Nestled in the vibrant heart of South Kensington, The Kensington stands as a beacon of luxury and elegance, embodying the charm of its surroundings. This exquisite five-star hotel is part of The Doyle Collection and is artfully composed of seven classic white Victorian townhouses, each contributing to the property’s unique architectural character. From the moment I was invited to experience the iconic location, I knew it would be an unforgettable experience alongside my partner. SETTING THE SCENE I could hardly contain my enthusiasm as I was greeted by the stunning façade, which showcases the timeless beauty of Victorian design, complete with intricate detailing and a grand entrance. The interior features a harmonious blend of contemporary sophistication and traditional luxury; every detail has been meticulously curated. There are elegant lounges and cosy nooks for those seeking relaxation, ideal for unwinding with a good book or enjoying a quiet conversation. My favourite detail was a mirror that had endured two world wars and witnessed so much history. I could almost sense the whispers of those who had strolled the same halls before me, adjusting their looks and stealing glances over the years. REST YOUR HEAD With a total of 116 spacious guest rooms and an impressive selection of 30 luxurious suites, each room is designed to provide a welcoming atmosphere, complete with modern amenities and thoughtful touches. We enjoyed a night in a Luxury Studio Suite that boasted eye-catching Asian Scenic Wallpaper by Thibaut with matching floor-to-ceiling curtains. The stunning four-poster bed, with a rich and dark wood frame, became the room’s centrepiece, inviting us to sink into its plush comfort. Surrounding the bed was elegant furniture, including a beautifully crafted dresser and a cosy seating area. As we settled in, we couldn’t help but appreciate the meticulous attention to detail that went into the suite’s design. The stylish bathroom was a true oasis of luxury, featuring a spacious shower and bathtub, marble countertops, plush towels and toiletries adorning the shelves. FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD We had a delightful three-course dinner at the Town House, a charming on-site restaurant known for its warm ambience and exceptional culinary offerings. The evening began with exquisite Pan-Fired Scallops with corn purée, sweet potato crisp, chilli and spring onion that set the tone for the meal, showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients artfully presented. For the main course, I was treated to a Fillet of Black Cod paired with a miso glaze, pak choy and sticky jasmine rice. Finally, we concluded our meal with Vanilla Crème Brûlée served with fresh strawberries and shortbread biscuits. It was a delightful combination of textures and flavours, leaving us with a lingering sense of satisfaction. After a restful night’s sleep, we made our way downstairs for breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, accompanied by the cheerful chatter of fellow guests and the clatter of dishes, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere in the cosy dining area. The menu offered a delightful array of high-quality options, and I enjoyed St. Ewe Eggs with soldiers, a delightful platter of fresh fruit and a few pastries. With our bellies full and spirits high, we were ready to step out into the heart of London, ready to explore all the adventures that awaited us. A PASSION FOR FASHION The Kensington has partnered with the world-famous Victoria and Albert Museum to provide guests access to anticipated cultural exhibitions when booking an overnight stay. We had the pleasure of attending the NAOMI: In Fashion, exploring the iconic career of Naomi Campbell. The exhibit showcases a collection of the supermodel’s career across four decades – showcasing around 100 looks, including designs from leading global designers such as Alexander McQueen and Chanel. EXCHANGING VOWS With stylish interiors and flexible spaces, The Kensington is perfect for intimate city weddings. The dedicated and experienced events team will work with nearlyweds to create bespoke and tailored occasions. Ideal as an elegant dining venue, The White Room is the signature entertaining space with plenty of natural light and elegant heritage tones complemented by statement lighting, original artworks and cool contemporary furniture. The space can cater for up to 50 guests standing or 34 dining and can be interconnected with The Library to create a magnificent space for up to 84 guests standing or 58 dining. With bespoke menus, carefully chosen wine, handcrafted cocktails, table settings and flowers, thought and personalisation will go into every detail. THE FINAL VERDICT The Kensington exemplifies The Doyle Collection’s dedication to outstanding service and hospitality, ensuring guests are treated with care and appreciation. With its deep-rooted history and focus on delivering exceptional experiences, the property welcomes guests to forge unforgettable memories amid one of the globe’s most lively cities. We eagerly await our next visit to make even more cherished memories. City loving Editor Olivia Gibson enjoyed a lavish experience at The Kensington in London BOOK IT: www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-kensington-hotel Scan to view video 28
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