Kensington Gardens

Image: © Simon Carey Taken: 25 Nov 2009

Part of the North Laine shopping area that runs from North Street to Trafalgar Street. Viewed from the balcony of Kensingtons cafe the higher vantage point gives some idea of how the street changed from its original residential character to a commercial one. The houses themselves originally had small gardens but these were lost as many added extensions at the front to accommodate a shop. The street served the local community from the 19th century onwards but has gradually changed over the years as it focussed more on lifestyle. The first Body Shop opened down here in the 1970s. The Christmas lights are up which partially obscures the view of the street below whilst the tower block in the distance is part of City College with the roof of St Bartholomew church to the left.

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