Among the bewildering array of accommodation options in London, The Rockwell stands out for its handy location, great-value rates and serene feel. Once 2 Victorian townhouses, then a budget hotel, it underwent a £9m refurbishment to become the peaceful city haven it is today. Outside it may look like its residential neighbours, but step into the lobby and you're greeted by a warm welcome and a striking combination of original floor tiles, deep sofas and contemporary lighting. It's upmarket yet homely, and very relaxing.
The unpretentious elegance extends to the 40 bedrooms (big comfy beds and neutral colours, jazzed up with vibrant wallpaper or textiles), and the food - a short menu of classics, cooked well and served in the high-ceilinged dining room or via 24-hour room service. Out back is a courtyard where you can kick back with a G&T and soak up the evening sun, surrounded by olive trees in giant flowerpots that make you feel like Alice in Wonderland. And when it comes to exploring, you’re a short stroll from the Natural History Museum, Harrods and the restaurants of the King's Road, and only 5 minutes' walk from Earl’s Court Tube.
Highs
- Great value for money
- Within walking distance of Kensington and Knightsbridge’s shops and museums, and near the Tube to zip all over London
- The blend of Victorian features (mosaic floors, stone stairs) and modern details (Neisha Crosland wallpaper, White Company toiletries)
- 24-hour reception and a 12pm check-out: perfect for lazy lie-ins (or recovering from a night on the town!)
- A tranquil courtyard (a rarity in London), plus 2 Garden Rooms with private terraces
Lows
- Although spotlessly clean, it's in need of an update - since our first visit the rooms have grown tired and furnishings worn
- Set on a busy main road; there's double glazing but ask for a room at the back if you're a light sleeper
- A budget feel to the in-room drink facilities (instant coffee with UHT milk) and breakfast (carton juices, packaged cheeses)
- The dining room lacks atmosphere on quieter days
- No in-room information folder
Best time to go
London is a fantastic year-round destination. Spring is lovely because the parks are flowering; the British summer spirit is infectious and alfresco dining is suddenly everywhere; autumn is quieter, but the trees are a glorious red-gold; winter can be cold and wet, but if you come at Christmas time, the light displays are amazing.
Our top tips
Pack an umbrella - we got caught in a downpour on both days, and the hotel does not have any for guests' use.
Location
The Rockwell is situated in London's popular Kensington area, 5 minutes from Earl's Court Tube, 10 minutes from the Gloucester Road Tube, and a 30-minute drive from London Heathrow.
By Air:
London has several airports - Heathrow (21km), Gatwick (48km), Luton (76km) and Stansted (77km). Most scheduled airlines fly into Heathrow and/or Gatwick; budget airlines use Gatwick, Luton or Stansted - click on the links below for a list.
You can take a taxi from all these airports, but this can prove expensive and all have fast train links to central London - the Heathrow Express to Paddington station, the Gatwick Express to Victoria, the Stansted Express to Liverpool Street, and various services from Luton. All stations are an easy Tube journey from the hotel.
By Car:
Driving around London can be stressful - and parking's a nightmare - so most people rely on public transport. However, if you want to hire a car to explore the surrounding areas, see our car rental recommendations.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to the UK and getting around
Airports:
- London Heathrow 21.0 km LHR
- London Gatwick 48.0 km LGW
Other:
- Beach 90.0 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 7 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape