Radisson Blu South Kensington, London – A Review
Radisson Blu South Kensington occupies a row of ten white stucco Regency townhouses on Cromwell Road. When this road was created during the nineteenth century, it was named for Richard Cromwell, son of Oliver Cromwell who once owned a house on the site. This elegant property was once a family residence for the Vanderbilt family.
An American dynasty famous for its huge wealth accumulated through the construction of the railroad. 68 – 86 Cromwell Road, London was just one of the many impressive mansions and residences owned by this family both in America and England. When Cromwell Road In those days it was not the major road it is today. 68-86 survived major reconstructions in the area and was converted into a hotel. When this Grade II Listed building was acquired by Radisson Blu it was initially part of the Radisson Edwardian group but later rebranded to Radisson Blu.
Radisson Blu lounge area
It has also undergone a name change from the Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel to Radisson Blu South Kensington. This new name reflects its excellent location in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
Who for
Visitors to London, whether for leisure or business, will enjoy the delightful fusion of traditional England with modern comforts in this boutique hotel, which caters to independent travellers, couples, families, small groups, and business meetings. The latter can easily be accommodated in one of the twelve meeting rooms that include an elegant function room for special events.
Special Function Room at the Radisson Blu South Kensington
Accommodation
The unique townhouse layout means the 215 rooms are different shapes and sizes, but they are all equally comfortable as each one features a top-of-the-range Vispring mattress and top quality Egyptian cotton bedding. The hotel’s suite is spacious and filled with natural light, offering additional comforts and more areas to relax. There are six categories of rooms, from Standard Singles and Doubles to the larger Superior and Premium Rooms. And for that special stay the Deluxe Rooms and one Junior Suite. Family Rooms are also available. All the rooms have an impressive array of amenities, including free WiFi, a Nespresso coffee machine, a professional hair dryer and a fridge.
Premium Room at Radisson Blu South Kensington
Food & Drink
Scoff & Banter is the on-site restaurant offering traditional British dishes from fish & chips to Afternoon Tea. Its Farmer’s Selection celebrates local produce alongside some contemporary European dishes. Who can resist the Italian dessert, tiramisu?
The restaurant is open for all-day dining from midday to 10 pm. In-room dining is also available 24 hours a day. The in-room dining menu features a handpicked selection of dishes for breakfast, à la carte menu, after-hours dining and an extensive list of beverages. The menus are changed to reflect the season and the produce available. Breakfast is served in Scoff & Banter and a continental buffet is supplemented with a choice of hot dishes from a menu.
After a busy day working or sightseeing relax by the marble fireplace, a beautiful centrepiece in the cosy, unpretentious bar area.
Lounge Bar at the Radisson Blu South Kensington
Facilities
Facilities at the Radisson Blu South Kensington include cosy lounges, twelve meeting rooms including a special function room, individual, quiet working spaces as well as a business centre and well-equipped gymnasium which is open 24 hours. The multilingual staff are available to assist and enhance a stay here.
Gymnasium at the Radisson Blu South Kensington
How much
Good deals at this hotel start from £124.95 per night for Radisson Rewards members (and other designated categories such as Senior Citizens) based on two adults staying in a Standard Room (no inclusions). Check the hotel website for special rates and early booking discounts for indulgent treats.
What’s nearby
The Royal Albert Hall, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria &Albert Museum are just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. It is withing a 20-minute stroll from many upmarket shops including Harrods and Harvey Nichols. Its proximity to Gloucester Road underground station and bus stops means the iconic sights of London, including London Bridge and the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace are just a short journey away.
London Bridge
VERDICT: The excellent location of this hotel, stylish, well-equipped rooms, and the ready smiles on the faces of the staff make this a delightful place to stay when visiting London.
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