Ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer scale of London? You’re not alone. We often find ourselves focusing on one specific area, seeking out a “home from home” to alleviate the pressure of constant travel. This strategy has worked wonders in the South Bank and near Hyde Park, leaving us feeling more relaxed and less rushed. However, the nagging issue of lugging luggage across London has always been a bit of a bummer. But fear not, dear readers, we’ve discovered a game-changer – King’s Cross station!
During our recent trip, we opted for a different approach: stay where we arrive. We took our usual Peterborough to King’s Cross train and decided to make it our base for the duration. It was a brilliant move, especially considering the transformation of King’s Cross and St Pancras stations. They’ve become incredibly cool spots, and we were thrilled to spend more time exploring the area.
A Welcoming Haven: The Hotel Megaro
We found our home away from home at the Hotel Megaro, just a stone’s throw from the station on Euston Road. Its colorful exterior is easy to spot, and stepping inside feels like entering a haven of warmth and hospitality. The friendly staff are always ready with a smile, and the lobby is transformed into a stylish bar area called ‘minimix’ – perfect for a cocktail upon arrival.
The Megaro, part of the St Pancras Hotels Group, exudes an independent spirit. Its contemporary vibe is scandinavian-inspired, with natural wood and glass adding a touch of elegance to the bedrooms. The hotel’s Megaro Eatery is a great spot for breakfast or brunch, offering tempting options like fluffy pancakes and smashed avocado on sourdough bread. And when the day comes to an end, the basement bar beckons with dimly lit ambiance, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle with a cocktail and the occasional live jazz session.
A Room With a View: Deluxe Double Room at The Megaro
We settled into a deluxe double room on the top floor, offering stunning views of St Pancras and King’s Cross stations. The room was extravagantly spacious, and though some traffic noise was inevitable, it felt much preferable to the sounds of a hotel corridor or the neighbor’s TV.
The luxurious bed, adorned with top-quality linen, was a dream to sleep in. The s-shaped loveseat was perfect for a romantic cuddle, although a bit awkward for watching TV together. Two additional comfortable chairs were situated near the door, and a stylish desk/dressing table completed the room. The bathroom was particularly impressive by London standards, and we enjoyed the unique square bathtub.
Pampered and Connected: Room Amenities at The Megaro
Our room came equipped with a handy espresso machine, serving excellent Italian Illy coffee, along with a fridge stocked with complimentary still and sparkling water. Free WiFi, a flat screen TV, and bathrobes and slippers ensured we had everything we needed. The hotel also offers standard double rooms, family rooms, and nearby apartments, including the funky corner studios designed by artist Henry Chebaane. They even cater to our furry friends with dog-friendly rooms. The prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality of the accommodation.
Food and Entertainment in King’s Cross
King’s Cross boasts a fantastic selection of cafes and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Pancras Square and Granary Square, overlooking Regent’s Canal, are perfect for people-watching. From the German Gymnasium to Dishoom, Kimchee, Caravan, and Tortilla, the choices are endless. You can even grab a quick sandwich at the stations themselves.
A few steps from King’s Cross station on York Way is Franco Manca, a pizzeria we adore. Their simple menu features delicious wood-fired pizzas made with high-quality ingredients, and their prices are very reasonable, ranging from around £5 to £8. Wash it all down with an organic Italian wine, and you have a satisfying early supper.
Free Attractions and Cultural Gems
If you’re seeking free attractions in London, King’s Cross is a treasure trove of options. Right outside the station is the British Library, home to the impressive Newton sculpture in its piazza. Inside, explore the Treasures Gallery, showcasing manuscripts from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales to Captain Cook’s journal. You can even see an original copy of the Magna Carta.
Just a short walk down Euston Road is the Wellcome Collection, a free destination for the “incurably curious”. The collection includes medical antiquities and the incredibly relaxing Reading Room, perfect for settling down with a book.
We recommend a visit to the Grant Museum of Zoology, part of UCL (University College London). This small but fascinating museum is a must-see, especially for children who love anything gruesome. Admire the 68,000 specimens, including skeletons, pickled creatures, and even a purse made from a sheep’s testicle. Entry to this unique museum is also free.
Exploring Beyond King’s Cross
Although we embraced our “King’s Cross vacation”, we couldn’t resist venturing out twice during our stay. We took a quick Tube trip to Leicester Square to see Mary Stuart at the Duke of York’s Theatre. On another day, we travelled to Putney for the University Boat Race. But, for the most part, we enjoyed the convenience and charm of our chosen neighborhood.
King’s Cross is within walking distance of numerous attractions, including the British Museum, Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Camden Market, and Regent’s Park. And for those wanting to explore further afield, King’s Cross is a central hub with easy access to several Underground lines.
A Final Thought
When it was time to head home, the station was just steps away, eliminating the stress of navigating London’s public transport or dealing with traffic. We’d happily return to King’s Cross, embracing the convenience and excitement of staying close to the heart of London. Maybe next time, we’ll even try to find the Harry Potter trolley at Platform 9 3/4 and see if a little magic can whisk us home a little faster.
