Hotel Snapshot
Perfectly placed in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea—the second smallest borough in London—the Egerton House Hotel couldn’t ask for a better address. Its traditional red-brick façade is fronted by a flower-filled porch, complete with labeled blooms like pink panther foxglove and the brand’s symbolic red carnations (more on that later). An English flag flutters overhead, and stepping inside feels less like entering a lobby and more like walking into a private living room with two small writing desks.
I dropped my carry-on and was greeted by Rose (a fitting name, given the hotel’s love for botany), who welcomed me with a warm smile. The staff’s uniforms are dapper yet understated—black trousers and crisp white shirts for all—which quietly complement the hotel’s buttoned-up vibe without tipping into stuffiness.
Design & Character
While London brims with a plethora of modern, maximalist hotels, the Egerton House leans into a bygone era of old-world England. For some, the look might feel a touch traditional, but for me, it was refreshing to stay somewhere that wasn’t a carbon copy of a “modern classic.” Instead, the Egerton House delivers pure English authenticity.
Little details go a long way in carrying this tailored theme. Realist oil portraits of pooches and Victorian ladies peer down from the walls, framed by braided tulle curtains, velvet sofas, and chestnut leather armchairs. In the bar, cartoon sketches of Old England add a witty contrast, making the space feel like the parlor of your well-traveled, art-collecting grandmother.
The Rooms
Inside the guest rooms and suites, a palette of neutral tones and tactile fabrics creates an atmosphere that’s both cozy and contemporary. Cream suede walls lean into timeless townhouse elegance rather than fleeting trends. Signature Red Carnation details appear throughout—from embroidered gold “E” monograms on plush bathrobes to red leather luggage tags stamped with the hotel’s floral insignia.
In the Studio Suites, heavy tasseled drapes pull back to reveal leafy views of Egerton Garden. A glass jar of homemade lavender–lemon shortbread sits on the desk as a welcome treat, while turndown service leaves a single chocolate on your pillow—a simple, classic gesture done just right.
Food & Drink
Famed for their martinis, the Egerton chills all spirits to 22°C for optimum sipping. “Neither shaken nor stirred—unless you insist,” barman Mark explained. “The only way to drink it is by the Egerton Slirp method, because it’s so full you can’t lift the glass.”
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served either in the upstairs Drawing Room or the more formal Dining Room downstairs. Each morning begins with a complimentary apple–ginger shot infused with mint and lime—my waiter’s gentle warning: “It’s strong.”
In the evenings, the burger is a standout choice, hearty yet refined. But it’s breakfast that shines brightest. Recently voted one of the UK’s best, the Eggs Benedict is exceptional. If you take hotel dining seriously, order breakfast via room service at least once. The staff sets the table with such precision that it feels like you’re in the Dining Room itself, only with the added indulgence of being wrapped in your robe.
Amenities
This isn’t the place for a high-tech gym or a sprawling spa. Instead, it’s about savoring English rituals: afternoon tea, martini hour at 4 p.m., and unhurried strolls through Hyde Park. For those in need of true me-time, the hotel can arrange private spa or beauty treatments in your suite, as well as connect you with wellness partners like the nearby AIRE Ancient Baths.
And in proper English fashion, the hotel is pet-friendly. Matilda, the resident Jack Russell, happily accepts pats and scratches—offering the kind of therapy only man’s best friend can provide.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Kensington is one of those neighborhoods that makes you think, “Could I live here?” (if you could one day afford it, given its prestigious reputation). Hyde Park is a five-minute walk away, perfect for picnics or pond-side duck-watching. The V&A Museum—home to the dazzling Cartier exhibition until mid-November—is also a stone’s throw from the hotel.
Fast Facts
Location: Knightsbridge, London, England
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Quintessential English townhouse style
Room Count: 28
Starting Rate: Starting at $530 per night.
Dining: The Drawing Room offers light bites and afternoon tea, while the formal Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In-room dining is also available, and they’re known for their expertly chilled martinis.
Amenities: Afternoon tea service, martini hour at 4 p.m., drawing room and dining room, in-room dining, pet-friendly accommodations, turndown service with chocolates, and a selection of homemade shortbreads.
What’s Nearby? Hyde Park, the V&A Museum, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and the Saatchi Gallery
Closest Airport: London Heathrow Airport (LHR), about 45 minutes by car
