The Kensington, West London
Boulevard elegance in the heart of London’s most desirable neighbourhood
Stately and imposing, The Kensington lives up to its prime location across from Gloucester Road in South Kensington. Think black-and-white marble floors, gilded moldings, and big, fresh flower arrangements. You can't help but feel important when you're here.
Something of an understated favourite of the London hotel scene but, to those who have visited, it is truly one of the warmest and most unobtrusively charming destinations to stay in the city, fusing classic furnishings with warm British hospitality. The property is a classic Victorian property, only a stone-throw away from the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and the V&A. The Kensington has all the cachet of London’s better-known five-star hotels, but it feels less formal—you could nip down to the lobby in your robe and slippers without raising too many eyebrows. It’s also got (whisper it) a tad more personality.
The Room
The first thing I noticed once I walked through the door to our suite is the silence. The room itself is literally noise-cancelling, with the plushest carpet, slate-grey quilted headboard wall, large windows and chic furniture. Acoustics aside, the room feels extremely luxurious, with oriental wallpaper and a glamorous gold-accented minibar with cut crystal glasses.
The hotel has a considerable variety of single rooms, family-sized, and suites. The small, contemporary rooms on the top floors are streamlined and modish; the larger rooms more traditionally and lavishly decorated (claw-foot baths, four-poster beds, the works).
Our studio suite
The welcome wagon - my favourite touch
The bathroom’s pretty swank too, lined in winking gold, white, and marble tile that sweeps up to the edges of a large marble tub and sink. The soaps and shower products are Malin + Goetz. They quickly found their way into my bag.
Dining
The breakfast served either on the terrace or in the Drawing Room each morning features continental classics and a la carte, and is plentiful enough to put you on until mid-afternoon. The restaurant was bound to be a success and the Drawing Room for dinner doesn’t disappoint, doing a nice line in refined classics and proper atmosphere. The K bar is a little gem, with a stunning art-deco 1920’s-esque style bar with oak panelling, gilt mirrors, and gleaming chandeliers.
Breakfast of champions
We opted for a selection of pastries, Eggs Royale and some continental essentials. I found that the dining room is the perfect place to enjoy a lazy breakfast whilst working remotely - which I did.
Grilled Prawns on the Drawing Room’s dinner menu
We enjoyed dinner at the hotel’s Drawing Room, serving classic European favourites alongside an extensive wine list. While the food wasn't earth shattering, I came away feeling really well looked after, as if I'd been wrapped up in a big blanket and given a big hug simultaneously. The prawns and cheesecake for dessert were the standout dishes, and showed that they really know what they're doing in the kitchen. As we left we did wonder why I hadn’t heard of it as a dining destination in Kensington ; lack of amuses? Hotel restaurant? Whatever; it's worth the trip. The hotel’s restaurant is best known for their afternoon tea, which I will definitely be returning for.
Enjoying some bubbly at the K Bar
Thoughts
The service is truly exceptional, and you'll probably remember your interactions with hotel staff above anything else. I was very impressed by the personable touches to our stay, from arriving to a tray of strawberries and chocolate truffles, to having a rose handed to be my the charming waiter after dinner. When we arrived into our suite after our night cap in the bar, our curtains had been drawn, slippers laid out, and a flask of hot water with rosehip tea was waiting for us. I loved this touch. Ultimately, what sets most luxury hotels apart is the service, and here, you'll find it's better than anywhere.
