Spacious 1 bedroom / Gloucester Road / Harrods

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about this place? The moment you step into 40 Stanhope Gardens, it actually feels like you’re entering someone’s well-appointed London home rather than a typical hotel. I mean, the building itself is this gorgeous Victorian terrace that blends seamlessly into one of Kensington’s quieter residential streets – honestly, I walked past it twice before realizing I’d found my accommodation.

The one-bedroom setup is genuinely spacious by London standards (and trust me, I’ve squeezed into enough shoebox hotels to appreciate the difference). The living area has this lived-in comfort that you don’t usually get in corporate hotels – think quality furniture that’s actually meant for lounging, not just looking pretty in photos. The kitchen is properly equipped too, which becomes brilliant when you realize there’s a Tesco Express just around the corner on Gloucester Road, and honestly, after a few days of restaurant prices, cooking becomes quite appealing. The bedroom feels separate enough that you’re not living on top of your luggage, and the bathroom – well, it’s got one of those rainfall showers that actually works properly.

Location-wise, this is where things get really good. Gloucester Road tube station is literally a three-minute walk, which means you’re connected to the Piccadilly, Circle, and District lines without the tourist chaos of somewhere like Covent Garden. But here’s what the booking sites don’t tell you – you’re also perfectly positioned between two very different London experiences. Head south toward Old Brompton Road and you’ll find yourself among the locals: proper pubs, independent cafes, and that slightly more relaxed vibe. Walk north toward Hyde Park Corner and suddenly you’re in full-on luxury London territory. Harrods is genuinely a ten-minute stroll (I timed it), but so is Harvey Nichols, and the Victoria and Albert Museum is practically on your doorstep. The Natural History Museum? Maybe fifteen minutes on foot through some of London’s most beautiful streets.

What I really appreciated was how quiet Stanhope Gardens stays, even though you’re surrounded by major attractions. It’s one of those tree-lined streets where residents actually live, so there’s no constant stream of tour groups or late-night party crowds. The only real noise comes from the occasional delivery truck in the mornings, but that’s London for you. Parking is typically challenging around here – it’s residents-only during the day – but honestly, with the transport connections, you won’t need a car anyway.

The 7.5 rating feels about right, actually. It’s not trying to be the Savoy, but it delivers exactly what it promises: proper space, solid amenities, and a location that puts you right in the heart of things without the premium price tag of the big-name hotels. I’d definitely stay here again, especially if I wanted to feel like I was living in London rather than just visiting it.

Rooms

• One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults

Facilities