The Hillgate
24 Hillgate Street London W8 7SR
A few minutes, and a world, away from the frenetic bustle of Notting Hill Gate, The Hillgate is a great little pub – recently gastro-pubified if we're honest, but in such a way that it's lost none of its character, with lovely panelling and small windows, and a cosy nook squeezed in at the end that feels like it hasn't changed since Dickens's time. It's quiet during the day and gets a little bit busier at night, but never matches the pandemonium of Portobello Road. The food is fairly traditional gastro-pub fare (heavy on meat, fish and puddings), and they don't have many interesting ales on tap, but it's a nice spot for a relaxing drink if you need a break from the buzz of Portobello, and after you're done you can explore the back-streets of chi-chi North Kensington.