Stanhope Gardens, South Kensington

Description

Through the turnstiles

Just two minutes’ walk from Exhibition Road lies a square so perfectly Londonesque, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a painting. This is Stanhope Gardens, a square with a residents-only lawn at its centre, so mature it's practically a park.

The museums will surely supply you with all the entertainment you could possibly desire, but make sure you reserve a little time to stroll in Hyde Park, to shop on High Street Kensington and to eat out in the area’s many incredible restaurants. Could there be a better base from which to explore the city? We very much doubt it.

Curatorial unit

Your hosts are an Australian couple with two young children. They’ve lived in London for a number of years, and are now relocating down under. But, understandably, they’re not ready to say goodbye to Stanhope Gardens just yet…

Rare object

With its views of the Natural History Museum peeking through the treetops, Stanhope Gardens feels connected to the city, yet equally, tremendously at peace. Step between the pillars of the front door and up the stairs to find yourself in a sumptuously spacious hallway. The décor is smartly luxurious, reminiscent of that of a rather good hotel. With its suede couch, classic furniture and marble fireplace the sitting room is gently neutral, while the kitchen provides all you need to fix yourself up a sustaining breakfast before a day on your feet.

The two double bedrooms both boast lovely London views and some excellent artwork- make sure you look out for a pair of Banksy prints. The master has snazzy slate grey en suite, while the guest double is just down the corridor from the pale family bathroom. Both, naturally, filled with our delicious White Company toiletries.

Exit through the gift shop

From the Babylon Roof Gardens to the Serpentine to Harrods, Kensington is, quite simply, a London visitor’s paradise. The museums are free, which is good news for those planning a spree in nearby Harvey Nichols, and, for your groceries, why not check out Europe’s largest branch of Whole Foods? All this, and you’re right in the heart of zone 1, with the West End less than fifteen minutes away.