This storied building hosted a litany of legends in its former incarnation as the BBC's Kensington House, and has welcomed a fair few celebrities since. Though the décor is somewhat past its prime this is still a smart space, with touches of decadence throughout its spacious interior. Within striking distance of central London, this is a well-priced base for a break in the capital, especially if you plan on making use of its spa or gym facilities. Bedrooms are decently sized and surprisingly peaceful, despite their proximity to Shepherd's Bush's pubs and music venues. Head to the mezzanine-level Studio Kitchen for a diverse all-day menu, or to the ground floor bar for a dazzling array of cocktails, as well as the occasional mixologists' masterclass.
Michelin-starred La Trompette in Chiswick, a destination restaurant in its own right, can be reached in a cab in ten minutes.
It's a 10-minute walk to Westfield shopping centre, and a little further to Holland Park and the Design Museum.
By car: under 4 hours from Manchester and 2 hours from Bristol. On-site parking costs £29 per day.
By train: Shepherd's Bush station is a 5-minute walk and Kensington (Olympia) is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. thetrainline.com
Music or comedy fans with tickets for the Eventim (formerly Hammersmith) Apollo or couples looking for an urban spa break with a side order of shopping will love it here. The granite cocktail bar looks super-cool come nightfall, with two cream-coloured drop column chandeliers hanging over bottles of backlit booze.
Each Wednesday, there's a free cocktail-mixing masterclass held in the Studio Bar. The hotel can also offer longer classes for private groups at £40pp.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Fitness centre
- Spa
- On-site parking
- Free Wi-Fi
The Studio rooms are palatial by London standards, each with a generous open plan living area and a firm king size bed. Bathrooms come complete with White Company 'Noir Collection' toiletries, a seductive scent entirely in keeping with the hotel's decadent aesthetic.
Junior Double, Superior, Deluxe, Executive, Studio, K Suite
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, in-room tablet, TV, free Wi-Fi
The Studio Bar's cocktail list is genuinely impressive, offering everything from French 75s to Tommy's Margaritas, plus a decent range of wines by the glass. The breakfast here is excellent, especially the avocado toast with perfectly poached eggs, specialty coffees, and wide range of fresh fruit and pastries.
Studio Kitchen: stylish restaurant, small plates, sharing platters and classic mains. All-day dining, open daily.
Studio Bar: cosy lounge, extensive cocktail menu. Open daily from 4pm.
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