Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect from The Rosebery when I first walked up to that sleek glass entrance on Rosebery Avenue – you know how these aparthotel concepts can go either way. But this place actually gets it right. The moment you step inside, there’s this clean, modern vibe that feels more like a friend’s well-designed flat than a sterile hotel lobby. The staff at check-in were genuinely helpful (not just going through the motions), and I mean, when you’re lugging bags after a long flight, that kind of thing matters more than you’d think.
What really won me over was how they’ve nailed the whole “home away from home” thing without making it feel like you’re staying in someone’s spare room. The apartments – and they are proper apartments, not just hotel rooms with a mini-fridge shoved in the corner – have these lovely little kitchens where you can actually cook a real meal. I spent a good chunk of one morning making proper coffee and scrambled eggs while looking out at the tree-lined street below, which honestly felt like such a luxury after weeks of hotel breakfast buffets. The beds are seriously comfortable too, and the bathrooms have that rainfall shower situation that actually works (you’d be surprised how often those things are just for show). Storage space is thoughtful – there are enough drawers and hanging space that you can properly unpack, even for longer stays.
Location-wise, you’re right in the heart of Islington, which is one of those London neighborhoods that feels distinctly local rather than touristy. Angel tube station is literally a five-minute walk, so you can get anywhere in central London without much fuss, but the real charm is what’s right on your doorstep. Upper Street is packed with brilliant restaurants and pubs – I particularly loved having The Drapers Arms just around the corner for a proper Sunday roast. The area gets lively in the evenings (it’s popular with the after-work crowd), but the building itself is well-insulated, so you won’t be kept awake unless you leave your windows wide open. There’s a Waitrose practically next door for groceries, and Chapel Market – this fantastic little street market – is perfect for picking up fresh produce and random bits you didn’t know you needed. Parking can be a bit tricky if you’re driving, but honestly, you won’t need a car here anyway. The whole setup just works – it’s that sweet spot where you feel like you’re experiencing London as locals do, but with all the backup support of a well-run hotel when you need it.