The Courtfield Plaza

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about The Courtfield Plaza? It’s actually tucked into these converted Victorian apartments on Courtfield Gardens – and I mean properly tucked in, like you’d walk right past it if you weren’t looking. The entrance is sort of understated in that very London way, which honestly I loved because it felt more like staying at a posh friend’s place than some massive tourist hotel. The location is pretty brilliant if you know Kensington at all – you’re literally a two-minute walk from Gloucester Road tube station, and I mean actually two minutes, not the “two minutes” that usually means ten. Plus you’ve got that stretch of Old Brompton Road right there with all the little cafés and shops that locals actually use, not just the touristy stuff.

The rooms have this interesting mix going on – they’ve kept some of the original Victorian features (the ceilings are gorgeous, actually) but updated everything else without going overboard. My room had these big windows that let in loads of natural light, which you don’t always get in London hotels, let’s be honest. The bathroom was compact but well-designed, and the shower pressure was actually decent – something I’ve learned not to take for granted in older London buildings. What I really appreciated was how quiet it was at night, even though you’re in the middle of everything. I think being on a residential garden square rather than a main road makes all the difference. The 7.8 rating feels about right to me – it’s not trying to be the Ritz, but it does what it does really well.

Here’s the thing that’ll matter if you’re planning to stay here – the staff actually know the neighborhood. When I asked about getting to Camden Market, the guy at reception didn’t just point me toward the tube; he told me which car to get on for the best connection and mentioned that Saturday mornings are mental there, so go early or wait until after lunch. That kind of local insight is worth its weight in gold when you’re trying to navigate London efficiently. The area itself is fantastic for exploring on foot – you can walk to Hyde Park in about eight minutes, the V&A and Natural History Museum are right there, and if you head toward South Ken station, you’ll find some really good pubs that aren’t completely overrun with tourists. It’s not the cheapest option in London, obviously, but for a four-star place in this part of Kensington, it feels like decent value – especially when you factor in not having to schlep across town to see anything interesting.

Rooms

• Standard Studio with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• King Studio with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults

Facilities