Henley House Hotel

This cute boutique hotel is situated on a leafy West London side street, amid a row of almost identical red-brick Victorian townhouses overlooking a picturesque residential square. Interiors blend classic Victorian features with modern design elements, creating a a cozy, homey atmosphere. The small lobby is decorated with a brown leather couches, large wooden bookcase, and bespoke furniture finished in glistening Quartz stone. Reproductions of artwork by Banksy are hung in the hallways, adding an urban touch. High bay windows let in plenty of natural light, while soft jazz music creates a relaxing, laid-back ambience. During the day, suitcases are stored around the front desk, belonging to guests waiting to check in. The lobby is mostly quiet, with guests simply passing through on their way in or out. The bright, airy breakfast conservatory is located at the back of the property, which looks out onto a small garden. A cute bicycle installation hangs from the ceiling, and there's a mural of the London skyline for added artsy effect. The hotel attracts couples and families on short trips, though business travelers also stay here, particularly during the week. 

This hotel's location -- in the Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in West London -- is a huge selling point. It's a convenient two-minute walk from Earl's Court Underground station, making it easy to get around the city. It's convenient for business travelers too, as Kensington Olympia -- where many conferences are held -- is just one stop away on the District Line. The hotel is situated on a quiet side street overlooking picturesque Barkston Gardens, just off busy Earl's Court Road. Pubs, supermarkets, restaurants, and shops are all just around the corner. The Natural History Museum is a 15-minute walk, while Stamford Bridge Stadium is a 10-minute drive. Popular attractions such as The London Eye, Tate Modern, and Westminster can all be reached in about 15 to 20 minutes by the underground, while the Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Palace, and the Serpentine Gallery are around a 25-minute walk from the hotel. The shops of Oxford Street and lively Soho entertainment district are 20 minutes away via tube. Heathrow Airport is around a one-hour drive from the hotel, or 40 minutes from Earl's Court Underground station. Gatwick Airport is a 90-minute drive, or one hour by public transport. 

All 21 rooms are clean, stylish, and modern, though they vary in size. Some are considerably smaller than others, and can feel cramped for guests with a lot of luggage. The color scheme is neutral, with warm gray carpets, all-white walls, and crisp white Egyptian cotton bedding. Double or Twin beds are brightened up with Union Jack pillows, padded leather headboards, and glowing LED lights. Black-and-white photographs of the London skyline adorn the walls, while big windows allow plenty of natural light to pour in. Most rooms lack memorable views, though some have balconies overlooking Barkston Gardens, as well as original stained-glass window panes. All rooms have modern amenities like air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with Freeview channels, mini-fridges, electric kettles, iPod docks, phones, safes, and international charging stations. A small pouch with a universal adapter plug hangs on the back of each door, which is a thoughtful touch for international guests. Free bottled water, free robes, and free Wi-Fi are available in all rooms. Ironing facilities must be requested from the front desk. Bathrooms are small and modern, with glittering Quartz tiles, glass-enclosed rainfall showers, magnifying mirrors, and free toiletries. Tube hairdryers are provided, though these look a little old-fashioned in comparison to the rest of the decor. 

In terms of facilities, this property could be considered more of a bed-and-breakfast than a hotel. It lacks a full-service restaurant and bar, though there are plenty of drinking and dining options along Earl's Court Road. A free continental breakfast buffet is served daily in the conservatory, consisting of cereals, boiled eggs, meats, cheeses, fruit juices, fresh pastries, and coffee. There is no fitness center or computer facilities, but guests are free to use the printer at reception if required. The hotel has an elevator, though this is tiny and can be inconvenient for guests with a lot of luggage. Other services include luggage storage, free newspapers in the lobby, and free Wi-Fi in all areas. Guests should be aware that the front desk has limited opening hours.