Overview
First Impressions
The Chelsea Kensington 159 Apartment sits on a quiet stretch of Finborough Road, and honestly, you might walk right past it if you’re not paying attention. It’s not trying to impress anyone from the outside — just a classic Victorian conversion that blends right into the neighborhood. But that’s actually part of its charm, especially if you’re the type who prefers staying somewhere that feels more like a local’s place than a tourist magnet.
The Space Itself
This apartment setup works really well for longer stays or when you want that bit of independence from typical hotel life. The kitchen is small but functional — I mean, you’re not going to be hosting dinner parties, but it’s perfect for morning coffee and storing those Waitrose purchases. The whole place has that lived-in feel without being worn down, which is exactly what you want from a three-star property in this part of town.
Location Perks
London can be overwhelming, but this corner of Kensington feels manageable and real. You’re actually within walking distance of both Earl’s Court and West Brompton stations, which gives you options when the Circle line inevitably has issues. The Finborough Theatre is literally around the corner — it’s this tiny pub theater that puts on surprisingly good productions. Plus, you know what’s great? The neighborhood has proper local spots mixed in with the obvious tourist draws.
What Works (And What Doesn’t)
The room size is decent for London standards, though if you’re used to American hotel space, it’ll feel compact. Storage is limited, so pack light or get creative with your suitcase placement. What I really appreciated was how quiet it stays at night — Finborough Road doesn’t get the constant traffic that some of the main drags do. The 7.9 rating makes sense; it’s solid without being spectacular, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
Why Guests Love It
People keep coming back here because it strikes that balance between being affordable and being in a genuinely desirable area. You’re close enough to walk to the Victoria and Albert Museum or catch a show in the West End, but you’re also in a neighborhood where locals actually live and work. The apartment-style setup means you can save money by not eating every meal out, which in London, honestly adds up fast. It’s not going to wow you with amenities, but it’ll give you a comfortable base in one of the city’s most pleasant areas.
Guest reviews
"great"
Nice location. Easy to reach the underground. Near the super market. I recommend this facility.
2 July 2025
"Quirky little apartment with great hosts in excellent location."
Great location and really attentive hosts who gave clear information of how to access the property and use the facilities. Loads of hot water and everything you need was there i.e. microwave, dishwasher, cooker etc.
What could be improved: Shower was a bit cramped for taller people. The second bedroom was only a partition from the main bedroom and was very small you couldn't use the outside space if you used the pull down bed in it.
30 August 2025
"Value for price"
Could sleep up to 5 people with sofa in livingroom. Only 5 minut walk to underground. Owner had the apartment washed on day two
What could be improved: Dirty when we arrived. The apartment was a bit worn.
19 March 2024
"Excellent location and great cosy apartment"
Highly equipped from watching machine, drier, dishwasher, kitchen utils, etc...
The porch is lovely for morning coffee and relaxation.
The apartment is quiet and located in a posh place
What could be improved: Some minor issue with the toilet seat, which was fixed within a day and the bathtub rain-head not working.
15 August 2023
"Very good"
The location was excellent, wifi works well, all the devices work fine .
The owner was very friendly and helpful in any time. He was very service minded.
What could be improved: The apartment was not clean enough.
No broom to sweep the floor, no clean cloths to clean in the kitchen,
The sofa bed in the living room needs to be fixed
9 April 2023
"Amazing"
Everything was good to be honest and the host checked on us as well. I will definitely go back
28 August 2024
"Easy, convenient but way too pricey for the apartment"
The host and location were great!
What could be improved: The place was dirty, stains on towels and bedding, damp/mould, dirt on floor, sofa looked dirty and slightly broken, blinds broken and no doorknob on the bedroom - nearly got stuck inside. WAY too expensive a price for the property.
9 August 2024
"Passable"
Location
What could be improved: Not clean , there was specific strange smell in bathroom , not even a single toilet roll was provided to us . Extra bed was not comfortable at all .
29 May 2024
"London is an expensive place to stay so this place was a value stay. The cleanliness got to me but we did save about a $"
Property is located in an excellent location and quiet building.
The host is super responsive on WhatsApp so I can ping him any time with questions or concerns.
The flat had some things that were just functional things that were so nice to have— anti slip mat in the bathroom, electronic blind out shades for bedrooms, a large drying rack to dry clothes, lots of drawers and hangers, electronic converters, multiple power strips which makes charging a breeze, etc.
What could be improved: The property was not well cleaned. The walls, the drawers, the handles, the curtains, the fridge, the washer could all use a deep deep clean.
Because I was traveling with 2 really young kids (2 yo + 4 yo) who will inevitably get their hands in things, I felt very stressed about noticing the space is not where as clean as I would like it.
All the furniture is IKEA. I love ikea furnitures but the furniture cannot handle wear and tear very well. It seemed like a number of things needed an upgrade/replacement.
The layout of the rooms is strange. It’s very functional as 1 bedroom flat as the 2nd bedroom is located behind the 1st bedroom. It works well if a kid or a baby in a cot is staying in the spare room. Wouldn’t work comfortably if it’s another adult…
21 May 2024
"disappointing accommodation in a good location"
Location
What could be improved: poor cleaning, damp dirty cloths in the kitchen cupboards, balcony with bird droppings on the glass and dirt, rust on the hangers, dead mosquitoes on the furniture, the sofa falling apart and impossible to sleep on, sheets not ironed and lack of clean towels
16 April 2023
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