Overview
First Impressions
Walking up to Stylish 3BR Bohemian Retreat by Portobello on Basing Street, you’ll immediately notice how it fits perfectly into this eclectic corner of London. The building itself has that classic Victorian charm that makes this area so appealing, and honestly, the bohemian vibe starts right from the entrance. This four-star property isn’t trying to be overly polished — it’s got character, which is exactly what you want when you’re staying this close to Portobello Market.
The Space Itself
The three-bedroom setup actually works brilliantly for families or groups who want space to spread out. Each room has its own personality — I mean, they’ve really leaned into that bohemian aesthetic with vintage furniture and colorful textiles that feel authentic rather than staged. The main living area flows naturally into a well-equipped kitchen, which is genuinely useful since you’re surrounded by amazing markets where you’ll want to pick up fresh ingredients.
Location & Neighborhood
You know what’s great about staying here? You’re literally a two-minute walk from Portobello Road, but tucked away enough that you won’t hear the weekend market crowds from your windows. Notting Hill Gate station is close by, so getting into central London is straightforward, but honestly, you might find yourself spending more time exploring the local area. The neighborhood has this perfect mix of antique shops, cozy pubs, and those Instagram-worthy pastel houses that everyone comes to see.
Daily Life Here
Morning coffee hits different when you can grab beans from one of the local roasters and brew them in your own space. The apartment setup means you’re not tied to hotel breakfast times — actually, there’s something quite liberating about having your own routine in London. Evenings are lovely too; you can pick up wine from the corner shop and settle in, or venture out to one of the nearby gastropubs that locals actually frequent.
Why Guests Love It
This place works because it gives you the best of both worlds — proper London living without the hassle of sorting out utilities and council tax. The bohemian touches feel genuine rather than forced, and the three-bedroom layout means everyone gets their own space after long days of sightseeing. Sure, it’s not the fanciest place in London, but it’s got soul, and that’s worth quite a lot when you’re trying to experience the city like someone who actually lives here rather than just passing through.
Guest reviews
"Great location great apartment great if you want to be near portobello Notting hill"
Great location spacious accomadation
Our blinds in the living room had fallen off when we arrived I spoke with the reception who promptly arranged for an engineer to fix it. He did his best too ok fix it. it didn’t impact much of our stay I think after we left they may have replaced the blinds. It was a great location and amenities were good.
28 August 2025
"Great stay"
Spacious, clean, comfortable and great location
What could be improved: Nothing
20 May 2025
"Brilliant location, near Portobello. Excellent value for money."
Excellent, tad small but three bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen. Bathroom with heated floor.
What could be improved: No negatives.
3 January 2025
"Clean , spacious and very central to Notting hill."
Clean and very spacious. Lots of towels . Lots of bedding, warm unit especially in winter when we visited.
Excellent communication from owner and easy access to unit.
Very quiet which is surprising for London.
Location was excellent very close to the markets on Portobello road.
Very safe.
What could be improved: Nothing
19 October 2024
"A good lire place in a good location at a reasonable cost. Might use again."
Spacious, well presented, well equipped, great location.
What could be improved: Could do with a full length mirror somewhere and also a hanging rail in the main bedroom.
Also and this is a personal preference I appreciate, taking a £300 damage deposit makes it feel a bit cheap. I know lots of people will have the opinion it’s expected and what’s needed and I appreciate that. It just detracted from the whole experience a touch plus the extra faff. Minor point overall though.
3 June 2024
"Great location, requires maintenance"
Great location. Comfortable beds
What could be improved: Numerous maintenance issues including, fridge didn’t shut, dining chairs broken, no hot water in kitchen, blind cords didn’t work, bathroom door lock problematic, dryer didn’t work. No supply of dishwashing products or tea towels.
23 May 2024
"Lovely place to stay in London."
The location is very good. The apartement was cozy and clean. The beds were comfortable. There are good places to eat. Nice apartment to stay in London.
What could be improved: At first the apartement was only 12 degrees warm, it was a bit of a bad suprise. When we warmed up, everything was great.
18 March 2024
"We ere a damily of 6 and we had a very nice stay in the apartment"
Location
What could be improved: No isea! All was fine!
24 February 2024
"Great location, nice apartment close to Portobello Rd and an 8 minute walk to Ladbroke Grove tube."
Great location an 8 minute walk from Ladbroke Grove Tube station (warning: this station does not have a lift; stairs only). Just around the corner from Portobello Rd and a nice walk to Kensington Gardens. Well equipped kitchen with stove, coffee machine, and full size fridge. Good size for our family of four. Very helpful hosts.
What could be improved: Probably the only downside was that the hot water tended to run out after four people had showers one after the other, so we had to stagger these a bit.
23 December 2023
"Fabulous apartment - close to everything."
This is lovely and comfortable apartment - very spacious my London standards. the very very best of locations. Right on Portobello Rd, very easy walk to trains, buses. Westfields. Less than 2 minutes to the great eclectic shopping, cafes, bars and restaurants of Notting Hill. Is very well appointed and super comfortable. Highly recommend.
What could be improved: No hanging space in one bedroom. No mirrors in 2 bedrooms. No power point in the bathroom. No iron or ironing board.
22 May 2023