How did Notting Hill get it’s name?
When you hear “Notting Hill,” you probably think of colorful townhouses, charming markets, and perhaps Hugh Grant stammering his way through a bookshop. But how did this iconic area in West London get its intriguing name? Notting Hill’s name has layers of history—and maybe even a touch of mystery—that make it as fascinating as the neighborhood itself. Let’s dive into the origins of Notting Hill’s name and explore the tales that make it one of London’s most storied neighborhoods.
A Hill, or Not?
At first glance, the “hill” part of Notting Hill makes sense. The neighborhood does sit on a slight rise above the surrounding areas, though it’s hardly a mountain. The “Notting” part, though, has stumped historians for centuries. Theories about its meaning range from historical Anglo-Saxon connections to the possibility of it being named after a legendary hill that once existed (though some say it might’ve been more of a bump than a hill).
One popular theory is that the name originated from the Saxon word “Knotting,” or “Cnotta’s Hill.” “Cnotta” might have referred to a local Saxon chieftain whose tribe settled in the area. Over time, it’s thought that “Knotting Hill” morphed into “Notting Hill.” While there isn’t a ton of evidence to back this up, it’s easy to imagine some ancient leader proudly surveying his land from a hilltop—no doubt unaware of the coffee shops and movie-set romance scenes that would one day surround his hill.
A Village with Medieval Roots
Notting Hill didn’t always have the glitz and glamour it’s known for today. In fact, for most of its history, it was just a tiny rural village on the outskirts of London. By the time the medieval period rolled around, the area was mainly open fields, pastures, and winding footpaths. Back then, it was known as “Knottynghull” in old records, another nod to the Saxon “Cnotta” theory.
As London grew and expanded, Notting Hill evolved from a farming community to a bustling suburb. By the 18th century, the area’s growing popularity meant that “Notting Hill” was beginning to take on its modern form, but its name was still keeping people guessing.
A Nod to Knights?
Another theory suggests that Notting Hill’s name might have had a medieval connection to knights and noblemen. The Knights Templar, an ancient order of warrior monks, were granted land around London in the 12th century, and they may have had a presence in what is now Notting Hill. Some speculate that “Notting” could be a loose reference to these knights or to a noble family that once owned the land.
However, this idea falls into the “maybe but probably not” category, as no records directly link the Templars to Notting Hill. Still, it’s a fun theory to consider, especially given the romanticized aura of chivalry and mystery surrounding both knights and the neighborhood itself.
The “Hill” That Grew Up
By the early 19th century, Notting Hill was known more for its sprawling market gardens and brickfields than anything else. In those days, the “hill” part of the name wasn’t exactly accurate, since the neighborhood was still rather flat, with much of the land used for farming or as open fields. But as London’s population boomed, these fields quickly turned into streets, shops, and homes.
During this time, Notting Hill was hardly the fashionable neighborhood we know today; it was an industrial, working-class area with a mix of potteries, kilns, and brick-making businesses. In fact, one stretch of land in Notting Hill was even known as “The Potteries and Piggeries,” a name that paints quite a different picture than the Notting Hill of today!
From Farms to Film Fame
As the 20th century rolled around, Notting Hill’s transformation accelerated. With beautiful terraced houses and bohemian flair, the neighborhood began to attract artists, writers, and young professionals. By the 1950s, Notting Hill had become known for its vibrant Caribbean community, leading to the birth of the Notting Hill Carnival, one of the biggest and most colorful street festivals in Europe.
Then, in 1999, a certain movie starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts cemented Notting Hill as a global icon of British charm and romance. The film’s success turned Notting Hill into a tourist magnet, with fans flocking to see Portobello Road, the famous blue door, and of course, the fictional bookstore. This newfound fame elevated Notting Hill’s mystique, making it one of London’s most desirable neighborhoods and ensuring its name would be known worldwide.
So, What’s in a Name?
While we may never know the exact origin of “Notting Hill,” the theories behind it—from Saxon chiefs to noble knights—add to its charm. It’s a name that evolved over time, mirroring the growth and transformation of the neighborhood itself. Whether it’s “Cnotta’s Hill,” a knight’s abode, or simply an old Saxon word that stuck, “Notting Hill” is as layered as the place it represents.
So, next time you find yourself wandering through Portobello Market or admiring the pastel-colored houses, remember that Notting Hill’s name has centuries of history behind it. And who knows? Maybe somewhere beneath the cobblestones, an ancient Saxon chief named Cnotta is quietly enjoying the evolution of his humble hill into one of the world’s most iconic neighbourhoods.