Urban Chic – Rathbone

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about Urban Chic? The name made me expect some sterile, trendy place trying too hard, but honestly – it’s got character. Walking up Rathbone Place (which is basically this narrow street that feels tucked away from the chaos), you’d almost miss it if you weren’t looking. The entrance is understated in that very British way, but once you’re inside, there’s this nice balance between modern touches and actual warmth. I mean, the lobby isn’t huge, but it doesn’t feel cramped either – just intimate, I guess.

The location is actually brilliant if you know London at all. You’re literally a two-minute walk from Oxford Street, but Rathbone Place itself is quiet enough that you won’t hear the tourist hordes at night. Fitzrovia is one of those neighborhoods that locals love but visitors often stumble into by accident – loads of proper pubs (the Fitzroy Tavern is right around the corner), independent coffee shops, and those little streets where you can actually think. Tottenham Court Place station is close enough that you don’t need to plan your tube journeys like a military operation, and honestly, walking to Covent Garden or even Regent’s Park is totally doable if the weather’s decent.

What I really appreciated was the attention to details that actually matter when you’re staying somewhere. The rooms aren’t massive – this is central London, after all – but they’re thoughtfully laid out. Good lighting for reading, proper blackout curtains (crucial if you’re dealing with jet lag), and the beds are genuinely comfortable, not just Instagram-pretty. The bathrooms have that rainfall shower situation that actually works, unlike some places where it’s all style and no water pressure. Staff wise, they seem to know the area well – not just the obvious tourist spots, but where to grab decent takeaway at 10pm or which bus will get you to King’s Cross without the tube. Check-in was smooth, no unnecessary upselling or fake enthusiasm, just efficient and friendly.

I’d say the 8.4 rating feels about right – it’s a solid choice without any major surprises, good or bad. The 4-star rating isn’t pushing into luxury territory, but you’re not roughing it either. If you’re someone who wants to be in the thick of things but still sleep well at night, and you prefer character over corporate hotel sameness, Urban Chic works. Just don’t expect a gym or room service until midnight – it’s more about location and comfort than bells and whistles.

Rooms

• Standard One Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 2 children
• Superior One Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed for 4 adults, 2 children
• Deluxe One Bedroom Apartment with Terrace with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Superior Two bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults, 4 children
• Deluxe Two-Bedroom Penthouse Apartment with Terrace with 2 × 1 double bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Standard Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults, 4 children
• Two Bedroom Apartment with Terrace with 2 × 1 double bed for 4 adults, 3 children

Facilities