You know what? I was actually skeptical when I first walked up to the LX Russell Square Apartments on Guilford Street – it’s one of those converted Georgian buildings that could go either way, right? But honestly, this place surprised me in the best possible way. The moment you step inside, there’s this immediate sense that someone actually thought about what travelers need, not just what looks good in photos.
The apartments themselves are properly spacious, which is saying something for London. I mean, you can actually open a suitcase without having to climb over it to get to the bathroom. The kitchenettes aren’t just for show either – they’ve got real cookware, not the flimsy stuff you usually find. I ended up making breakfast most mornings because there’s a Sainsbury’s Local literally around the corner on Marchmont Street, and honestly, it felt more like staying in a friend’s flat than a hotel. The Wi-Fi actually works too, which sounds basic but you’d be amazed how many places mess this up. During my stay, I was working remotely some days and never had an issue with calls or uploads.
What really sold me on this place though is the location – and I don’t mean that in the generic “convenient location” way everyone says. You’re basically in the heart of Bloomsbury, surrounded by all these gorgeous garden squares that most tourists never discover. Russell Square itself is maybe a three-minute walk, perfect for morning coffee or evening strolls when the day-trippers have cleared out. The British Museum? Five minutes on foot, max. But here’s the thing locals know – you’re also walking distance to some brilliant pubs that aren’t on every tourist list. The Lamb on Conduit Street has these amazing Victorian snugs, and it’s close enough that you don’t need to figure out night buses. Plus, you’ve got three different tube stations within easy reach (Russell Square, King’s Cross, and Euston), so getting anywhere in London is actually straightforward rather than that usual zone-juggling nightmare. The street itself is pretty quiet too – none of that constant traffic noise you get closer to the main roads, though you’ll still hear the occasional ambulance heading to UCLH. Check-in was smooth, staff seemed genuinely helpful rather than just going through the motions, and the whole building has this calm, residential feel that makes you want to stay longer than planned. That 9.7 rating? Yeah, I get it.