Looking back at RBKC 45 years on

The neoclassical façade of Chelsea Old Town Hall dates back to 1907. It was the centre of local government until 1965, when Chelsea was merged with Kensington to form a new borough. A few years after the original photograph was taken, it became the main Chelsea branch library and by 1994 was home to the Chelsea Art Society too. Internally refurbished in 2019, the building is still used a library, as well as a popular wedding venue and events space.

This view from Sloane Square looks west along the King’s Road. Peter Jones stands in the foreground, having occupied the site since 1877. This building was constructed between 1932 and 1936, featuring the first modern-movement use of the glass curtain wall in Britain. It was refurbished in 2004, as well as being Grade II* listed, and remains a much-loved Chelsea landmark. Opposite is the entrance to Duke of York Square, which was transformed a few years earlier into a popular shopping and dining destination.

The original market on Portobello Road dates back to the nineteenth century. Since the Second World War it has attracted antiques dealers, and on weekends now hosts the largest antiques market in the UK. This photograph was taken midway along the street, looking south, with the cupola of St Nicholas Church in the background. It’s still lined with shops – the Midland Bank now serves Fish & Chips – while some of the Victorian houses have been given extensions and painted bright colours.

St Luke’s Church was built in 1819, one of the earliest Gothic Revival churches in London. Constructed from Bath stone, it was inspired by the Perpendicular architecture of the late Middle Ages. The church is surrounded by beautiful gardens, creating the feel of village green or cathedral close. Its northern flank now features a five-a-side pitch with a few more planted trees, but otherwise the scene has changed little over time.

This photograph looks east from the Notting Hill side of Westbourne Grove. Over the past few decades, this neighbourhood has become increasingly desirable, its terraces now painted bright colours and lined with independent boutiques and restaurants. The distant Westbourne Grove Church was renovated in 2004, with new spires added to the steeples. Meanwhile, the drinking fountain and railings have been replaced with a metal structure containing a florist.