Our Review Of The Cartier Exhibition And The K Bar Kensington: Iconic Jewellery With Gem-Themed Cocktails

As someone who’s known for being drawn to shiny things (so much so that I’ve been called a magpie), you can only imagine my delight when a Cartier exhibition was announced at The V&A Museum. But what made it even better? The K Bar at The Kensington hotel has curated a stunning, luxe new cocktail menu, all themed around jewels… I just had to drop by to find out more.

The parallels between The Kensington hotel bar and Cartier's tutti frutti-coloured treasures were clear to see.

DesignMyNight Review Of The K Bar at The Kensington And The Cartier Exhibition

We can all agree that the V&A is an actual London legend, and for good reason. But this year, excitement reached fever pitch when Cartier’s first major UK showcase in almost 30 years landed at the capital’s famous museum. Setting you back a reasonable £27 for weekday tickets (£29 for Saturday to Sunday), this exhibition gave us the chance to browse over 350 pieces. Self-guided through a well-thought-out route paired with moving graphics, vintage movies and sounds, it offered a truly immersive experience. We enjoyed the fact that everything was broken down by region or influence, including objects sourced from private collections (lucky people) right through to royalty, allowing us to fully understand the impact Cartier had around the world.

Thought Cartier was all about jewellery? Think again, as we also spotted Egyptian-style mother of pearl clocks and 1920s feathered headdresses (plus detailed sketches), alongside solid gold presentation books, embroidered clutch bags and gorgeous vanity cases. I'm eager not to spoil it and give everything away (you’ll just have to see for yourself) but other than the sparkly tiaras made with pear-shaped droplets, my favourites include the remarkably realistic snake necklace, which doubled up as an ornament. Crafted in 1968 with 2,473 diamonds and boasting the tones of the Mexican flag, this 57cm long reptile was quite a sight. My friend adored the Burmese ruby-encrusted statement necklace, worn by socialite Gloria Guinness in 1966, and Rihanna’s notable W magazine cover which brought everything right up to the current day.  

The interiors at The K Bar at The Kensington hotel blended vintage glam and timeless elegance. 

But all this stargazing is thirsty work. The ideal remedy? The K Bar The Kensington, a short 15-minute hop from the Victoria and Albert museum, plus close to South Kensington tube station. This five-star hotel exuded class from the get-go, but once past the huge golden Art Deco doors, you’re greeted with an intimate, lounge-style space. Dark wooden panels cover the walls, alongside antique books and retro artwork. But our standout feature proved to be the statement ring-shaped chandeliers that hung from the ceiling; it genuinely looked like it was made out of diamonds. Low-lit table-top lamps gave things a cosy feel, while the mirrored tables, royal blue velvet seats and leather finishing touches would have made Gatsby proud.

We were here to sample the new Hidden Gems cocktail offering, in honour of Cartier (even the menu appeared to be carved like a precious stone). Meticulously designed by our host Jonatan, each of the drinks had a French name in honour of the luxury brand. Starting off with Diamant (£35); a smooth, crystal clear number blending premium Beluga Gold Line Vodka with an unusual Champagne cordial (without bubbles). Even though this was boozy, you could taste the quality of the ingredients as it didn’t make the hairs stand on end. We’re also obsessed over the diamond-shaped ice cube, not gonna lie.

Next up came Amethyst (£14), an alcohol-free tipple that smacks the lips with flavour. The theatrical element was particularly fun, where the yellow hue transforms into lilac once the ‘potion’ was poured into the glass. Interestingly, and proving the craftsmanship, this tipple was well balanced, combining Everleaf Mountain, butterfly pea flower tea, citrus and white peach soda. It was fruity but not too sweet, something that can be difficult with non-alcoholic cocktails. 

My date and I loved meandering through Cartier at the V&A Museum London, ending with glistening cocktails.

While we soaked up the booze with a duo of bar snacks - zesty pardon peppers (£9) and perfectly seasoned pan con tomate (£13) - the next round of drinks arrived. Our Émeraude (£18) was a bold, aquamarine-coloured sip, fusing Irish Gin, soda and citrus; essentially a more refined Collins cocktail. I confess to never having tried pandan before, but its fragrant leaves not only gave a unique aftertaste but also helped to create this vivid shade. Finally, Rubis (£18), inspired by enchanted Colombian gemstones, wowed in more ways than one. Similar to a negroni but with notes of mango, and decorated with orange peel, my favourite drink of the night was bitter, sweet but not too overpowering. Simply perfect.

We could have stayed for much longer, as The K Bar’s reflections concept is worthy of another look, particularly the Stravaganza and Pangea cocktails. Playfully revealed through a mirror, this interactive menu took Adrian and bar manager Jonatan ten months to develop. Next time, perhaps.  

The K Bar at The Kensington And Cartier Exhibition Review: Overall

The Cartier exhibition London was a fascinating deep dive into the influential design house, and a must on your agendas. Not only is the extraordinary skill on show something to be admired, but we loved seeing the lasting legacy on architecture and modern-day culture. It closes on Sunday 16th November 2025, so you’d better be quick. For the ultimate finale to your wholesome day out? Make a beeline for The K Bar at The Kensington; not only do the jewellery box-like surrounds make you gawp in wonder but the refined yet glitzy drinks really are a perfect match.    

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