Kensington is usually a bit of a cliché. You’ve got the white stucco, the designer bags on High Street, and the feeling that you’re accidentally walking through a movie set. Most people booking a trip to London think they have to choose between a cramped five-star hotel room or a risky "lived-in" rental. But honestly, Lexham Gardens by Cheval Maison kinda breaks that binary.
It’s a boutique residence that feels more like a wealthy friend’s townhouse than a commercial property.
People often mistake it for a standard hotel. It isn't. It’s a collection of 30 apartments that basically lets you pretend you actually live in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. If you’ve ever wanted to carry a set of keys to a mid-Victorian building (specifically built between 1875 and 1884), this is the spot.
Why the Location at Lexham Gardens by Cheval Maison Hits Different
Most tourists end up in the noisy belly of the West End. That’s a mistake if you actually want to sleep. Lexham Gardens is tucked away in a conservation area, but you’re still only about a ten-minute walk from the Earl’s Court or Gloucester Road tube stations.
You’re basically living behind the Cromwell Road.
It’s quiet. Like, "hear a pin drop at 10:00 PM" quiet. Yet, you can walk to the Natural History Museum in about 13 minutes or stroll over to the Royal Albert Hall if you're feeling fancy. There’s a Sainsbury’s and a Waitrose right nearby, which is crucial because these apartments have actual kitchens. Not those tiny "kitchenettes" where you can barely fit a toaster, but full-sized setups with high-tech appliances.
The Design Themes: More Than Just Paint
Usually, when a hotel says they have a "theme," I roll my eyes. It’s usually just a different colored rug. But the interiors here, designed by the Scottish studio Mojo Designs, actually have some personality. They use three specific aesthetics:
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- Racing Green: Very British, very "gentleman’s club" but without the stuffiness.
- Luxurious Royal Red: Bold, high-energy, and definitely pops in photos.
- Cool Neutral Equestrian: This one is the most popular for long stays. It’s lots of leather belt-strap headboards and calming tones.
One of the coolest features is the built-in espresso makers in the walls. Honestly, it’s those little things—like the Bvlgari toiletries and the fact that some units have private garden access—that make it feel like a step up from the usual serviced apartment.
What No One Tells You About Staying Here
There’s a private landscaped atrium garden at the back. It’s a literal oasis. If you’re traveling for work, it’s the only place you’ll actually want to take a Zoom call.
Also, the gym. Most "hotel gyms" are a sad treadmill in a windowless basement. This one is open 24 hours and uses Precor equipment. It’s legit.
Wait, here's a detail people miss: if you stay for less than 27 nights, you get daily maid service. If you’re there for a long-term "Extended Stay" (28+ nights), the service schedule shifts a bit to give you more privacy, though you can still request whatever you need.
The Logistics Nobody Reads
- Check-in: 3:00 PM. Check-out: 11:00 AM.
- The Deposit: Be ready for a refundable damage deposit (usually around £420).
- Pets: They are welcome! But there’s a fee of £50 per night (capped at £250 per stay) and a weight limit of 55 lbs (25 kg).
- Staff: The front office is staffed 24/7. This is huge because many London apartments use lockboxes, which are a nightmare when your flight lands at 2:00 AM.
Is It Worth the Price Tag?
Let’s be real. It’s Kensington. It isn’t "budget."
However, if you are a family of three or four, a two-bedroom apartment here is almost always cheaper and infinitely more comfortable than booking two separate rooms at a nearby luxury hotel. You get a washing machine. You get a dishwasher. You get a fridge you can actually fit a bottle of wine and some groceries in.
One thing to watch out for: some guests have mentioned a 4% optional service charge added at the end. It is optional, so just keep an eye on your final bill and talk to the staff if you have questions. They are generally super professional—shoutout to Ian James, the General Manager, who seems to actually respond to guest feedback.
Common Misconceptions
People think "boutique" means "no services." That’s wrong. You still get the concierge who can book your theatre tickets or grab you a taxi to Heathrow.
Another misconception? That it's too far from the action. Honestly, being a 5-minute walk from the South Kensington museums while staying in a quiet residential square is the ultimate London power move. You get the peace without the commute.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
- Request the First Floor: If you want more space, aim for the Deluxe One-Bedroom apartments on the first floor. They have the most generous layouts.
- The Grocery Hack: Don't just eat out. Go to the Waitrose on Gloucester Road, buy some high-end ingredients, and actually use that kitchen. It saves a fortune.
- The Garden Units: If you’re a smoker or just want fresh air, ask about the Lower Ground units with direct garden access.
- Transport: Don't bother with Ubers in peak traffic. Use the District or Piccadilly lines from Earl’s Court; they’ll get you to South Kensington or Knightsbridge in minutes.
If you’re looking for a place that feels like a home but has the polish of a 5-star hotel, Lexham Gardens by Cheval Maison is probably the most balanced option in West London right now. It’s stylish without being pretentious, and it’s located in a spot that makes you feel like a local, not just another tourist with a map.