The Franklin is a charming hotel that feels like it’s straight out of a Mary Poppins movie. Nestled in a row of red-brick townhouses in South Kensington, it exudes elegance. Inside, you’ll find a Michelin-starred restaurant, Alfredo Russo’s Franklin Restaurant, a glamorous Gatsby-style bar, and a cozy tearoom. After spending the night in one of their beautifully appointed rooms, complete with vintage prints, four-poster beds, and old-fashioned reading lamps, you can easily reach the world-famous museums nearby. The Franklin is a perfect blend of history and luxury, offering a unique experience for those who appreciate classic elegance.
A Quirky Oasis: The Ampersand
The Ampersand is a playful hotel that embraces the unexpected. With a mix of contrasting fabrics, mismatched furniture, soft upholstery in bold colours, and curvy lines, this hotel offers a unique visual experience. The Kensington museums are just a short walk away, and rooms are filled with curated reading materials that will inspire you for your museum visits. Enjoy the best rooms with London skyline views and luxurious roll-top baths. Some even feature a second TV in the bathroom! For a casual dining experience, head to the charming Apero brasserie, located in the arches beneath the hotel, and enjoy fresh Mediterranean flavours.
Regal Elegance at The Kensington
The Kensington is a grand hotel housed in a stunning Regency townhouse. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be enveloped in the luxurious ambiance of London. This hotel offers a quintessential high-tea and four-poster-bed experience, complete with bold floral prints, sound-absorbing upholstery, and dazzling chandeliers. The most luxurious rooms and suites boast a Chinoiserie style, setting the stage for a trip to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). With its refined atmosphere and elegant décor, The Kensington provides a truly regal experience.
Modern Art Deco Charm: The Resident
The Resident, housed in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse, offers a unique alternative to the Victorian style that dominates Kensington. This hotel embraces a stylish Art Deco theme with matching wooden desks, bedsteads, and picture frames. It’s the perfect place for a visiting botanist studying at the Natural History Museum. Some rooms even offer small terraces with breathtaking views of Kensington. With its sophisticated design and charming atmosphere, The Resident is a hidden gem in South Kensington.
A Step Back in Time at The Gore
Located near the Science Museum, Hyde Park, and the Royal Geographical Society, The Gore is a historic hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1892. The cozy, wood-lined bar feels as if it hasn’t changed a bit since it opened, and the unique rooms offer an almost theatrical ambiance. Featuring stained glass, gilded mirrors, flowing drapes, and extravagant antique bed frames, The Gore transports you to a bygone era. It’s a hotel that truly captures the spirit of English stately homes.
Tranquility in the City: Meliá
The Meliá offers a calming escape from the bustle of Kensington. The bedrooms feature a serene, single-tone theme that extends from the beds to the drapes and furniture. The result is an understated and peaceful atmosphere that’s a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located just two streets west of the Natural History Museum and a short walk from Gloucester Road Tube station, the Meliá is perfect for exploring London.
Italian Glamour in London: The Baglioni
The Baglioni, situated near Hyde Park, boasts an undeniable Italian flair. From the stucco trim on the facade to the wood-floored rooms filled with designer furniture, the hotel exudes Italian elegance. Touches of London, such as thick Regency stripes, open fireplaces, and terraces overlooking Hyde Park, add a unique blend of international style. This hotel is ideal for those who seek a glamorous escape, whether it’s a film star seeking anonymity or a discerning traveler looking for a touch of luxury.
Romantic Retreat: Egerton House
Egerton House is a charming boutique hotel just a short stroll from Harrods and the Victoria and Albert Museum. This intimate hotel features heirloom furniture and intricate patterns that seem to dance from the bedspreads to the walls. Each room boasts a unique design theme. The best rooms offer peaceful garden views that you can enjoy wrapped in luxurious Belgian linen. Egerton House provides a quiet and romantic escape, perfect for a relaxing getaway in the heart of London.
