Number Sixteen

This is a beautiful town house hotel situated a few minutes walk from South Kensington underground station and 10 mins walk to the King's Road, SW3. When we checked in we were told we had been upgraded to a luxury double (we had booked a superior double). We were initially concerned as the room (room 12) was on the ground floor, very close to the public areas/bar. When we called Reception to ask if we could be moved, they acted quickly and showed us a room in the lower ground floor/basement. However, we decided to stay in the other room, as we preferred the decor and the view of the garden. One word of warning, the rooms are small and for the price you pay you don't get too much space. However this is a smart area of London and the price for the overall quality of hotel is, in our opinion, still good. The hotel is beautifully decorated (contemporary meets English country cottage) and the public areas are very comfortable. The hotel has a very homely feel and the staff were extremely friendly and accommodating. The only minor complaint we would have is the breakfast. Service was a little slow and the amount of food and selection was a little limited. Although we only stayed one night, we would definitely return to this gem of a hotel. The hotel had a beautiful garden, and it would certainly be a lovely place to re-visit in the summer when the garden could be used. It is truly an oasis amidst the usual hustle and bustle of London.

This is a great hotel in every way but one - the basic room for singles is the size of a closet and the bed won't fit anyone over 5' 8". Other than that, it is in a great location, wonderfully decorated, and the staff is very responsive. But if at all claustrophobic or tall, ask careful questions about the size of the room and bed.

We stayed for three nights in room 202 which overlooked the garden. The room was roomy and the bathrooms were even roomier - double sinks, bath, window overlooking the street-side. Everything was modern and stylish. The King bed was great and very comfortable. Coming from NYC we expect a lot and we have stayed in some incredible hotels (Four Seasons, Oberoi Resorts, Singita, etc.) We were very satisfied with our room.

The breakfast is not to be missed - especially since it's free or part of your stay. There's a good continental breakfast spread - fruits, yogurts, honey, fresh jams, various very fresh crossaints and breads, cereals and more. You can order an egg breakfast at cost, but the continental options were more than sufficient and quite delicious. A waiter comes by to give you coffee/tea and staff were very hospitable. The breakfast area overlooked a garden, so you can also eat outside (but since it was Jan. we stayed in). I'd definitely come back in the summer.

The area is the best place to stay in London. 2 blocks from the tube, 10 min walk to Harrods, 2 min walk to stylish boutique stores and exceptional restaurants. It is a very posh area!

All-in-all, we love it!