Sanctuary House or Resident Kensington

Sanctuary House was where we always stated in London, starting in 2003, until we started booking apartments (in 2014). We really like the locations—-very central for walking, which is what le prefer to do in London. Most walks from Sanctualy House start with Dartmouth St. to the Cock Steps and into St. James Park. From there one can head east to either Westminster Bridge or (preferred) the pedestrian Jubilee Bridges to cross the river, north to Trafalgar Square area, or west past Buckingham Palace and through Green and Hyde Parks to the museums just south of the park (V & A, Science Museum, Natural History Museum).

If you prefer bus or Tube there are stops for both nearby.

Resident Kensington would be closer to those museums, but not much else of interest, at least to us, and not nearly as good for walking.

I have been staying at the Resident Kensington for over 8 years. In total, probably around 300 nights. In fact I just left it last Tuesday.

It's located in Earls Court, a much quieter residential area than the Sanctuary House. Each room is air conditioned, has excellent wifi, includes a kitchenette with refrigerator, microwave, Nespresso Coffee Machine, Kettle, dishes, glasses, cutlery and a built in Brita Water Filter. They supply all the coffee and tea you might want.

It's quiet and only a five minute walk to the tube station.

The service offered by the staff is 5 star. They go out of their way to make you feel special.

Lots of restaurants, pubs and stores nearby. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are about 15 minutes away walking. Museum Row is similar.

And every night they offer a free glass of wine or Proseco between 6 and 7.

One of the things that drew me to the hotel in the first place was its location. After a long day of sightseeing, I could return to a quiet area rather than still be in the middle of everything.

I stayed at The Sanctuary House last month. https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/trip-report-london-march-2024