Kensington and Westminster represent wealth and privilege, yet their northern edges tell a different story. Here poverty and poor conditions have stood in contrast to the affluence just a few miles south. This tour explores these working class areas through a housing lens. It considers commercial endeavour, the ideals of modernism, community activism and the ongoing search for housing solutions.

A walking tour of the residential areas of Kensal House. Visit our Grade II* listed housing estate at the top of Ladbroke Grove. Built by Maxwell Fry in 1937 it is the first example of modernist housing for working class people in the UK. Unrecognised Co Design by Elizabeth Denby, to create an 'urban village' around the footprint of Gasworks, with innovative community spaces

Maxwell Fry, 1937

Kensal House, designed in the 1930s by Maxwell Fry and Elizabeth Denby, is a landmark in social housing. Central to this Grade-II* listed building is the community room, fostering social interaction among residents. Today, this space hosts SPID, a youth theatre that advocates housing justice through co-created art. After 5 years of refurbishment, SPID is ready to re-open its door to the community.

Maxwell Fry, 1937

Unpack my story of North Kensington’s rich history on this guided walk. My family was one of the first families to move into the Brutalist-style Trellick Tower. From rural roots to industrial hub, class divides to cultural revolution – discover hidden stories, iconic sites, and how migration and activism shaped a vibrant, ever-changing community like no other: my childhood playground.