The Academy – Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Hotel Description

You know what really struck me about The Academy when I first walked in? It doesn’t feel like you’re staying in some massive hotel chain – it’s got this intimate, almost scholarly vibe that actually makes sense when you realize you’re basically in the heart of academic London. I mean, you’re literally on Gower Street, which honestly feels like walking through a living piece of literary history. The British Museum is maybe a three-minute stroll away, and you’ve got all these little squares and Georgian townhouses that make you feel like you should be carrying a leather satchel and discussing Dickens.

The building itself is this beautiful Georgian conversion – five floors of what used to be separate townhouses, now turned into something that feels more like staying at a well-connected friend’s place than a typical hotel. The rooms are honestly quite lovely, though they vary quite a bit since they’re working with the original architecture. Some are snug (and I mean properly snug), while others surprise you with these lovely high ceilings and big windows that look out over the tree-lined street. The décor walks this nice line between traditional and contemporary – think rich fabrics and dark woods, but with modern touches that keep it from feeling stuffy. What I really appreciated was the attention to small details… proper thick towels, a writing desk that’s actually usable, and – this might sound silly – but the lighting is thoughtfully done, which you don’t always get in converted buildings like this.

The location is honestly fantastic if you want to feel like you’re living in London rather than just visiting it. Russell Square tube station is literally around the corner, so you can be in the West End in about ten minutes, but the neighborhood itself has this wonderful residential feel. There’s a Waitrose practically next door for grabbing supplies, and you’re walking distance from some genuinely good pubs that aren’t tourist traps – The Lamb on Lamb’s Conduit Street is worth seeking out. I stayed there during a particularly busy period in October, and while the area gets foot traffic during the day (all those museum visitors), it quiets down beautifully in the evenings. The staff really seem to know their stuff too – not just about the hotel, but about the area. They pointed me toward a fantastic little café on Marchmont Street that I never would have found otherwise. Is it perfect? Well, it’s definitely more boutique than grand luxury – if you’re expecting a massive lobby or a full spa, this isn’t that place. But if you want something with character in one of London’s most interesting neighborhoods, The Academy really delivers on that promise.

Rooms

• Townhouse Single Room with 1 single bed for 1 adult
• Bloomsbury King Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Bloomsbury Suite with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Townhouse King Room with 1 double bed for 2 adults
• Bloomsbury Twin with 2 single beds for 2 adults

Facilities