The Gainsborough Hotel

The Gainsborough was peaceful, and we didn’t hear a peep from other guests. The room was extremely clean and generously sized, with lovely touches like a heated bathroom floor, light-up mirror, heavy blankets, fresh biscuits every day, and a coffee machine. The service was fabulous, and all the staff were lovely and went above and beyond. The location is superb, right across from the V&A and Natural History Museum and around the corner from South Ken tube. I had a delightful stay, have already recommended it to friends, and am absolutely coming back.

Fabio and Emmanuel have made my stay so enjoyable so far. Everyone on staff has been very hospitable, bringing extra cookies, coffee, or refills for the room whenever needed. The walls are thick enough that I don’t disturb other guests, and they don’t disturb me. The shower is roomier than the one at the hotel I stayed in Brooklyn, NYC, and there’s space to close the door without your knees hitting it. My room’s blackout drapes and cozy bed were just what I needed after a full flight where few people slept. As an American travelling alone, the Queensbury Street location has suited me well. The hotel feels like staying in someone’s home rather than a brash American Hotel, and the quiet little street means you’re less likely to draw attention to yourself. It’s steps from the Natural History Museum and about a block from the V&A, in the Chelsea Kensington area. There’s plenty within reach on this side of town and the Underground is a quick walk away. I also found I didn’t need much space to get up and start my morning easily.

We spent seven nights at the Gainsborough for a visit focused on South Kensington, and we’d happily come back if we return to this part of London. The location was fantastic, with restaurants, coffee and pastry shops, buses, the Underground, and many attractions just a short walk away. We took the Underground to two theater performances from a station about a block away. South Kensington is handy for the local sights. I’d recommend booking a tour at the Royal Albert Hall, it was a superb experience. The renovated hotel has a charming, comfortable feel, more like coming home each day than staying in a spacious, cookie-cutter place. Our room had space to unpack large suitcases, a very comfortable bed, and little noise. It was quiet through the night. The lighting was well designed, especially around the bathroom mirror, and the heated bathroom floor and spacious shower were welcome bonuses. There was some minor wear and tear that could be addressed eventually, but the room was clean and well stocked from arrival onward. Every staff member was friendly, welcoming, kind, and attentive, from check-in and casual greetings to handling our requests and seeing us off. We couldn’t have been more pleased.

The Gainsborough is in a quiet spot, absolutely silent overnight, and well placed for the major museums, Harrods, Hyde Park, and other sights. We walked to Battersea in half an hour, enjoying the architecture on the quiet streets. Piccadilly underground station is also just a five-minute walk away. Friends recommended the hotel, and the staff were helpful both on the phone when we booked and throughout our stay. Our room was clean and comfortable, and breakfast each morning was varied and substantial. We’ll be back!