About Chelsea
One of London’s most exclusive neighborhoods, Chelsea is an attractive area for residential properties. The River Thames flows to the south, and Fulham Road marks the boundary with Kensington. Its roots as an enclave for the wealthy date to the late 17th century when it was a rural village outside of central London.
The borough later became a thriving hub of talented artists during the 19th century Victorian age. Closer to modern times, Chelsea was one of London’s focal points for the cultural revolution of the 1960s. Known as the “Swinging Sixties,” free-spirited fashion designers, rock stars, artists, and outspoken creatives made Chelsea their stomping grounds during this revolutionary period.
King’s Road remains an iconic thoroughfare that weaves through the busiest sections of Chelsea. However, the bohemian vibe has given way to affluence once again, and designer shops, antique dealers, and upscale restaurants now decorate the roadway.
Things to do near Chelsea
Known for stylish boutiques and fancy eateries, Chelsea lets you indulge in some of the finer things London has to offer. Shop for high-end fashion, dine at one of the city’s best restaurants, or waltz inside a nostalgic pub for a drink. Chelsea is more than just its classy establishments as it’s also a happening spot for sports and partying.
Chelsea is a large district in South West London, but there are several tube and railway stations in the surrounding neighborhoods. If you need to drop off bags once you reach the area, Bounce has reliable luggage storage locations near Chelsea to secure your things.
- Go for a stroll down King’s Road, one of London’s poshest shopping areas
- Walk through the enchanting Chelsea Physic Garden that was first opened in the 17th century
- Learn about British military history by visiting the National Army Museum
- Attend a Chelsea F.C. match at the legendary Stamford Bridge
- Head to Under the Bridge for an exciting night of live music
- Witness incredible performing arts talents at the Royal Court Theatre
- Admire the lovely views of the River Thames when crossing the Albert Bridge
- Visit St. Luke’s & Christ Church, the place where acclaimed Victorian author Charles Dickens was married
- Have a five-star meal at world-famous chef Gordon Ramsay’s flagship restaurant
Transit options in Chelsea
- London Underground via the Sloane Square, South Kensington, Gloucester Road, or Fulham Broadway tube stations
- London Bus via the Sloane Street, Lower Sloane Street, Duke of York Square, Pont Street, Draycott Place, Carlyle Square Chelsea, Old Church Street Chelsea, Beaufort Street Kings Road, Fulham Road Beaufort Street, Cheyne Walk, Hortensia Road, or Edith Grove Worlds End bus stops (other stops available)
- Cruise the River Thames from other areas of London such as Westminster, the City, and Canary Wharf to disembark at Chelsea’s Cadogan Pier
Luggage storage in Chelsea
Chelsea isn’t the most compact district, and you’ll spend plenty of time walking to intriguing shops and restaurants. Don’t waste effort dragging heavy bags everywhere – drop them off at one of Bounce’s storage locations near Chelsea.
You don’t want anything slowing you down, and our convenient drop-off sites make it easy and stress-free during your visit. Whenever you’re finished sightseeing, our Bounce partners will have your belongings ready to send you off to your next destination.
Attractions and Activities near Chelsea
- Royal Hospital Chelsea: Although a retirement home may not rank highly as a tourist attraction elsewhere, the Royal Hospital Chelsea is no ordinary facility. Known as Chelsea Pensioners, the residents here all served in the British Army and can often be spotted wearing their bright scarlet coats.
Members of the veteran community eligible to reside at the facility must be 65 years or older who encounter the possibility of being alone during their elderly years. Around 300 military veterans live at the estate, and guided tours show off the extravagant features of the property. Some of the tour's highlights include The Great Hall, Chapel, and museum. The facility hosts numerous annual events such as summer concerts and the beloved Chelsea Flower Show. Individual visitors can also explore the stately residence, but groups must be less than 10 individuals. - Battersea Park: From Chelsea, walk across the Albert Bridge to this beautiful urban park situated on the riverfront. Battersea Park is a 200-acre recreational area that features gardens, cycling, boating, and even has a Buddhist Pagoda overlooking the River Thames.
First opened in 1858, the park formerly boasted the Battersea Fun Fair and entertained guests with thrill rides and quirky attractions. The theme park closed in the 1970s and transformed into Evolution London. While Evolution hosts a myriad of exhibitions and parties, the nearby Battersea Park Children’s Zoo introduces youngsters to small animals.
Battersea Park also includes a well-equipped sporting complex, art gallery, a series of radiant gardens, and charming cafés. The boating lake remains one of the park’s popular outings due to the scenic views and family-friendly atmosphere. - Saatchi Gallery: The Saatchi Gallery has a young history in London, but the venue continues to be a stepping stone for up-and-coming contemporary artists. Founder Charles Saatchi revealed his collection to the public in 1985 and remains unafraid to display the work of rising artists. The museum features some of London’s most visited exhibitions, and thousands of schools organize field trips here.
Many of the rolling exhibits have garnered much praise, with the most recent being the display of King Tutankhamun’s treasures. Visitors could also walk through a virtual reality experience of the pharaoh’s tomb to highlight the intricacies of Ancient Egypt’s burial rituals.
Other past exhibitions hosted by the Saatchi Gallery have featured The Rolling Stones, Berenice Sydney, and Philip Colbert.
