First Impressions
Exquisite Studio #4 sits on a quiet residential street in London’s Islington neighborhood, and honestly, the name isn’t overselling it. This three-star property has that cozy, lived-in feel that makes you forget you’re staying in a rental — it’s more like crashing at a friend’s well-appointed flat. The building itself is typical Victorian terrace housing, which means character in spades but also those quirky British touches like slightly uneven floors and windows that require a particular technique to open properly.
The Space
The studio is compact but thoughtfully designed, with everything you need without feeling cramped. The kitchen area is surprisingly functional for such a small space — I mean, you’re not going to host dinner parties, but you can definitely handle breakfast and simple meals. The room flows well from sleeping area to living space, and there’s actually decent storage, which is rare in London rentals. What I really appreciated was how much natural light gets in during the day; those big Victorian windows make all the difference.
Location & Neighborhood
Hanmer Walk is tucked away from the main roads, so it’s genuinely quiet at night — something you’ll appreciate in a city that never really sleeps. You’re about a 10-minute walk to Caledonian Road tube station, which isn’t the most glamorous stop on the network, but it gets you into central London quickly enough. The real gem here is how close you are to Chapel Market, this brilliant little street market that locals actually use (not just tourists taking photos). There’s also a proper pub around the corner — The Drapers Arms — that does solid food and isn’t trying too hard to be trendy.
Practical Considerations
Let me be honest about what you’re getting into: this is London budget accommodation done right, but it’s still budget accommodation. The bathroom is small (though perfectly functional), and you’ll hear your neighbors occasionally — it’s an old building with thin walls. But the place is clean, the bed is comfortable, and everything works as it should. The host is responsive, which matters more than you might think when you’re dealing with unfamiliar appliances or need local recommendations.
Why Guests Love It
What makes this place work is that it doesn’t pretend to be something it isn’t. You’re getting a genuine London experience in a real neighborhood, not some sanitized tourist bubble. The 7.4 rating feels about right — it’s not going to blow your mind, but it delivers exactly what it promises. For the price point, you’re hard-pressed to find something better in this part of London, especially somewhere this quiet and well-connected. It’s the kind of place where you can actually imagine living, not just passing through, and that makes all the difference when you’re trying to get a feel for the city.
To book hotel in London for fashion week buzz, travelers reserve early to pair Westminster sunrise walks with evening pub rituals.
You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.
