The Lipstick Palace – Fitzrovia – by Frankie Says

First Impressions

The Lipstick Palace – Fitzrovia – by Frankie Says caught me off guard in the best possible way. Walking up to this three-star spot on a quiet Fitzrovia street, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from the quirky name. But you know what? The playful branding actually reflects something genuine here — this place has personality without trying too hard, which is refreshing in a city full of stuffy hotels.

Location & Neighborhood

Fitzrovia is one of those London neighborhoods that locals love but tourists often miss, tucked between the chaos of Oxford Street and the academic buzz of Bloomsbury. I mean, you’re literally a five-minute walk from Goodge Street station, which gets you anywhere fast. The streets around here are lined with independent cafes and little galleries — it’s the kind of area where you’ll stumble across a proper coffee shop that’s been serving the same regulars for decades.

The Room Experience

My room was compact but clever, with bold design choices that somehow work together. The beds are actually comfortable (not always a given at this price point), and there’s decent storage space if you’re staying more than a night or two. What I appreciated most was the attention to lighting — they’ve got proper reading lights and blackout curtains that actually block out the streetlights, which matters when you’re trying to recover from jet lag.

Practical Details

The staff here genuinely seem to care, which you notice in small ways — they remember your name, they’ll chat about the neighborhood if you ask, and they’re quick to sort out any issues. There’s no restaurant on-site, but honestly, that’s part of the charm of staying in Fitzrovia. You’ve got Charlotte Street just around the corner with more dining options than you could try in a week, from proper British pubs to excellent Middle Eastern spots.

Why Guests Love It

This place works because it knows what it is — a well-run, reasonably priced hotel in a brilliant location with just enough character to make your stay memorable. You’re not getting marble bathrooms or a concierge in white gloves, but you are getting clean, comfortable accommodations and a base that puts you right in the heart of one of London’s most walkable areas. For the price point, it’s honestly hard to beat, especially if you’re the type of traveler who spends more time exploring the city than lounging in your hotel room.