Walking through the grand entrance of The Bloomsbury Hotel in London, I was struck by its elegance. The intricate stone carvings, ironwork, and cascading ivy made it a true architectural gem. My family, still sporting our travel-weary attire, felt a touch out of place. But as the friendly bellman greeted us and whisked away our luggage, I realized that stylish doesn’t have to mean snobbish. This warm welcome was just the first hint of the delightful stay that awaited us.
This iconic hotel, known as London’s “Grand Dame,” has a reputation for chic design and beautiful renovations, but can it truly be family-friendly? The answer, as I discovered, is a resounding yes. Stepping into our room, my daughter let out a squeal of delight. A charming assortment of fruit, treats, and a cuddly teddy bear sporting a Bloomsbury sweater awaited her, a perfect welcome to the city. This blend of elegant furnishings (think marble bathrooms and plush furniture) and thoughtful touches made our temporary home feel incredibly welcoming for our family.
A Prime Location for Exploring London
The Bloomsbury Hotel’s location is unbeatable for families. Just a short walk from restaurants and attractions like Covent Garden and the British Museum, it offers easy access to the best of London. The nearby train lines provide quick transportation to any corner of the city, and the Eurostar station is a mere minutes’ ride away, making it a fantastic choice for families combining trips to Paris and London.
Although situated in a bustling area, the hotel entrance is tucked away on a charming side street, offering a peaceful check-in experience. However, be warned, the chic boutiques in the neighborhood can be tempting and put a dent in your family budget.
A Stylish and Family-Focused Stay
The Bloomsbury Hotel’s recent top-to-bottom renovation of the 1930s building pays homage to its historical roots while offering a fresh and modern experience. The rooms are beautifully appointed with luxurious bedding, vibrant colors, and spacious layouts, not to mention heated marble floors in the bathrooms. Despite the standard rooms being slightly smaller, they never felt cramped.
The hotel goes beyond the usual 5-star amenities to cater to families with children. While fluffy bathrobes and deluxe toiletries for kids are commonplace, The Bloomsbury truly shines with its unique touches. Harry Potter fans might be delighted with a magical surprise in their room, while younger children can enjoy a “campout” experience in a tepee setup within the studio suites. A special treat awaits young guests: a selection of their favorite magazines, along with a comforting turndown service with milk and cookies.
The Bloomsbury Hotel doesn’t disappoint when it comes to added conveniences for families. Complimentary cribs and fee-based rollaway beds are available, as are DVD players and a selection of children’s DVDs. Guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi in rooms and public areas, luxury car service, a 24-hour fitness center, and much more.
Dining Options for Every Taste
The Bloomsbury Hotel offers a range of dining options to satisfy every palate. Choose from the stylish Bloomsbury Club Bar & Dining Room or the charming Dalloway Lounge and Dalloway Terrace, both named after the famous Virginia Woolf character and open year-round. We particularly enjoyed our meal at the Dalloway Terrace, surrounded by a breathtaking display of flowers that created an oasis in the heart of the city. For families with young children, meals for those under 5 are complimentary before 7 pm with the purchase of an adult meal.
Parents can enjoy a little relaxation while the kids are tucked away. The Coral Room Bar provides a sophisticated retreat for adults, offering handcrafted cocktails and a cozy ambiance. As a mother of teenagers, I appreciated the opportunity to say goodnight to my children and then unwind with a delicious drink at the end of a busy day exploring London.
The Bloomsbury Hotel offers a truly unforgettable experience for families looking for a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of London. With its thoughtful amenities, prime location, and friendly staff, it’s the perfect base for exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Don’t forget to check out Ciao Bambino for more kid-friendly accommodations and activities in London. And remember to browse our articles on the best London parks and playgrounds, insider tips for exploring the city with kids, and the top London museums for families.
The Bloomsbury Hotel provided a media stay for us to review the property for families. As always, our opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by Amy Annis except where noted.
Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.
