Ibis House by Viridian Apartments

First Impressions

Walking up to Ibis House by Viridian Apartments on Worple Way, you immediately get the sense that this isn’t your typical hotel setup. It’s actually a converted residential building that’s been thoughtfully transformed into serviced apartment-style accommodations, and honestly, that works in its favor. The entrance feels more like stepping into a well-maintained London townhouse than a corporate hotel lobby — which I mean as a complete compliment.

The Apartment Experience

What really sets this four-star property apart is how each unit functions as a proper mini-home rather than just a place to crash. The room I stayed in had this compact but surprisingly functional layout, with a proper kitchenette that actually gets used (not one of those sad hotel attempts with a broken coffee maker). You know what I appreciated most? The washing machine tucked into the bathroom — sounds weird, but after a few days of exploring London, being able to do laundry without hunting down a laundromat was brilliant.

Richmond Neighborhood Perks

Here’s something most travel sites won’t tell you about staying in Richmond — it feels like a secret that locals are keeping to themselves. You’re technically still in London, but there’s this village-y atmosphere that makes you want to linger over coffee at the local cafés. The Thames path is literally a ten-minute walk away, and if you’re into that whole “escape the tourist crowds” thing, Richmond Park with its roaming deer is right there. Plus, the Tube connection into central London is actually pretty solid when you need your Big Ben fix.

Daily Practicalities

The staff here operates more like helpful neighbors than hotel employees, which fits the whole apartment vibe perfectly. There’s no fancy concierge desk or 24-hour room service, but there’s something refreshing about the straightforward approach. Parking can be arranged if you’re driving, though honestly, you probably won’t need a car much in this area. The local Waitrose is close enough for grocery runs, and there’s a decent restaurant scene within walking distance — I particularly liked having options beyond the usual hotel dining situation.

Why Guests Love It

Look, if you’re expecting marble lobbies and turndown service, this isn’t your place. But if you want to experience London more like a temporary resident than a tourist passing through, Ibis House really delivers on that promise. The combination of having your own space with proper amenities, being in Richmond’s surprisingly charming neighborhood, and still having easy access to central London creates this sweet spot that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s the kind of place where you actually end up cooking breakfast instead of rushing out to find coffee, and somehow that makes the whole trip feel more authentic.