Overview
First Impressions
The Rose of York sits quietly on Petersham Road in Richmond upon Thames, and honestly, you might walk past it if you’re not looking carefully. It’s not trying to be flashy — just a charming Victorian building that feels more like staying at someone’s well-appointed home than a commercial hotel. The moment you step inside, you’ll notice it’s one of those places that doesn’t fit into neat categories, which is exactly what makes it interesting.
The Neighborhood Feel
Richmond upon Thames has this lovely village-within-London vibe that locals are pretty protective about, and the Rose of York gets that completely. You’re walking distance from Richmond Park (seriously, just a few minutes), and the Thames path is right there when you want a proper riverside stroll. The high street’s got everything you need, but it’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself chatting with shopkeepers rather than rushing past them.
What Makes It Different
This unique boutique hotel doesn’t chase after official star ratings, and I actually respect that approach. Each room feels individually designed rather than stamped out from some corporate template — you know what I mean? Some have these lovely period features, others lean more contemporary, but they all have character. The bathrooms are properly done up, and there’s attention to details that bigger chain hotels often miss.
Daily Rhythms
The restaurant downstairs serves decent food, though it’s not trying to win any Michelin stars — just solid, well-prepared meals that hit the spot after a day wandering around London. Breakfast is particularly good, with proper English options alongside lighter continental fare. The staff seem to actually work here long-term rather than passing through, which makes a difference in how they treat guests.
Why Guests Keep Coming Back
Here’s the thing about the Rose of York — it’s got this relaxed confidence that you don’t find everywhere. The location gives you easy access to central London (Richmond station is a short walk), but you’re staying somewhere that feels like an escape from the city’s intensity. Parking is available, which anyone who’s driven in London will appreciate. It’s the sort of place that grows on you, especially if you prefer character over corporate polish and want to experience London from a proper neighborhood base rather than just another tourist bubble.
Guest reviews
"Great, comfy clean stay"
We have stopped here twice now. Anna is exceptional, she let us in early to get changed and use the toilet. She is a credit to the hotel. The rooms are quite basic but the cleanliness is 100%. I feel sad for this great place as the bar and restaurant are so warm, cosy and clean but there was nobody else in at 9pm. It could do with an upgrade in terms of menu and beer choices but equally would be awful to see this gem close
What could be improved: It was too quiet and the rooms need an upgrade
15 December 2025
"Very good"
great breakfast - eaten in front of a roaring fire - couldnt be better
12 December 2025
"Very good"
Very comfortable beds, good location and parking on site.
What could be improved: No TV's in rooms. Expensive for drinks
10 November 2025
"Very good"
The location is perfect, less than an hour into Central London and close to all amenities in Richmond. The Thames path is only about 5 minutes away and the free car parking (no booking needed) was fantastic.
The staff were friendly and did their best to help when we had a problem. The room was spacious and warm (we visited in late October), with tea & coffee facilities. Towels were great and beds comfy too.
What could be improved: The curtains weren't quite wide enough and there were some areas of the room that needed dusting. Our toilet broke during the evening (10:30pm) and couldn't be fixed which was tricky but the staff helped us as much as possible. We were sad to go home!
26 October 2025
"Very good"
Quant pub with rooms
Good breakfast
What could be improved: No muffins for eggs, benidict
after travelling all day to find a few things weren't available on bar menu was abit disappointing
12 October 2025
"A warm welcome and a clean room."
It was in an excellent position. Parking was vital. Warm welcome and east check in. Room 10 was a ground floor room with secure easy access. It was very clean if a little tired. The bathroom seemed brand new. Towels were large and fluffy. Tea and coffee facilities were adequate. The breakfast was good.
What could be improved: Only one bedside cabinet and the lighting was poor.
5 October 2025
"Good"
The staff were so friendly and.the rooms were comfortable and very clean
What could be improved: It's sad to say but it's a big building that is clearly struggling to maintain. Some of the facilities are old and out dated but the staff and location make up for it
28 September 2025
"Lovely position being near the river, the park, buses and Lovely walks along the ruver"
In particular the professional way Anna helped everybody - no matter how big or small
What could be improved: Lack of heating- although radiators were in bedroom and bathroom.
When mentioned we were just told to turn the switch.
My husband was an engineer and no way could we turn either radiators on. Just unfortunately it was a chilly evening
24 September 2025
"Comfortable and convenient"
Clean and quiet. Lovely staff. Easy to park.
What could be improved: Room 1 was right on the road so traffic noise inevitably. No hot water as busy for weddings but last day had some.
25 August 2025
"Great place to stay with friendly staff and good food, with loads of parking."
The location was perfect for Richmond Park, was also reasonable priced for the location.
What could be improved: There was a noisy fan that came on regularly throughout the night.
28 July 2025
