The Portobello Hotel.
It’s perfect for when you’re in the Market for a particularly luxurious night’s stay.
Founded in 1971 and home to many a famous mug over the years (Johnny Depp and Kate Moss were rumoured to share a Champagne bath here; Alice Cooper preferred to keep a boa constrictor in his), it’s easy to see why The Portobello makes such a relentless appearance in best hotel lists. Decked out like an eccentric boho mansion, the rooms sport giant murals and free-standing bathtubs, the honesty bar is open all night long, and you can help yourself to free cheese in the morning. Here’s how it all breaks down…
THE LOCATION
Notting Hill and all its eclectic charms are right on your doorstep – and while it’s one of London’s wealthier neighbourhoods, it still has a mischievous element that’s missing from Chelsea or Hampstead. Here, you can browse for antiques and unusual trinkets at the pastel-painted Portobello Market; catch a film in retro settings at The Electric; or make your own souvenir gin to take home at The Distillery. Plus, the nearby Leighton House and Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising number amongst some of London’s quirkier museums.
THE ROOMS
The 21 individually designed rooms range from dinky singles to the ‘Exceptional’ – airy suites with their own private patio – but for our money, the more snugly-fitting ‘Good’ rooms are good enough, with their exotic murals and eclectic colour schemes. And naturally each room comes with free wifi, round-the-clock room service, aaand a minibar stocked with the West London essentials of gourmet popcorn, posh pork crackling, nougat and a bottle of Moet.
THE FOOD AND DRINK
Breakfast is included with your night’s stay, so you’ll be able to fill up on complimentary boards of cheese, charcuterie and pastries in the lounge, which overlooks one of Notting Hill’s iconic private gardens. There’s also hot à la carte dishes (available for an extra fee) as well as a small bites menu running throughout the rest of the day, and it’s not uncommon for reception staff to arrange takeout delivery for you. Though, frankly, that would be a tragic waste when you’re a few steps from Michelin-starred spot The Ledbury, rococo bolthole Beach Blanket Babylon, and al fresco brunches at Bill Granger’s or Farmgirl. The best part, however, is the honesty bar, which stays open 24 hours for hotel guests… and their guests.
THE AMENITIES
It’s worth noting that while you get glorious views of the private Stanley Gardens from the lounge and many of the rooms… you can’t actually access them as a hotel guest. Luckily you’re a stone’s throw from Holland Park and its picturesque Kyoto Garden, or the Kensington Roof Gardens, whose trio of themed courtyards include a pond with four resident flamingos. The hotel also has a partnership with nearby fitness centre Body Works West, which you can use for a reduced rate – in fact, the first session is entirely free.
As are, you know, the roll-topped bathtubs in the rooms. Your choice.
NOTE: Rooms at The Portobello Hotel start at ~£150 a night, including a continental breakfast. You can find out more and reserve on their website HERE.
The Portobello Hotel | 22 Stanley Gardens, W11 2NG
Spending a few days here? You’ll be needing our guide to Notting Hill…