You know what surprised me about StayLux Soho? It actually feels like a proper boutique hotel, not one of those places trying too hard to be trendy. I mean, Bateman Street isn’t exactly the postcard part of Soho, but honestly that works in your favor – you’re literally a two-minute walk from Cambridge Circus and all the theater madness, but you can actually sleep at night.
The lobby has this understated thing going on, dark wood and brass fixtures that don’t scream “look at me.” Check-in was smooth (I got there around 3pm on a Thursday), and the staff seemed to genuinely know the neighborhood. When I asked about dinner spots, the guy behind the desk didn’t just rattle off the usual tourist traps – he mentioned this little Spanish place on Greek Street that I never would’ve found otherwise. The rooms are what you’d expect from a solid 4-star in central London, which is to say they’re not huge but they’re thoughtfully designed. The bed was actually comfortable, and the bathroom had proper water pressure – honestly, after some of the London hotels I’ve stayed in, that’s not a given. My room faced the street, and while Bateman Street gets a bit lively on weekends (you’re in Soho, after all), it’s nothing compared to staying right on Wardour Street or Old Compton.
Here’s the thing about the location – it’s properly central without being chaotic. You’ve got Foyles bookstore practically around the corner, you can walk to Covent Garden in about eight minutes, and if you need the Tube, Tottenham Court Road station is right there. I found myself walking everywhere instead of taking transport, which in London usually means you’ve landed somewhere good. The 7.8 rating feels about right, actually – it’s not going to blow your mind, but it delivers on what it promises. I’d probably stay here again, especially if I was seeing shows since you can literally stumble back from the theaters. Just don’t expect cutting-edge design or a rooftop bar with Instagram views – this is more about being a solid, well-run place in an excellent spot where you can get a proper night’s sleep before tackling another day in the city.