The prestigious neighbourhood of Kensington is one of London’s most affluent and stands as a highly desirable place to live. With convenient access to an array of intriguing shops, world-renowned retail outlets, charming local cafés, and a wealth of restaurants, museums, and parks, the area offers a sophisticated base for visitors to the culturally iconic city of London.
These reasons help to explain why Kensington is one of the most in-demand neighbourhoods when it comes to property for sale in the city. In addition, the neighbourhood is blessed with many luxurious places to stay, from grand, historical hotels to cosy, boutique residences – ideal for those who are in town for just a fleeting visit.
In this article, we’ll explore a few of the very best Kensington hotels.
Milestone Hotel Kensington
The five-star Grade II-listed Milestone Hotel overlooks Kensington Palace and Gardens and offers a selection of beautiful guest rooms, suites, and long-stay apartments – each boasting unique design and an abundance of character. Rooms at this 19th-century hotel blend old-fashioned aesthetics with the latest modern conveniences, so expect antique furnishings and fine fabrics, alongside flat-screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms.
As well as easy access to the upmarket amenities of Kensington and Knightsbridge, guests can enjoy an on-site fitness centre, spa, and resistance pool. Cheneston’s Restaurant – located within the hotel – uses locally sourced and organic produce whenever possible and is happy to accommodate special requests, while afternoon tea is served in the lounge.
While the park-facing Junior Suite offers unique views of Kensington Gardens, the zenith is arguably The Tudor, with its immaculate attention to detail and exquisite architecture, or the Royal Kensington Suite, which fuses the Hermes and Kensington Garden Suites, ideal for larger families.
Also Read: Best Hotels in South West London
The Adria
A boutique hotel in every sense of the word, this Victorian townhouse offers a choice of five stylish, beautifully decorated rooms. The hotel is the ideal solution for those seeking a luxurious and relaxing place to stay in Kensington, with elegantly furnished rooms which represent a captivating place to unwind. They also boast further conveniences, such as espresso machines and a media hub. Guests can draw further advantage from sleek design features, like marble bathroom fittings and underfloor heating, in addition to walk-in waterfall showers.
With delectable breakfast options in the onsite morning room, chefs are happy to accommodate requests if your preferred meal isn’t on the menu. There is also an open-air garden room, which functions as the ideal location in which to enjoy a spot of afternoon tea.
Two outstanding Signature suites are also on offer for visitors. These options present expansive living spaces complete with fireplaces – ideal for those seasonal months when one might be in town for a spot of Christmas shopping. However, due to the exclusivity and limited supply of these suites, it would be wise to book far in advance.
Also Read: Boutique Hotel in Richmond
The Ampersand Hotel
This five-star boutique hotel is set in a stunning Victorian building on Harrington Road, South Kensington. Each bedroom is uniquely decorated and boasts original Victorian features, while the establishment further offers a Mediterranean restaurant, a downstairs bar, and a well-equipped gym. Conveniently located just moments from South Kensington underground station, the hotel functions as a great base for exploring everything England’s capital city has to offer.
The suites at the Ampersand are located on the fourth and fifth floors and offer views across the London skyline, while the chambers all boast spacious living quarters and fine detailing. Those travelling with families can take advantage of the sophisticated suites which offer interconnected deluxe rooms.
Also Read: Hotels Near Regents Park London
The Other House South Kensington
The Other House South Kensington is made up of 11 stunning townhouses, which present 237 chic and contemporary rooms. Designed as mini apartments, the accommodations also grant guests access to the hotel’s exclusive private members club, which features a heated vitality pool, gym, sauna, steam room, wellness studio, and screening room, along with two lounges and a diverse calendar of events.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you will be glad of the onsite restaurant: The Other Kitchen, which offers breakfast, lunch, and afternoon grazing options. Meanwhile, the hotel’s Owl & Monkey bar, with decor inspired by the natural world, is the perfect place to spend an evening. Expect DJs, cosy spaces, and guest-only drinks menus.
The five-bedroom Courtyard Combo flat is arguably the pick of the lodgings, organised around a luxurious Riad-style courtyard. The apartment boasts tranquil colour palettes, while each bedroom features an en-suite bathroom. With an emphasis on exclusivity and privacy, plus luxurious features and a prime Kensington location, The Other House is a magnificent place to stay.
Also Read: Best Country House Hotels UK
The Kensington Hotel
The luxurious Kensington Hotel blends contemporary comfort with traditional elegance. Set within a classic 19th-century white townhouse on the corner of the famous Queen’s Gate and Old Brompton Road, the hotel is a serene place to stay.
The hotel also boasts a stylish restaurant known as the Town House, which presents a menu full of seasonal English dishes from chef Steve Gibbs. The hotel bar, replete with oak-panelled walls and upholstered sofas, is also a charming addition and represents the ideal location for an after-dinner refreshment.
With 150 rooms and 24 suites to choose from – including the exceptional Kensington, Knightsbridge and Brompton Suites – the hotel is well stocked where stately abodes are concerned.
This is also a great choice for those who value a healthy body and mind, with an on-site spa treatment room and a state-of-the-art fitness centre, which covers all of your workout needs.
If you happen to be in the city on business, the hotel also offers meeting and events rooms, boasting first-class service and the ambience of a private members' club.
The neighbourhood remains one of London’s premier locales and is extremely popular with ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The property market boasts a wide selection of flats for sale in Kensington, while there is also a wide selection of flats available for rent in the area. With its central location and convenient access to the best the city has to offer, there is also an abundance of amenities and services. The area offers some of the best hotels in the English capital, making it a fantastic choice from which to base yourself if you are just in town visiting. This list of the best hotels in Kensington will help you to make an informed decision the next time you are planning a trip to London.
