Embrace a Low-Carbon Lifestyle in Kensington and London

Living or travelling in London does not mean compromising on sustainability. Kensington is one of the city’s greenest, most walkable neighbourhoods, offering countless ways to enjoy eco-friendly activities, reduce your carbon footprint and discover the city in a more mindful way. From low carbon transport options to nature filled parks, sustainable attractions and community initiatives, this guide highlights the best eco-friendly things to do in Kensington and across London. 

Low carbon activities to enjoy in Kensington and London 

Choosing greener experiences in London is easy thanks to its extensive public transport network, large parks and growing number of sustainability initiatives. These activities offer a simple way to stay active, connect with nature and support eco conscious organisations.

Walk through Kensington’s parks and garden squares

Walking is one of the simplest and most enjoyable low carbon activities in London. Kensington is surrounded by peaceful parks, garden squares and landscaped paths that make it easy to explore on foot. 

Popular walking spots include: 

• Kensington Gardens – quiet paths, tree lined routes and the Italian Gardens 
• Hyde Park – ideal for long walks around the Serpentine 
• Holland Park – home to woodland trails and the Kyoto Garden 
• The Thames Path (a short connection away) – scenic riverside walking for miles 

Walking in London reduces emissions and allows you to experience the city at a slower pace.

Cycle Kensington’s green routes

Cycling is one of the best eco-friendly things to do in London, and Kensington offers easy access to scenic bike paths through the Royal Parks and beyond. You can cycle through Hyde Park, along Exhibition Road or down to the Thames. 

If you do not have a bike, Santander Cycles docking stations are available throughout Kensington. 

Try outdoor yoga and fitness in the Royal Parks

Many local parks host outdoor yoga, Pilates and wellness sessions throughout the year. These low impact, low carbon activities offer a natural way to unwind, restore balance and enjoy fresh air in the heart of London. 

Classes often take place in: 

• Hyde Park
• Kensington Gardens 
• Holland Park 

Local community groups and Royal Parks listings offer up to date schedules.

Row or paddle on the Serpentine

For a relaxing, low carbon activity, try rowing or pedal boating on the Serpentine in Hyde Park. It is a peaceful way to enjoy nature without creating emissions, especially during warmer months.

Discover eco-friendly gyms and studios

Some London fitness spaces are working toward greener operations by reducing energy use, offering zero waste products or using human powered equipment. Popular sustainable gyms across London often include options for low carbon workouts and eco conscious classes.

Explore Kensington’s cultural institutions sustainably

Many of Kensington’s world class museums lead environmental and sustainability initiatives, making them ideal for low carbon days out. 

• The Natural History Museum – active sustainability programmes and climate exhibitions 
• The Science Museum – energy and climate focused galleries 
• The V&A Museum – art and design exhibitions with a focus on reuse and heritage 

All three museums are free to enter, making them excellent eco friendly, low cost activities.

Visit local farmers’ markets and zero waste stores 

Supporting local producers and reducing packaging waste are key parts of low carbon living. In and around Kensington you will find: 

• Notting Hill’s farmers’ market (Saturday mornings) 
• Zero waste refill shops (various independent stores nearby) 
• Organic grocers offering seasonal produce 

These markets champion sustainable farming and help reduce food miles.

Take low carbon transport across London

Using public transport is one of the most effective ways to lower your carbon footprint in the city. The Underground, buses and Overground make it simple to explore without a car. 

Explore hidden green corners and eco- friendly spots 

Kensington and its surrounding areas are full of small, often overlooked green escapes and sustainable spaces, including: 

• Kensington Roof Gardens (when open for public events) 
• Chelsea Physic Garden – one of London’s oldest botanic gardens 
• Little Venice – peaceful canal walks reachable via Paddington 
• Kyoto Garden in Holland Park – a tranquil Japanese style garden 

These hidden gems offer slower, nature focused experiences away from busy streets. 

Join community sustainability initiatives 

Local organisations and community groups regularly host sustainability workshops, nature walks, volunteer sessions, talks and eco-friendly events across Kensington and nearby areas. These activities encourage residents and visitors to learn more about low carbon living while contributing positively to the community.

Stay at Fraser Suites Queens Gate London 

Fraser Suites Queens Gate is ideally located for exploring Kensington’s eco-friendly attractions. The property offers the comfort and flexibility of spacious serviced apartments while being just a short walk from parks, museums and public transport links. Staying in the heart of Kensington means you can explore much of the city on foot, reducing travel emissions and enjoying a calmer, greener urban experience. 

At Fraser Suites Queen’s Gate, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a commitment we live by every day. In 2025, we proudly earned the Green Tourism GOLD Award, a recognition of our ongoing efforts to reduce waste, champion eco-friendly operations, and engage with our community in meaningful ways.

Building on that achievement, we launched our Greener Guest Rewards program - and the response has been incredible as we introduce simple, fun initiatives that help reduce water, energy, and chemical use across the hotel, making every stay a little greener.

Together, the award and the program show that sustainability can be both impactful and enjoyable. And this is just the beginning - we’re committed to growing these efforts for years to come, because going green is a journey we take with our guests.

Experience eco-friendly London

Kensington’s blend of green parks, cultural institutions and sustainable initiatives makes it one of London’s best neighbourhoods for low carbon living. Whether you prefer outdoor activities, mindful movement, cultural exploration or hidden green spots, the area offers countless eco-friendly things to do. Start planning your stay and discover a more sustainable way to explore London.

Low-carbon lifestyle FAQs  

Is Kensington a good area for low-carbon living? 

Yes. Kensington is one of London’s greenest districts, with easy access to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Holland Park, museums within walking distance and excellent public transport, making it simple to reduce your carbon footprint. 

Where can I find sustainable places to shop in London?

Farmers’ markets, refill stores, second-hand shops and organic grocers can be found throughout West London. In and around Kensington, markets such as Notting Hill Farmers’ Market offer seasonal produce and reduce packaging waste.

Can visitors enjoy low-carbon activities without leaving central London?

Absolutely. Central London offers outdoor activities, walking routes, cycling paths, boating on the Serpentine, cultural attractions and green spaces within a short distance of one another, making it easy to enjoy a low-carbon day out.