Kensington Gardens Hotel — Hotel in London

Incredible stay in Kensington! Upon arrival the staff member (I have forgotten her name, but she was FANTASTIC), allowed us into our room even though we were much earlier than the normal check in time. I was a bit worried about being warm as it was warmer, and this hotel does not have air conditioning (normal and wasn't a surprise), BUT there was a fan provided in the room! That made all the difference and was so very appreciated. The room we were in overlooked the Gardens, and it was much more spacious than I thought it would be. The bathroom was also great and looked brand new (not sure if this is a new renovation or if they just clean them that well). There was also a few cookies provided (and refreshed each morning) as well as a kettle for tea and instant coffee. The area is so nice and walking distance to two tube stations (Queensway and Bayswater). Also an easy and beautiful 17 minute walk to Paddington station. There are tons of great restaurants in the area, and it is also walking distance to Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, and Notting Hill. Lovely staff, location, and room. Great value for the convenience of all of these things, and also so much more reasonably priced than other hotels that offer similar things that were important to me during my trip. Overall an incredible stay and will most definitely be coming back on any future trips to London!

Do be aware that there is no lift, and to get to any of the rooms there are some stairs involved, not a problem for us, but good to know. Also if you need to check in after 5pm you have to do so at the Phoenix hotel just a few doors down, or if you come back after 5pm you go and pick up your room key from them as well. Again, no issue, they are "sister hotels" and the staff at the Phoenix...

The entire area is full of accommodations for travellers. It appears that some of the hotels share services or such due to the way they are set up. That said, I felt it wasn't as central as I would have liked but given the price of something "more central", this was quite alright. It is connected to the Phoenix hotel next door in terms of some services but is not physically connected it seems. This front desk is not open 24 hours and in off hours, the service transfers to the Phoenix Hotel.

The room was very clean but there was a very slight smell in the bathroom--probably from the shower curtain that needed to be changed/washed. Otherwise, the rest of the suite was well maintained. I would say that compared to other places I've stayed at, this is only average and is not exceptional. There is wifi, the amenities are available for basic stay, the room is clean and tidy and the area is safe. There is not a breakfast included in this one--which is fine (I'd rather no breakfast than something slapped together). The staff are friendly enough but I still found a bit distant. The areas is lovely so going for a stroll is nice. There is a chance to leave luggage after you check out if your flight is later in the day. If you are looking for boutique-y or more personal, this isn't going to fit... it is a good place to stay and sleep.

Would stay again if...

Extremely small room. I am used to small rooms in london (and elsewhere), but this one is ridiculously so. Once you are in, that's it. The tiny closet door that separates the microscopic "bathroom" is all that's there to indicate some sort of division. I am 6'2", I feel like a giant trapped in a tiny box. You have to sit at an angle on the toilet in order to fit. The small box shower is uncomfortable to shower in as you can't move at all, and the hand sized sink is a ridiculous excuse for one. Additionally, there is no privacy in terms of noises. The people next door to me were having a lively conversation, and it was as if they were in the room with me, insane. Couple all of this with the steep climb to the fourth floor, and this is perhaps one of the worst stays I've ever had. On top of it all, this is part of another hotel 3 doors down. It's a standalone building, though. So you have to check in at the actual hotel 3 doors down, and if anything happens, you have to go there to communicate your needs. Very odd indeed. This place's only saving grace is its location. The vancouver Studios and Hotel a few doors down is way better. Unfortunately, their system was down, and I couldn't not book with them this time. I won't be back here,...