You’re stepping off the Tube at Earl’s Court. The air has that distinct London mix of damp pavement and expensive perfume. You’ve got your suitcase in tow, and you’re looking for 33-37 Hogarth Road. Most people think "Kensington hotel" and immediately envision stuffy doormen in top hats or prices that require a second mortgage. Honestly, that’s where the Park Grand London Kensington throws a bit of a curveball.
It’s tucked away. Seriously. If you aren't looking for it, you might walk right past the Victorian facade while eyeing a nearby Pret a Manger. But this isn't just another cookie-cutter stay in the Royal Borough. As of early 2026, the property is actually navigating a fascinating transition period following its acquisition by KKR and Amante Capital. They’re pivoting it toward a "boutique lifestyle" vibe under Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio.
The Location Logic: Why This Patch of SW5 Works
Location is basically the only thing that matters in London. You can have the softest pillows in the world, but if you’re a two-hour commute from the South Kensington museums, what's the point?
The Park Grand London Kensington sits about a five-minute stroll from Earl’s Court Station. That’s key. You’re on the District and Piccadilly lines. One way takes you straight to Heathrow; the other puts you in the West End in fifteen minutes. It’s convenient.
Wait. There’s a catch.
Hogarth Road isn't Park Lane. It's a bustling, narrow street. You’ve got local supermarkets and small cafes right on your doorstep. If you want the quiet, leaf-strewn streets of "Old Money" Kensington, you'll need to walk about ten minutes north toward the Natural History Museum. But for the price-to-proximity ratio? It’s hard to beat.
Rooms, Space, and the "London Squeeze"
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Or rather, the lack of space for an elephant. London hotels are notoriously compact.
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The rooms here—there are about 130 to 150 depending on the current configuration during the refurb—range from "cozy" to "Executive." If you book a basic Deluxe room, don't expect to be doing cartwheels. It’s designed for the traveler who spends 90% of their day at the V&A or Harrods.
What’s actually inside?
- The Tech: You get the standard flat-screen TVs and fast Wi-Fi. Marriott Bonvoy members usually get the better tier of internet, which is a nice perk.
- The Vibe: Think dark woods and neutral tones. It’s contemporary. Not "edgy" contemporary, but "I can actually sleep here" contemporary.
- The Bathrooms: Surprisingly generous. Most reviews highlight the rain showers. After a day of fighting crowds at Covent Garden, a high-pressure shower is a godsend.
One thing people often miss: some rooms have microwaves and small fridges. In a city where a mediocre sandwich can cost £9, having a fridge to store some M&S Food Hall finds is a massive win for your budget.
Dining: Beyond the Full English
Breakfast is served at the in-house restaurant, often referred to as The RendezVous 2. It’s a full English spread. Sausages, eggs, the whole deal. It’s solid. Is it the best breakfast in London? Probably not. But it’s convenient when it’s raining—which, let’s be real, is often.
For dinner, you’re better off exploring. The Bottlery is right nearby and serves great British fare. Or, if you’re feeling lazy, the hotel’s bar offers light snacks and a decent gin and tonic.
The new ownership is reportedly leaning harder into the "lifestyle" dining experience. Expect the bar area to get a lot more "Instagrammable" over the coming months. KKR doesn't buy properties to keep them looking like 2015.
The 2026 Refurbishment Reality
If you're booking right now, you need to know about the transition. Being part of the Tribute Portfolio means the hotel is moving away from the more corporate "Grand" feel and toward something more unique.
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There might be some dust.
Acknowledge the limitations. If you want a finished, polished, 5-star experience, you might want to look at the Milestone. But if you want to stay in a property that’s actively being upgraded to a boutique standard—at a 4-star price point—this is the sweet spot.
Is the Gym Actually a Gym?
Yes. But barely.
It’s on the lower ground floor. It has the basics: a treadmill, some weights. It’s enough to keep your heart rate up, but you aren't training for the Olympics here. If you need a "real" workout, Hyde Park is less than a mile away. Go for a run there. The air is fresher, and the views of the Serpentine are better than a basement wall.
Common Misconceptions
A lot of people confuse this property with the "Park City Grand Plaza" or other "Park Grand" branded hotels in Paddington or Heathrow.
Double-check your booking.
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The Kensington location is specifically on Hogarth Road. If your confirmation says "Lancaster Gate," you’re in the wrong place. This happens more often than you’d think. London’s naming conventions for hotels are a minefield.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
Don't just check in and out. Use the location to your advantage.
- The Secret Shortcut: Walk through Courtfield Gardens to get to the Gloucester Road area. It’s much prettier than the main road and cuts off a few minutes.
- The Grocery Hack: There’s a Manila Supermarket and a Sainsbury’s nearby. Stock up on water and snacks there instead of hitting the minibar.
- The Museum Strategy: If you're heading to the Natural History Museum, go for the "Late" sessions if they're running. You can walk back to the hotel in 15 minutes afterward.
- The Tube Tip: Earl's Court station has a lift, but only for certain platforms. If you have heavy bags, check the TFL "step-free" map before you arrive.
The Park Grand London Kensington is basically for the savvy traveler. It’s for the person who wants the SW5 postcode and the Marriott points without the Mayfair price tag. It isn't perfect, and the rooms won't win any "largest suite" awards, but as a base for exploring the capital? It's pretty hard to fault.
Keep an eye on the rebranding. As the Tribute Portfolio transition completes, this spot is likely to become one of the more sought-after boutique options in the area. Book it now before the "lifestyle" label drives the prices up.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Verify the Refurb Status: Check recent guest photos on TripAdvisor or Google Maps from the last 30 days to see if specific floors are under construction.
- Join Marriott Bonvoy: Even if you aren't a frequent flyer, the free Wi-Fi upgrade alone is worth the two-minute sign-up.
- Map Your Walk: Save the "Hogarth Road" pin on your offline maps so you don't get turned around when coming out of the Earl's Court station exit—take the Warwick Road exit for a shorter walk.