Kensington has long been connected with the horseracing industry. For many years, a rival racecourse to Randwick's operated at Kensington where the University of NSW stands.
Kensington became a residential area in the inter-war period.
The dominant architectural style is the red-brick bungalow. If it's space you're after, then this is the suburb for you. Take your pick from fully-renovated family homes set on large leafy blocks. Young professionals will also feel at home in the area, with contemporary apartments in the Raleigh Park offering views of the city skyline.
Something of an institution in the area is the 'you-name-it-we-sell it' Peter's of Kensington (a place best avoided at sale time).There's also a number of retail outlet stores including babywear, lingerie, and haberdashery shops. There's somewhere to buy your morning paper and a litre of milk on the way home from work as well.
An important sporting activity in the area is golf, either at the nearby Australian Golf Club or at Moore Park Golf Course. A day at the races is also a must-do, with Randwick Racecourse a short walk away. You're also a hop, jump and a step away from Centennial Park, Kensington Rotary Reserve and Kensington Park.
Kensington is approximately 6km from the CBD. It's well served by bus with regular services to the city as well as other nearby destinations.
The University of NSW campus lies in Kensington, while the national Institute of Dramatic Art across the road was the breeding ground for such stars as Nicole Kidman and Mel Gibson.
Anzac Parade cuts through the middle of the suburb, but it does have some highlights, including one of Sydney's most eccentric eateries, the kitsch Grotta Capri Seafood Restaurant, and an enclave of some of Sydney's finest Indonesian, Chinese and Malaysian restaurants.
Kensington Public School is the local state school. Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College and Our Lady of the Rosary Primary and Sydney Boys' and Girls' High Schools are also in the area. The University of NSW and Sydney Institute of Technology, Randwick are also close by.