So I’ve stayed at this Holborn apartment a few times now, and honestly? It’s become my go-to spot when I need to be central but don’t want to deal with the chaos of staying right in the thick of things. The building on Southampton Row looks pretty standard from the outside – you know, typical London brick facade – but apartment 16 on the second floor is actually a really solid find.
The space itself is genuinely spacious (I mean, they’re not lying with that name), which is saying something for London. You walk in and there’s this proper living area that doesn’t feel cramped, plus the bedroom actually fits more than just a bed – revolutionary concept, right? What I really appreciate is that it feels like someone’s actual home rather than a sterile hotel room. There are little touches that make you comfortable, like decent lighting for reading and a kitchen that’s equipped well enough that you can actually cook something beyond instant noodles. The second floor thing is perfect too – high enough that you’re not getting street noise from Southampton Row (which can get busy with buses), but not so high that hauling luggage becomes a workout.
Location-wise, this is where it gets good. You’re literally a three-minute walk to Russell Square tube station, which connects you to basically everywhere without the tourist madness of somewhere like Covent Garden. Gray’s Inn Road is right there with some proper local pubs – I’m partial to The Dolphin if you want a pint without paying tourist prices. And you know what’s brilliant? You can walk to the British Museum in about ten minutes, but you’re also close enough to Lamb’s Conduit Street for some of the best independent shops and cafes in central London. Honestly, most visitors never discover that little stretch, but it’s got this village-y feel that’s rare in Zone 1. The only thing I’d mention is that if you’re coming with a massive suitcase, the stairs might be a bit of a pain – it’s not a huge building with a fancy lift situation. But the trade-off is worth it because you’re getting authentic London living without the premium you’d pay in Marylebone or Notting Hill. I keep coming back because it strikes that sweet spot between being properly central and actually liveable.