You know what struck me first about Ten Manchester Street? It’s tucked away on this quiet side street that most tourists never find, which honestly makes it feel like you’ve discovered something special. I mean, you’re literally a two-minute walk from Oxford Circus and all that madness, but step inside and it’s this surprisingly intimate boutique space that feels more like a well-appointed townhouse than a hotel.
The thing about this place is that it gets the details right in ways that bigger hotels just don’t bother with anymore. The lobby has this warm, residential feel – think rich fabrics and interesting art rather than marble and glass everywhere. Actually, the whole property used to be Georgian townhouses, and they’ve kept that character intact. The rooms aren’t huge (this is central London, after all), but they’re thoughtfully designed with proper storage and lighting that actually works for reading. I stayed on the third floor and it was blissfully quiet at night, which you can’t take for granted when you’re this close to Regent Street. The staff genuinely seem to remember your name after the first day, which is refreshing.
Location-wise, you’re in this sweet spot where you can walk to basically everything but still feel like you’re in a proper London neighborhood. Chiltern Street is right around the corner with some excellent independent shops and cafes – much more interesting than the chain stores on Oxford Street. The Wallace Collection is practically next door if you want some culture without the British Museum crowds. And here’s something I only figured out on my second visit: there’s actually decent street parking on Manchester Street itself after 6:30pm if you’re driving, though honestly, you won’t need a car from here. The Marble Arch tube station is about a five-minute walk, but Baker Street is just as close and usually less crowded. One small thing – the hotel doesn’t have its own gym, but they’ve got an arrangement with a nearby fitness club that’s actually pretty good. The breakfast is solid too, though if you want something more adventurous, Fitzrovia is full of great morning spots. At this price point and with an 8.3 rating, it’s doing something right – it’s that rare London hotel that feels both central and calm, professional but not stuffy.