St Peter's Notting Hill

St Peter’s Notting Hill stands in Kensington Park Road, a Victorian Anglican church designed by Thomas Allom in the classical style. Work began in 1855 and finished two years later. The church was built to hold 1,400 worshippers and is thought to be the last 19th-century London church in this style. Its exterior follows Allom’s plan for the surrounding streets, including Stanley Crescent and Stanley Gardens. The site was donated by Charles Henry Blake, a trader and philanthropist who had made his fortune in India. The interior is richly decorated, with many pillars topped by gilded capitals. The church was consecrated in 1857 by the Bishop of London, Archibald Campbell Tait. In 1982 the parishes of St Peter’s and St John’s were linked under one vicar, though they separated again in 2003. Today the church hosts lunchtime concerts in Notting Hill. Visitors find an elaborate classical building with high, light-filled naves. The gilded capitals catch the sunlight, adding to the grandeur. The interior layout still reflects its original purpose as a large congregation space. The church’s Grade II* listing recognises its architectural importance. Outside, the classical façade fits the refined streets around it.