With the holiday season upon us, I’m excited to share our cosy stay at The Resident Kensington, along with all the fantastic family-friendly festive activities you can enjoy in the area and nearby!
Why We Loved The Resident Kensington
Located at 19-21 Kensington Church St, London W8 4LF, The Resident Kensington offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. It’s just a quick 5-minute stroll from Earls Court station, making it easy to explore London’s festive charm. While the hotel itself is outside the congestion charge zone, many of the festive activities I’ll be recommending are within it, so keep that in mind when planning your outings. Also, note that the hotel is in the ULEZ zone, so it’s good to factor that into your travel plans if you’re driving.
Parking Perks
Finding parking in London can be tricky, but here’s a tip: there’s free parking on nearby roads after 1:30 pm on Saturdays and all day on Sundays. During other times, expect to pay around £3.90 an hour, which is pretty reasonable for central London.
Booking Tips
When it comes to pricing, it’s best to do a little research to find the best deal for your stay. Rates will vary based on the length of your visit, the day of the week, and the number of guests. I recommend checking out their website and playing around with different dates to find the perfect option for your budget.
Why We Loved Our Stay
One of the standout features of our stay was definitely the location. The Resident Kensington offers excellent transport links, making it easy to reach London’s top festive spots and attractions. Whether you’re heading out for ice skating, holiday shopping, or exploring Christmas markets, you’re never far from the magic of the season.
One of the first things that stood out at The Resident Kensington was just how stylish the hotel is! The elegant decor and warm ambience make it a truly inviting space to unwind after a day of exploring London’s festive wonders.
Our room was perfect for a cosy family stay, featuring super comfortable beds that made it easy to rest up after all our adventures. And for those little conveniences that make a big difference, the room also had a handy kitchenette—something I’m sure many parents will appreciate! It’s perfect for preparing quick snacks or warming up a bottle, giving you that extra flexibility during your stay.
Coffee lovers, rejoice! The room comes equipped with a Nespresso machine and a selection of pods, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee any time you need a pick-me-up. It’s those thoughtful touches that made our stay at The Resident Kensington feel like a home away from home.
One of the perks of staying at The Resident Kensington is the FREE Wi-Fi—and yes, it actually works! As someone who’s always on the go, being able to take my work with me is a huge plus. I rely on a strong internet connection to keep things running smoothly, so having reliable Wi-Fi is a must during our staycations. It made it easy for me to stay productive, even while we were out enjoying our adventures. Knowing I could count on a solid connection meant I could focus on exploring the city with my family without missing a beat!
Hassle-Free Contactless Checkout
One feature we really appreciated at The Resident Kensington was the contactless checkout. No need to stand in a long queue when it’s time to leave—just pop your key cards into the designated box, and you’re good to go! It’s such a time-saver, especially when you’re eager to head out and enjoy more of London.
Friendly and Attentive Staff
While we didn’t need much guidance since we know London pretty well, the staff were incredibly friendly and always ready to assist. I couldn’t help but notice how attentive they were to other guests who needed directions or advice on exploring the city. Their warmth and helpful attitude made a real difference, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout our stay.
What Festive Things Can I Do Nearby?
Staying at The Resident Kensington puts you in the perfect spot to enjoy some of London’s best holiday activities. Here are some festive favourites that are just a short trip away:
Stick Man at Leicester Square Theatre
A must-see for families! Hop on the Piccadilly line from Earls Court to Leicester Square station, and from there, it’s just a short walk to the Leicester Square Theatre. Enjoy the heartwarming tale of Stick Man, which is playing until January 2022, offering the perfect blend of laughter, music, and festive fun for kids and adults alike.
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
This is my absolute favourite festive tradition! It might be a little pricey, but trust me, it’s worth every penny. From ice skating and circus shows to the magical Christmas market, there’s something for everyone. Simply take the Piccadilly line from Earls Court to Hyde Park Corner station, and you’ll be a short walk away from the entrance. It’s a magical winter escape that will leave you feeling all the holiday cheer!
Tootbus Christmas Lights Tour
You can’t visit London during the holiday season without admiring the stunning Christmas lights! If you’d rather not walk around, consider hopping on the Tootbus Christmas Lights Tour. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the twinkling displays that light up the city, all from the comfort of an open-top bus.
Festive Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough
For a truly elegant festive experience, treat yourself to a Christmas-themed afternoon tea at The Lanesborough. Indulge in seasonal sweets and treats in a beautifully decorated setting. Getting there is a breeze—just take the Piccadilly line from Earl’s Court to Hyde Park Corner, and you’re all set for a delightful afternoon.
While buses and taxis are always an option, I personally find the London Underground to be the least stressful form of transport, especially when travelling with kids. It’s quick, convenient, and makes getting to all these festive spots a breeze!
