For all the years I’ve lived in London (which has been my whole life), I’m still discovering something new every single day. Of course, part of that reason is that something new is opening every other day too, but I’m continuing to stumble upon established places that I didn’t even know existed and one of those places was The Bentley Hotel. Nestled away on the back streets of Kensington and just a stones throw from some of the capitals best restaurants, museums and bars. It’s also only a few minutes walk from Gloucester Road station for those travelling into town.
As you enter the hotel, you’re greeted by a magnificent lobby and one I didn’t expect to be so grand. Who knew such beauty was hiding in Kensington? Opulent chandeliers, ornate furniture and picture perfect floral displays. Everything was so immaculately presented and everywhere felt so clean and well maintained. It’s a really lovely place to sit and enjoy a drink or spot of afternoon tea. Check-in was also very swift upon arrival and our room was ready well before the 3pm check-in time which always makes me happy.
If visiting or staying at this hotel, I highly recommended climbing the spiral staircase which helps create a really dramatic entrance to the property. Once you’ve climbed it, enjoy the views over the lobby area. It’s also a good excuse to take a peek inside the Le Kalon Spa. Although we didn’t use it ourselves, I’m told its floor to ceiling marble Turkish Hammam is quite spectacular.
After admiring that spiral staircase, we checked into our room which was huge. Much bigger than I expected considering the relatively boutique size of the property. The hotel has a total of 64 rooms and suites, all of which feel very classic in their designs. We were staying in room 502 and I enjoyed every second of it. The bed was extremely comfortable (and large), the TV was modern and up to date. Plus a nicely stocked mini bar with tea/coffee-making facilities which meant we could indulge a little.
I LOVED our bathroom. It was huge, grand, opulent – everything I wanted from a bathroom and more. Floor to ceiling marble, brushed gold at almost every turn, big fluffy towels and both shower room and bath tub, the latter turning into a jacuzzi for extra relaxation. I also really enjoyed using the spa products by Gilchrist & Soames, which felt rich and luxurious.
Come the evening we loved sitting in the lobby and people watching over a cocktail (or three). There is a dedicated bar further downstairs called Malachite, but it didn’t seem to be opened when we stayed, hence taking our cocktail in the lobby area which was just as enjoyable. The cocktail was lovely and the service was even better. The only one thing I wanted to note was the slightly odd dance music playing in the background. For a lobby this opulent, something refined would have suited much better.
The next morning we did what any respectable hotel guest should do, tuck into the hotels buffet breakfast – which was a very good one. Everything from charcuterie, pastries, cakes, fruit and even the hot items were offered as part of the buffet. I’m not usually a fan of hot items being served as part of a buffet, especially in a five-star hotel, but actually I thought the items were of such good quality and freshly cooked that I didn’t mind and if anything – it meant I could go back for seconds.
A closer look at the breakfast selection revealed a selection of cereals, fruit juices and for those who perhaps want an omelette or freshly cooked eggs – you can order these from the menu. Breakfast is a real treat here so come early, take your time and enjoy. The room breakfast is served in is perhaps in need of a colour/decor facelift, but as it stands it’s perfectly comfortable.
We had a lovely stay at The Bentley Hotel in Kensington and whilst a few areas are in need of updating, it feels very homely which is very much welcomed in an area of Kensington that can otherwise feel chaotic and busy at times. The borough of Kensington is so close to me and only recently have I spent the time exploring what it really has to offer and so I loved discovering The Bentley Hotel. A Boutique hotel with excellent service and a personality of its own.
This looks a great luxury hotel, I love the bed!