You know what? I’ve walked past this building on Northumberland Avenue probably a hundred times without really noticing it, but once you’re actually staying at Citadines Trafalgar Square, you realize how perfectly tucked away it is. I mean, you’re literally a two-minute walk from all the chaos of Trafalgar Square and the tourist crowds, but the street itself is surprisingly quiet – well, as quiet as central London gets anyway.
The thing about this place is that it’s one of those aparthotels that actually works. I was skeptical at first (you know how some of these hybrid concepts can be a bit rubbish), but honestly, having a proper kitchenette made such a difference. Not that I cooked elaborate meals or anything, but being able to make coffee the way I like it in the morning and store leftovers from Borough Market without guilt? Game changer. The rooms have this clean, modern feel without being sterile – sort of Scandinavian-inspired but warmer. The beds are genuinely comfortable too, which isn’t always a given at this price point in Westminster.
What really won me over was the location’s sweet spot factor. Walk five minutes toward the river and you’re at the South Bank – perfect for morning runs or evening strolls when the crowds thin out. Head the other way and you’re in Covent Garden, though I’d avoid that area on weekends unless you enjoy human sardine experiences. The staff seemed to actually know the neighborhood well, which is rarer than you’d think. When I asked about getting to Hampstead Heath on a Sunday, the front desk guy didn’t just point me toward the tube – he mentioned the Northern line delays and suggested walking to Leicester Square instead. Small thing, but it made me feel less like tourist number 4,847 of the day.
I’ll be honest, it’s not the cheapest option in London, but for what you get – space to breathe, a location that puts you in the thick of things without drowning in them, and that aparthotel flexibility – it feels fair. The only minor gripe I had was the Wi-Fi being a bit temperamental on the higher floors, but let’s be real, that’s practically a London hotel tradition at this point. Plus, there’s something to be said for being forced to look up from your phone occasionally when you’re surrounded by this much history and energy.