Overview
First Impressions
When I first stumbled upon Oliver’s Place in Holborn – 2 Double Beds, 1 Sofa Bed, Great Location, I’ll be honest — the name pretty much tells you what you’re getting. This four-star property on Grays Inn Road doesn’t pretend to be anything fancy, but that’s actually part of its charm. You know what caught me off guard though? The space feels way bigger than most London accommodations I’ve stayed in, and trust me, I’ve squeezed into some proper shoe boxes in this city.
The Setup
The apartment layout works brilliantly for families or groups who want their own space without the hotel fuss. Those two double beds aren’t crammed together like an afterthought — there’s actually breathing room between them. The sofa bed in the living area means you can spread out properly, which is rare in London where every square foot costs a fortune. I mean, having a proper kitchen setup changes everything when you’re staying more than a couple nights.
Location Reality Check
Grays Inn Road puts you right in that sweet spot between Bloomsbury and King’s Cross — honestly, it’s one of those areas locals know but tourists often miss. You’re a ten-minute walk from Russell Square (great for morning runs, by the way), and King’s Cross Station is close enough that you can actually make those early Eurostar trains without breaking a sweat. The Camden bit in the address might confuse you, but you’re really more in legal London — all those historic Inns of Court are practically on your doorstep.
What Works Well
The thing about Oliver’s Place is that it solves the London accommodation puzzle differently than most hotels. Instead of cramming you into a tiny room with a kettle and calling it luxury, you get actual living space where you can unpack, cook a proper meal, or just sprawl on the couch after walking your feet off around the city. The beds are comfortable enough — nothing spectacular, but you’ll sleep fine after a day of sightseeing. And there’s something refreshing about having your own front door instead of navigating hotel corridors.
Why Guests Love It
Look, this isn’t going to wow you with marble bathrooms or concierge service, but it delivers exactly what it promises. Families particularly seem to get it — having space to actually live rather than just sleep makes a huge difference when you’re dealing with jetlagged kids or trying to plan your next day’s adventures. The 7.7 rating feels about right; it’s solid, dependable, and priced fairly for what you get in central London. Plus, when you tell people you stayed “in Holborn,” it sounds much more impressive than admitting you were squeezed into some chain hotel by the airport.
Guest reviews
"Superb"
Lovely place to stay . . Close to tube station , shops and restaurants. Easy to check in and out. Great selection of utensils etc in kitchen. Nice toiletries.
What could be improved: Please note that a 'deposit' is required to stay here which is payable when you check in.One bedroom was a little noisey at times as it was near the main road so not ideal for light sleepers. Please be warned that the key collection and drop off is a walk from the accomodation. You must take this into consideration when returning keys. Check out is 10AM however keys must be returned by then so you will need to leave 10 -15 mins before 10AM.
14 December 2025
"Very good"
I was in London for work; I stayed there for only two nights. My only regret was not staying longer. The check-in process was interesting, easy, and smooth. The apartment was beautiful; every room was very clean and well equipped. The location was central, with both Chancery Lane and Holborn Underground stations nearby. I would highly recommend this apartment.
12 October 2025
"Great location, lovely apartment but new mattresses desperately needed."
This property is in a great location, within walking distance of Covent Garden and other attractions. It’s in a quieter part of the city so no issues with noise. The living room is spacious and comfortable and everything is spotlessly clean.
What could be improved: First of all the fact that you have to walk to another location to pick up the keys is a bit of a faff, it’s only about a 5/8 minute walk but when you’ve just got off a train and have your luggage with you it’s not ideal. When we arrived we were impressed with the apartment and its character, however when we came to go to bed we discovered the mattresses were less than comfortable, they were either very old or cheap as no support in them at all and you could feel the springs through them. The first nights sleep wasn’t a good one! Investing in some new mattresses needs to be a priority I would say. The only other negative I would say is the size of the bathroom, I know this can’t be helped but the pictures don’t clearly show how tiny it is, there’s barely any room to move when you’re sat on the loo! Also the bracket for the shower had come loose and was hanging by a thread the shower head was at an awkward angle and kept moving, it was a case of get in, quick shower and out.
The final gripe is the £100 deposit we had to
pay was supposed to be refunded 7 business days after you vacate, I have had to chase this twice now and it was finally refunded today 2 whole weeks after our stay!
10 October 2025
"Great flat in the heart of London"
This is a lovely flat in a great location in Holborn. It's a 20 minute stroll to Leicester Square, Convent Garden etc and even closer to things like the British Museum. There's even a Coop opposite as well as a whole host of great bars and cafes. The flat is really quite spacious, well equipped (especially the kitchen) and quiet with access to the communal courtyard at the back if needed. Highly recommended!
What could be improved: There's not much to dislike really - we had a great time and would definitely come back again.
11 July 2025
"Superb"
Location. Facilities.
What could be improved: Nil
30 May 2025
"A place to explore London from"
The location was great (close to restaurants, West End etc) and the facilities were good. It was lovely to have space and a lounge to relax in after exploring London.
What could be improved: The inside of the microwave had the internal laminate flaking off, the toilet brush was falling apart, the tone of the emails sent to us were like a school teacher ready to chastise.
23 October 2025
"Very good"
Nice stay with family. Love the kitchen facility for cooking. Fairly clean and Value for money!
What could be improved: The key collection and drop-off are not very convenient, as we have to carry the suitcases to travel to different locations from the apartment. The introduction is very clear but not clear at a glance. You need to read the information carefully to find the apartment number in the building.
16 July 2025
"Stay in Paris"
Location was excellent. Apartment was beautifully done and had everything we needed.
2 July 2025
"Passable"
Location great
What could be improved: Issues with property, door handles to rooms where coming lose , kitchen cupborard didn’t close without lifting it up . Been flood kitchen smelt damp
18 November 2025
"Agréable séjour dans un appartement bien situé et bien équipé."
Appartement très bien situé, avec des stations de bus et de métro à proximité, donc on accède facilement aux lieux qu'on souhaite visiter. Très spacieux et bien équipé. Le quartier compte de nombreux restaurants pour se faire plaisir et des commerces de proximité pour faire ses courses et dîner en famille dans l'appartement. Belle expérience.
En plus sa situation dans un ancien immeuble typiquement londonien en brique nous a ravis !
5 November 2025
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