You know what struck me first about SW1 Apartments? It’s tucked away on Lupus Street in a way that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something the tourist crowds haven’t figured out yet. I mean, you’re literally in Westminster Borough – the same area where politicians rush around with important-looking briefcases – but this particular stretch feels refreshingly residential and calm.
The apartments themselves are honestly better than I expected for a 4-star place. There’s this sense that someone actually thought about how people live, not just where they sleep for a night. The kitchens aren’t just for show (I actually cooked breakfast most mornings), and the living spaces have enough room to spread out your stuff without tripping over your suitcase. What really won me over was how quiet it stays, even though you’re close enough to Victoria Station that you can hear the faint rumble of trains if you really listen for it. The 7.8 rating makes sense – it’s not trying to be the fanciest place in London, but it gets the important stuff right.
Here’s the thing about this location that booking sites don’t tell you: you’re a proper 10-minute walk to Pimlico tube station, which connects you to pretty much everywhere without the chaos of Victoria Station (though that’s close too if you need it). Tachbrook Street Market is right around the corner – honestly one of London’s best-kept secrets for groceries and that perfect Saturday morning coffee. I found myself walking along the Thames most evenings because Millbank is just there, and you can see the Houses of Parliament lit up without fighting through crowds. The neighborhood has this lived-in feeling where you’ll see the same dog walker every morning and actual families going about their business, not just tourists taking selfies. Parking is typical London nightmare stuff, but if you’re smart enough to stay here, you’re probably smart enough to skip the car anyway.