146 Studios

First Impressions

146 Studios sits on a tree-lined Georgian street in Marylebone, and honestly, you could walk right past it if you’re not paying attention. The building itself is classic London — that cream-colored stucco facade that blends seamlessly with everything else on Gloucester Place. Inside though, it’s immediately clear this isn’t your typical four-star hotel. The lobby feels more like a modern apartment building than a traditional hotel, which makes sense once you see the accommodations.

Location & Neighborhood

You’re in prime London territory here, just a few minutes’ walk from Baker Street station. What I love about this spot is that you’re close enough to Oxford Street’s chaos (about 10 minutes on foot), but the actual street feels residential and quiet. Regent’s Park is literally around the corner — I mean, you can see the trees from some of the upper floors. The Wallace Collection is practically next door, and there are proper local pubs scattered throughout the area that tourists haven’t completely taken over yet.

The Studios

Here’s where 146 Studios gets interesting — each room is essentially a mini apartment with its own kitchenette. The spaces vary quite a bit; some are compact but clever, others surprisingly spacious. My studio had this weird L-shaped layout that somehow worked perfectly, with a proper dining table and enough counter space to actually cook something more ambitious than instant noodles. The beds are comfortable (though not spectacular), and the bathrooms are modern without trying too hard to be trendy.

Daily Life

There’s no traditional restaurant on-site, which initially threw me off, but it actually works well with the whole apartment concept. You’ve got that kitchenette, plus dozens of food options within a few blocks. The little Tesco Express around the corner becomes your best friend for basics, and Borough Market isn’t too far if you want to get fancy with ingredients. There’s no spa or gym either — this place is really about giving you a base in London rather than pampering you with amenities.

Why Guests Love It

The value proposition here is solid, especially for longer stays or if you’re traveling with family. Parking is available (which is honestly miraculous in this part of London), though you’ll pay extra for it. What really works is the flexibility — you can grab breakfast at the café downstairs, cook dinner in your room, or ignore the kitchen entirely and explore the neighborhood. The staff knows the area well and will point you toward the good stuff that’s not in guidebooks. It’s not flashy, but it gets London right.