Kensington

If you like staying in an atmospheric neighborhood rather than the heart of the city.

One of the most charming neighborhoods in London, Kensington is filled with white stucco townhouses, adorable mews streets and is the London of the romantic comedies.

There are only four official five star hotels in Kensington and three of them are within five minutes walk of each other. Luxury hotels in Kensington are much more like boutique hotels than mega five stars – heavy on design and charm and low on extensive amenities like spas. You won’t find any pools at the five star hotels in Kensington but you will find some good bars.

Kensington over delivers on great attractions with three of London’s best museums, Kensington Palace, great shopping on High Street Kensington, Kensington Gardens and the delightful Holland Park. There are some fantastic pubs and interesting restaurants and some hidden gems like Leighton House and the Design Museum.

Five-star hotels in Kensington

My Recommendation

The Ampersand

This stylish five star boutique hotel is themed around its most famous neighbours from the rooms (Science, Astronomy etc) to afternoon tea (Science or Jurassic themed) to the French style drawing room (this part of South Kensington is heavy on French influence and residents). Staff are friendly and it is a one minute walk from the tube.

The Kensington

Chic and comfortable, this is as boutique as a 150 room five star hotel gets with a great location.

The Adria

A charming hotel but short on unique features and five star amenities

The Milestone

Opposite Hyde Park but the dark interiors are in need of a serious refurb.

Top Attractions in Kensington

Kensington is home to some of London’s top tourist attractions like Kensington Palace and the V&A,charming mews streets, the beautiful Holland Park and some quirky gems like the Design Museum and Leighton House.

Victoria and Albert Museum

Locally known as the V&A, this museum holds some of the most popular exhibits in London and has one of its prettiest cafes.

Natural History Museum

This London museum is all about the life and earth sciences and is home to London’s most famous dinosaur, Dippy.

Holland Park

In my opinion, London’s loveliest park. Don’t miss the Dutch Garden, Kyoto Garden and the excellent cafe.

Kensington Palace

The birthplace of Queen Victoria, in more recent times Kensington Palace is most closely associated with Princess Diana. Visit the Palace to see the decadent royal rooms and also visit the tributes to Princess Diana.

Leighton House

Frederic Leighton was one of the most famous artists of the 18th century. His home was also a studio and he collected items on his extensive travels to tun this into a sumptuous and unique space.