Discovering London's Villages: Belgravia

The villages of London are without a doubt, my favourite aspect of this amazing city. Each has its own personality, community, hubs and secret corners and a few days ago I headed over to one of the most beautiful (and expensive) residential areas of the world – Belgravia – to wander the streets and explore some of the most delicious foodie spots the area has tucked away under its wing.

Thomas Cubitt, born in 1788,  is the name that many people today think of when in Belgravia as he was responsible for so much of the development. His name has really stood the test of time, with many mentions in Belgravia, including the famous pub – The Thomas Cubitt on Elizabeth Street. He also developed the east face of Buckingham Palace and personally funded and built nearly a kilometer of the Thames Embankment, along with many many other developments. Cubitt is thought of by many, as having done more to change the face of London than any other man — ever.

With that in mind, I couldn’t help but feel the history of my city beneath my feet as I turned each quiet corner and cobbled mews.
First stop for me was The Fine Cheese Company, where I joined a goats cheese masterclass in their private event room downstairs. I tasted several delicious goats cheeses and also learnt some top tips for keeping cheese fresh…

Top tip: Don’t move your cheeses in and out of the fridge. Rather keep the cheeses on the cheese- board fresh as daisies by covering the entire board with a CLEAN, wet tea towel that has been rung out so that it is just damp.

If you love cheese you absolutely must pay this place a visit – they are real experts and the cheese is all absolutely delicious.
Next stop was cronut legend Dominique Ansel Bakery on Elizabeth Street, where I tried a number of unbelievably delicious treats, accompanied by a smooth latte. I could try to explain how amazing everything was, but hopefully my pictures will speak for themselves…

I sat outside in the gorgeously bright terrace and indulged in sweet naughtiness and had a chance to chat to Dominique himself, who absolutely loves Belgravia and the strong community spirit. He said he had felt so welcomed into the neighbourhood, and I loved hearing that, especially as you’d be forgiven for thinking that this wealthy area could be quite tricky to penetrate as a newbie… But no. Apparently, it’s a total warm delight!

Then it was up and onwards to another Belgravia neighbour – Peggy Porschen, also on Elizabeth Street and whom I also was lucky enough to meet. She too shared exactly the same sentiments about the community as Dominique Ansel. Hurrah!

The beautiful pink cafe is a total delight for all the senses. It smells so good I would have started chomping at the walls if I didn’t know any better. Which I do. Thank goodness. Owning a pink cake shop was a childhood dream for Peggy, and she spoke with such excitement and enthusiasm about her beautiful shop.
She sparkled when she chatted about all the beautiful pictures of her shop on Instagram, taken by all of you! So do keep on taking them – she loves seeing them!
My final stop of the day was to Daylesford Organic on Pimlico Road…

From Farm to fork, Daylesford Organic really is the bees knees when it comes to getting back to the roots of British food. Literally. I wandered around the farm shop, the cook shop and homewares and admire the bright open cafe upstairs as well – I’m a big fan of Daylesford and I was lucky enough to go and stay on the farm at the end of the Summer! That post will be up on my blog in a few days so keep your eyes peeled – it was extremely special.




Belgravia looks especially magical now, up to its knees in Autumn. So do pop over (with an empty stomach) and why not do some exploring yourself…
And do say hello from me.
 
This post was shot on my LEICA D-LUX – dinky but dynamic 😉

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