A newly opened hotel in West London, The Kensington Hideaway, is aiming to tap into the growing trend of literary-themed travel, but its execution of the concept has drawn criticism. Located on Kensington High Street, the hotel claims inspiration from local literary figures such as Agatha Christie, P.L. Travers, William Makepeace Thackeray, and T.S. Eliot, all of whom had ties to the area.
However, the hotel's attempts to weave this heritage into its design appear to be superficial. Examples cited include AI-generated images of authors in the lifts, featuring peculiar inconsistencies like shared body shapes between different literary figures. Stairwells are adorned with bookprint wallpaper and lettered carpets, while the foyer's 'dark academia' aesthetic is described as generic, incorporating dark wallpaper, animal statues with pearls, and stacks of books.
Further details that undermine the theme include framed images of book pages shaped as butterflies in guest rooms and seemingly random hardback books, such as an 1980s soup cookbook, with no clear connection to Kensington's literary past. The hotel's restaurant and cocktail menu also face scrutiny, with some dishes lacking promised ingredients and drinks featuring questionable names like 'The Trust Fund Mule' and 'Duke of York Martini'.
Despite these thematic missteps, The Kensington Hideaway has many positive attributes. The property, formerly the Seraphine Kensington, has undergone a multi-million pound renovation, resulting in a cosy and opulent feel within its 59 rooms. Starting rates of £215 for a double room are considered good value for the area, and its boutique nature, coupled with a 35-cover restaurant, contributes to an intimate atmosphere.
The hotel boasts an excellent location, just a short walk from the Design Museum and High Street Kensington Tube station, offering easy access to local attractions. Nearby, Ffiona's, a well-regarded local restaurant, is highlighted as a recommended dining option for its high-quality British comfort food and charming ambience.