Overview
First Impressions
Walking up to Presidential Apartments Kensington on Barkston Gardens, you immediately notice this isn’t your typical hotel setup. The Victorian townhouse facade blends seamlessly with the residential street, and honestly, that’s part of its charm. This four-star property feels more like staying in someone’s well-appointed London home than a commercial hotel — which makes sense, given it’s actually serviced apartments.
The Neighborhood Feel
Kensington is one of those areas where you can pretend you’re a proper Londoner for a few days. The tree-lined street is quiet enough that you’ll actually sleep well, but Earl’s Court tube station is just a five-minute walk away. I mean, you’re essentially equidistant from South Kensington’s museums and the shopping chaos of Oxford Street. The local Tesco Express around the corner becomes your best friend when you realize you can actually cook here.
Living Space That Works
Here’s what surprised me — each apartment genuinely feels like a place you could live in for weeks. The kitchen isn’t just for show; it’s got a proper-sized fridge, dishwasher, and enough counter space to spread out. My room had this sort of understated elegance — nothing flashy, but the bed was comfortable and there was actual closet space (not just a sad little wardrobe). The sitting area with its own TV means you’re not cramped into just a bedroom.
Daily Practicalities
What I appreciated most was how this place handles the little things that matter during a longer stay in London. There’s a weekly housekeeping service that doesn’t feel intrusive, and the staff at reception genuinely know the neighborhood — they’ll tell you which pub has the best Sunday roast or where to grab decent coffee before 7 AM. The WiFi actually works consistently, which you’d think would be standard but honestly isn’t always the case.
Why Guests Love It
You know what makes Presidential Apartments Kensington work? It’s the balance between independence and support. Families particularly seem to love having space to spread out without paying West End hotel prices, while business travelers appreciate being able to maintain some sort of normal routine. The 8.1 rating reflects exactly what you get — solid, reliable accommodation that doesn’t try to be something it’s not, but delivers where it counts.
Locals suggest to book apartments in London around South Bank for riverside dining, market stops, and easy city crossings.
Guest reviews
"Very good"
Our apartment was spacious which is rare for London and especially for hotels. The location was perfect, few minutes walk to Earls court,many restaurants near by. Will definately stay there again, perfect for family trip.
What could be improved: The staff should be more professional, they barely said hello when you greeted them.
8 December 2025
"Warm, clean and comfortable room with lovely staff and great location."
It was warm and comfortable. Housekeeping was exceptional. Staff were great. Location convenient for tube and food shops.
What could be improved: If you were going to be really picky, a larger sofa and television would be good.
6 December 2025
"Superb"
We had a wonderful stay here! The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, and the location couldn’t be better — close to everything we needed. We were pleasantly surprised to find a washing machine in the apartment, which we didn’t expect but absolutely appreciated.
We arrived around 11 AM (well before the official check-in time), and since the room was already ready, they kindly let us check in early. That made such a difference after traveling.
Overall, a great experience — comfortable, convenient, and excellent service. Highly recommend!
What could be improved: The only thing to note is that the apartment was a bit chilly at times, and there was some draft coming from the windows. It wasn’t a major issue, but something worth improving.
3 December 2025
"Good"
My second time to stay here. All good
What could be improved: The room was cold and tried to turn the heating on but wasn’t working
22 November 2025
"Superb"
Great location, safe, elegant, nice pubs very convenient for supermarkets & co (one M&S just down the road).
Spotless clean.
Appliances perfectly functioning.
What could be improved: Our room was small, the bed almost didn’t fit in the bedroom and it was a struggle for one of us to get in. The bathroom was tiny and old. A lampshade was torn in the living room. We asked not to be in the basement, having read the reviews, and were luckily accommodated. It’s unclear whether our less nice, less spacious apartment type is reserved for people booking with a discount or whether it’s a matter of chance. In any case, for our type of apartment and its conditions the full price would have been way too high.
19 November 2025
"Would definitely recommend & visit again"
Location excellent, staff very helpful
What could be improved: Room temperature very hot, instructions on how to reduce thermostat would be helpful
17 November 2025
"Overall a decent good hotel just wish that their washing machine has a proper dryer"
Good location
What could be improved: We were given a lower ground unit and it’s dark. The washing machine dryer did not work despite the staff saying that it has a drying function so my clothings were wet n I have to Darry heavy wet clothings to my next destination.
16 November 2025
"Very good"
The hotel is super convenient and value for money, the staff and especially Michael were welcoming and super helpful whenever we needed anything.
Also the location is a great plus, it’s very near to Earl’s Court station which is a very well connected station, as well as M&S foods and several grocery stores.
What could be improved: The room wooden floors could use an uplift as they cracked all the time while walking on them.
4 November 2025
"We will be back !"
Really friendly and effiicient staff. The location was just fantastic, so close to an underground station and all the museums.
What could be improved: The rooms could do with a little updating.
3 November 2025
"Safe, comfortable and great location"
The location was excellent. Rooms were great size. We were on the basement floor. It had everything you needed
What could be improved: Bathrooms were a bit dated but that wasn't an issue
30 October 2025