Overview
First Impressions
When I first stumbled upon The Isabella Studio by Richmond Park, I’ll be honest — I wasn’t expecting much from a studio setup. But stepping into this three-star gem on Beard Road completely changed my perspective on what a well-designed space can offer. The moment you walk in, there’s this immediate sense that someone actually thought about how real people live and travel.
Location & Neighborhood
Strawberry Hill isn’t one of those touristy London areas everyone talks about, which is exactly why I loved staying here. You’re literally a stone’s throw from Richmond Park — and I mean that, because you can actually see the green from the studio. The area has this quiet residential feel where you’ll find proper local pubs and that corner shop where the owner remembers your name after two visits. Getting into central London is straightforward enough with Strawberry Hill station nearby, but honestly, you might find yourself wanting to stay put and explore Richmond instead.
The Studio Space
Here’s where The Isabella Studio really shines — they’ve managed to fit everything you need into one thoughtfully designed room without it feeling cramped. The kitchen area is compact but functional (I actually cooked a proper meal there), and the sleeping area feels separate enough that you don’t feel like you’re living on top of your suitcase. What struck me most was the attention to detail — decent Wi-Fi, proper blackout curtains, and a shower that actually has good water pressure.
Richmond Park Access
You know what nobody tells you about staying near Richmond Park? You’ll become one of those people who goes for morning walks. The park is massive — over 2,500 acres — and having it as your backyard changes your entire London experience. I found myself wandering over to see the deer herds before breakfast, something I never imagined doing on a city break. The Isabella Gate entrance is practically around the corner, so you avoid the crowds that cluster around the main entrances.
Why Guests Love It
After spending several nights here, I get why this place maintains such a solid reputation. It’s not trying to be something it’s not — there’s no pretentious lobby or unnecessary frills. Instead, you get a clean, comfortable base that feels more like borrowing a friend’s well-appointed flat than staying in a typical hotel. The 8.7 rating makes perfect sense when you consider the value proposition: you’re getting independence, proximity to one of London’s best parks, and a genuinely peaceful neighborhood experience without paying central London prices.
Guest reviews
"Good inclusions in a nice, convenient location."
Good fit out with thoughtful practical inclusions like the washing machine, drying rack, desk and knife was even sharp (many not in these types of accommodation). Made the most of the space. Very responsive host with good tips.
What could be improved: Didn’t love the Chromecast - it didn’t work with BBC as per instructions. Could do with a toilet roll holder - easy fix.
8 July 2025
"It was a perfect stay in a lovely room."
The room is clean and adorable. The galaxy light and Google Assistant made it feel incredibly special. It's my favorite room to stay in. I recommend it for everyone traveling to Kingston. This is the best place!
What could be improved: There is no full-length mirror available for dressing up.
22 December 2024
"Great Break"
The apartment is as described… great for a few days break. Super warm. Well equipped kitchen. All neat and tidy. Communication and instructions were excellent. We had a great break in Kingston/Ham
What could be improved: Nothing it was as described. No issues with noise or neighbours
9 December 2024
C
Caylamegan77
United Kingdom
10
"Lovely stay, clean and welcoming."
Lovely clean space with beautiful homely features and a great view.
16 September 2024
"Amazing, wonderful, relaxing and comforting as a visit home to see friends after 20 years with easy access to public tra"
The warmth, the comfort, the location. The bed, so comfortable!
What could be improved: The oven microwave was hard for me to use.
26 August 2024
"Awesome"
Location
What could be improved: Heat, very hot in top floor flat but we had a heatwave and a fan wad provided. I would definitely stay again. Host was lovely x
8 August 2024
"Overall comfortable and nice"
What could be improved: instruction were poor . The key locker was behind the bushes and not visible . There were no pictures of the locker on the instruction provided. Had to call and video the outside. At 9:30 pm in the evening for some this can be daunting as location whilst residential for visitors it is still unfamiliar surroundings
21 September 2025
"Enjoyable Studio"
My experience was good. Taking the bus and getting around was very easy. The accommodation is very cute, and every small detail was appreciated, from facial cotton balls to having big bottles of body wash and shampoo and conditioner. The instructions and recommendations were easily laid out.
The mattress does need a little upgrade because it was a little lumpy.
I will say if you are very tall this wouldn't work for you. The studio can be a bit tight in the bathroom and kitchen areas. Also, it's about an hour outside of the city center, so if you are looking for something a little closer to central London, this wouldn't be a good location.
10 April 2025
"Cosy, comfortable and convenient stay"
A lovely little apartment that had everything I needed. Bright, comfortable, good little extra touches like the streaming logins, the google home and the little pack on arrival. Hard to find fault.
What could be improved: I am 6ft 2 and because of the sloped roof it is impossible to stand up straight in the kitchen area and parts of the bathroom. This was not a problem for me but just something for taller people to be aware of. The mattress on the bed was also a little firm for my taste.
24 June 2024
"It could be better this property"
The location under the Heathrow flight path was quite funny — I actually enjoyed watching the planes flying over every few minutes.
What could be improved: The £200 deposit is quite high, especially without clear communication beforehand.
• The staff was not very friendly or helpful.
• The bathroom was unsafe: the shower floor was very slippery, there was no grab handle, and water stayed on the floor, making it even more dangerous.
• The spotlights in the room flickered.
• The mattress was too hard and uncomfortable.
• The hot water didn’t work properly — you had to turn the knob back and forth a few times before it got warm.
• The constant noise from planes flying overhead might be disturbing if you are looking for peace and quiet.
26 April 2025
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