You know what struck me first about Hotel Xenia? It’s actually got personality – which honestly surprised me because let’s face it, a lot of these Autograph Collection places can feel a bit corporate. But walking into the lobby, there’s this whole Greek-inspired theme going on (Xenia means hospitality in Greek, in case you’re wondering), and they’ve done it without being cheesy about it. The space feels warm but sophisticated, sort of like someone’s really well-traveled aunt decorated it. I mean, you’re right on Cromwell Road which can get pretty busy during rush hour – you’ll definitely hear some traffic if you’re facing the street – but honestly, once you’re inside, it fades into typical London background noise.
The location is what really makes this place work though. You’re literally a two-minute walk from South Kensington tube station, which people don’t always realize connects you to basically everywhere without having to change lines a million times. Turn left out of the hotel and you hit the Natural History Museum, turn right and you’re wandering into the fancy bits of Knightsbridge. There’s this little Polish deli around the corner on Thurloe Street that does incredible pierogi if you get tired of hotel breakfast (though theirs is actually pretty decent). What I love is that you’re in proper London here – not touristy-fake London, but the kind where you see actual Londoners doing their shopping on Old Brompton Road and kids heading to school in the mornings.
The rooms themselves are comfortable without trying too hard to impress you. Mine had this deep blue headboard that somehow didn’t feel overwhelming, and the bathroom was properly spacious – not one of those London hotel bathrooms where you’re practically sitting on the toilet while you brush your teeth. Check-in was smooth, though I’d avoid arriving around 3 PM on weekends because that’s apparently when half of Europe checks in at the same time. The staff genuinely seemed to know the neighborhood well too, which makes a difference when you’re asking for restaurant recommendations. They pointed me toward this gastropub on Harrington Road that I never would’ve found otherwise. Is it perfect? Well, the air conditioning can be a bit temperamental, and the WiFi occasionally decides to take breaks, but these feel like minor quibbles when you’re paying reasonable rates for a 4-star place in one of London’s best neighborhoods. Plus, parking is available if you’re brave enough to drive in London – though honestly, with South Ken station right there, I can’t imagine why you’d want to.