Named for the borough in South London, Kensington is a quaint community (pop. 5,000) nestled in the East Bay Hills along Berkeley’s northern border. This unincorporated area is home to many professionals, academics, and families. The intimate neighborhoods include a number of colonials, Tudors, and Spanish-style homes. Kensington’s highly-rated Hilltop Elementary School is perched above a nicely landscaped public park featuring tennis courts, paved walkways, play structures and Golden Gate Bridge views. Kensington shares the junior and senior high schools of neighboring El Cerrito. Clustered around a friendly shopping strip on Arlington Avenue, this main stretch includes the police and fire departments. A second district around Colusa Circle includes Semifreddies Bakery and the Kensington Circus Pub. This English-style pub attracts many families with small children with a coveted “play corner,” and offers an opportunity to hear live music. Along the city’s eastern crest, Tilden Park is a treasure trove of activities for adults and kids alike. Year-round you can enjoy the Animal Farm and Environmental Education Center, the Botanic Gardens and hiking and biking. All summer you can enjoy Lake Anza and the Merry-go-round and Steam Trains. Kensington joins small-town ambiance with wonderful views of San Francisco.
School Directory
Local Portal Site (Kensington is unincorporated)
For more useful links visit our Community page.
Arlington Avenue
