Ashbourne’s prime location near Hyde Park puts students within easy reach of top UK universities, including UCL, which is the most popular destination for our graduates over the past ten years.
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Ashbourne is based in the heart of Kensington, one of London’s most vibrant and well-connected areas. Surrounded by beautiful parks, world-class museums, inspiring galleries, bustling cafés, and excellent transport links, our location offers students the perfect balance between academic focus and the excitement of city life. London is an amazing city with so much to offer, and here in Kensington, that richness is right on our doorstep. Whether you’re exploring local culture, enjoying green spaces, or grabbing lunch with friends, everything you need is just a short walk from our doors.
Ashbourne is just a few minutes’ walk from Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most famous parks. Stretching from Kensington to Marble Arch, it’s home to Kensington Palace, the Royal Albert Memorial, the Serpentine Lake, and wide open lawns perfect for walks, picnics, or relaxing between lessons. It’s also a great place for running or cycling, with miles of paths to explore.
Nearby Holland Park offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere alongside a variety of sports facilities, including tennis courts, jogging paths, cricket nets, golf practice nets, netball courts, and an outdoor gym. It’s also home to the stunning Kyoto Garden, a traditional Japanese-style garden that’s ideal for a calming study break.
Our Kensington location means students have some of London’s most celebrated cultural landmarks within easy reach, and, best of all, entry to most major museums and galleries is free for students. The Natural History Museum is packed with fascinating exhibits, from towering dinosaur skeletons to dazzling gems, making it a favourite for science enthusiasts. The Science Museum offers interactive galleries and cutting-edge technology displays, perfect for sparking curiosity and creativity.
For art and design lovers, the Victoria and Albert Museum’s world-class collections provide endless inspiration, while nearby galleries showcase everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary works. The Royal Albert Hall, just a short walk away, hosts world-famous concerts, orchestral performances, film screenings with live scores, and special events throughout the year. Students can also easily access London’s incredible theatre scene, from Shakespeare’s Globe to modern West End productions. And for larger-scale performances, the O2 Arena in Greenwich offers everything from international music tours and sporting events to comedy shows and immersive exhibitions.
Situated right on High Street Kensington, Ashbourne students are surrounded by a wide range of cafés, restaurants, and shops. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee before class, a healthy lunch option, or a sit-down meal with friends, there’s something for every taste.
Local favourites include Whole Foods Market for fresh, healthy meals and snacks; Pret a Manger and Joe & The Juice for quick grab-and-go options; Ole & Steen for Danish pastries; and The Ivy Kensington Brasserie for something a little more special. International flavours are also within easy reach, from Japanese ramen at Bone Daddies, to Italian pizzas at Franco Manca, to Indian street food at Dishoom. Many spots offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it easy for everyone to find something they enjoy.
Shops range from fashion and lifestyle brands to bookshops and stationery stores, making it easy to pick up essentials or browse between lessons. Many local cafés also offer free Wi-Fi and quiet seating areas, perfect for off-campus study sessions.
Kensington is also home to some of the UK’s most prestigious higher education institutions, including Imperial College London, whose main campus is just minutes from Ashbourne. Being so close to top universities creates a stimulating academic atmosphere and offers students an inspiring glimpse into the next stage of their educational journey.
Getting around London from Ashbourne couldn’t be easier. High Street Kensington Station is just a few minutes’ walk away, offering quick Underground connections via the Circle and District lines. This puts many parts of the city within 20–30 minutes’ travel time.
A wide range of bus routes also pass through the area, giving students plenty of options for commuting or exploring London. In addition, Notting Hill Gate and Gloucester Road stations are nearby, providing further connections to the Central and Piccadilly lines for even greater flexibility, including easy access to destinations like the O2 Arena for major events.