Arguably, a day in Hammersmith should begin at The Patisserie Sainte-Anne on King Street, which first opened in Paris around 30 years ago. Now baking up a storm in west London, it attracts many hungry punters with its organic and freshly made French fare.
Then take your croissant and coffee to Ravenscourt Park, which you can access via the Sir William Bull Memorial Gates, also on King Street. From there you can explore the Ravenscourt Park Tree Trail, which leads you to the most notable 25 of the park’s 600+ trees. The space dates back to medieval times, when the central lake was part of the moat surrounding Paddenswick Manor. Today the park is popular for its tennis, football and cricket facilities.
After enjoying a park stroll, make your way down towards the river along King Street where you’ll pass Artisi a new development by Fabrica, a conversion of the Grade II listed Hammersmith Town Hall. The site is currently being redeveloped by Fabrica and Hammersmith & Fulham to provide 204 new homes, community art spaces, a rooftop bar, restaurants and a variety of workspaces for corporate and student use by early 2024. The homes set within Artisi will all enjoy private balconies or terraces, some with stunning views towards Furnival Gardens, the Thames and the iconic Hammersmith Bridge.
Once you get to the river, there are a number of pubs with beautiful riverside views. My recommendation is The Dove, an absolutely charming and richly historic watering hole, which is also home to the world’s smallest bar room.
History and the Arts are inherent in the tapestry of Hammersmith’s identity: it was here that Charles II charmed Nell Gwynne, and once home to perhaps the best-loved English Romantic artist, J. M. W. Turner, famed for his riverscapes and seascapes.
After a refreshing pint, if you head further along the river you will reach Riverside Studios where you might catch a matinee performance or arthouse film.
If you fancy further extending your walk, a little way along the Thames is Michelin-star restaurant, The River Café. You should book ahead if you want to eat here as tables are always in high demand and hard to come by.
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