Hotel Review: The Kensington, London

Enviably situated on Queen's Gate in the desirable surrounds of South Kensington, the hotel offers a gateway to some terrific museums and a wealth of nearby boutiques and restaurants. South Kensington tube is just a short walk away, allowing easy access to the West End. The Natural History and Science Museums and the V&A are close by, as are the shops of Knightsbridge.

By car: From Birmingham, the drive takes two hours; from Oxford it's 1 hour and 10 minutes.

By train: Two hours from Birmingham and one and a half hours from Winchester. Book trains to London.

Very cool with more than a hint of traditional style. Right from the entrance with its old-fashioned Pashley bicycle propped up outside and metal elephant sculpture in the lobby, the hotel feels distinctive yet thoroughly welcoming. Look out for some Victorian grandeur with high ceilings, open fireplaces and a wrought iron staircase.

The tone is set right from the smart entrance with the bowler-hatted doorman, while elsewhere service is helpful and not over-attentive. The hotel has a well-equipped gym, or if you want fresh air, exercising or jogging routes are available from the concierge. In-room spa treatments can also be arranged.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Fitness centre
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Room service
• Spa & wellness centre
• Room service
• Free WiFi

All the rooms and suites feel classy and opulent - some have four-posters and roll-top baths. From the drape curtains and super comfortable beds to the Nespresso coffee machines, everything has been finely and thoughtfully crafted. The bathrooms are lovely and have Malin + Goetz products.

Room types: Cosy, Classic Queen/ King/Twin, Deluxe Queen/ King, Family Room, Suite, Studio Suite, Luxury Suite, Brompton Suite, Knightbridge Suite, Kensington Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathrooms, coffee-making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

Make sure to have a drink in the glamorous K-Bar with its polished brass and oak - it has the feel of a gentleman's club but not overly so. The Town House restaurant is a super space, divided into three rooms. The British-based menu is nicely wholesome, and the afternoon teas and breakfasts are delicious.

Town House: British cuisine. Mains range from £16 to £28.

The K Bar: informal bar offering, serving up bar bites and cocktails. Food prices range from £7 - £9.50.