aperitivo cocktails for just £9, every Monday to Friday between 4pm and 7pm.
With warmest thanks to Liz Blakeborough and Jo Gaukrodger of Blakeborough PR
