Point A Kensington Olympia

The bed was comfortable, and the people at the hotel were really friendly. It was also very clean overall, and the location was top. But the room and bathroom were so small that I couldn’t move around or get dressed without bumping into myself. Tea and other drinks cost extra, though water at the bar was free. Chargers and UK plugs were available from a self-service machine in the lobby. Our room wasn’t ready when we arrived, so we paid around 3 pounds per item to store our luggage.

I really liked the breakfast, especially the vegan blueberry croissant, which was fantastic for someone lactose intolerant like me. The basement room had a small window but was very comfortable, with enough space to move around freely. I could adjust the temperature and the different lights, and the shower was lovely. The hotel’s in a great spot, less than ten minutes from Earls Court Station, so getting around was easy. I’d definitely recommend it.

The location was good, close to the tube, and the staff were friendly and professional. Breakfast was minimal and had got boring by day two. The room was clean enough, the bed and pillows were okay, and there was all-in-one soap and shampoo. There was no room for suitcases, no chairs to relax in, nowhere to hang clothes, and no hand towels. It was too small for two people, and we couldn’t enjoy spending time there. I’ve stayed in plenty of European hotels, where rooms tend to be smaller than in the States, but this was the smallest I’ve seen. Next time in London I’d look for a bit more space.

Earls Court Station was close by, which sealed the deal for my three nights in London before a flight. The lobby is stylish, and that look carries into the rooms. Getting bags up and down the front steps was a bit of a pain, though. My room was tiny, smaller than any I remember outside the ferry I arrived on, but they’d tried to make the most of it. The bed was a good size and comfortable, with bedside tables and a cabinet. There was a small fold-away desk, air-conditioning, TV, free WiFi, a divided rubbish and recycling bin, and a hairdryer. I personally saw the bin contents all go into the same bag. No kettle, tea or coffee, fridge, or chair or stool for the desk. There was barely anywhere for luggage except under the bed or under the console on the floor. I chose the latter and managed not to trip over it at night. The washroom was nice and had what I needed in a compact space, with a pleasant neighbourhood view from the window. Breakfast was available on site, but I ate out. It was fine for a short stay, though I’d opt for a bigger room next time if possible.