It was characterised by numerous independent stores, restaurants, pubs and cafes, and was earning a reputation as a "celebrity haunt-meets-Nappy Valley."

In 2009, Chamberlayne Road in Kensal Rise was named the "hippest street in Europe" by ''Vogue'' magazine. Luxury goods maker Mulberry named its handbag Kensal and launched an advertising campaign with Cara Delevingne. The area is characterised by numerous independent