The summer holidays are finally here and with no end to the heatwave in sight, here is our guide to things to do in London in the sun. Whether you have the little ones in tow, are having a romantic get away with a loved one or a weekend with friends, with the Kensington Hotel, City Continental as your base, you’ll be in the perfect place to visit some of London’s finest attractions!
If you are planning your trip with the children in tow, check out the huge wooden pirate ship complete with its own beach, at the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground. This children’s wonderland opened in 2000, in memory of the late Princess. Situated next to her Kensington Palace home this is a lovely playground for children to explore and will keep them amused for hours. The play park also boasts sensory trails, teepees, and various toys and play sculptures; all set amongst the lush trees and plants of Kensington Gardens. There is plenty of seating for grownups and the Board Walk café is located next to the playground; this offers a wide range of food and drinks to refuel and cool off. The playground and café are set within the vast grounds of Kensington so when the children have had their fill there is plenty more to explore.
Why suffer through a stressful flight to the continent when the sun is out in London and you can take a cooling dip in the Serpentine Lido. An 18-minute tube ride from our Hotel in Kensington, takes you to this little oasis in the city. From May through to September everyone is welcome in a section of the Serpentine lake. The water is not heated, but with the mercury still rising, it’s exactly what the doctor ordered. It isn’t chlorinated either, lovely for swimmers who prefer to avoid chemicals. There is wildlife a plenty so don’t be surprised if you find yourself sharing a dip with the local ducks and swans. A gated family area with a (chlorinated) paddling pool, sandpit and swings provides a safe place for the little ones to play while parents relax. There's an area for sunbathing complete with sun loungers for hire and a kiosk within the lido grounds so you can order from the popular Lido Café next door.
Hop on the Piccadilly line to Knightsbridge and for a little bit of indulgence escape into the wonderful airconditioned luxury of Harrods of London. You will enjoy an outstanding level of care, exceptional personal service and the magical experience only to be found at Harrods. Treat yourself to a little designer something, fantasize amongst the shelves filled with wonderous pieces or visit one of Harrods many restaurants to truly dine in style. With everything from coffee shops to fish and chips and fine dining there is something to suit every mood.
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This hotel is very central and very close to Earl's court tube station. Staff are very friendly and ready to help. The continental breakfast is very good as there are a number of items visitors can choose.
This hotel was a gem. Stayed three nights and it is two minutes walk to Earls Court Underground with plenty of restaurants nearby. The street is quiet and very close to the bustle of Earl's Court with peaceful nights sleep overlooking the road. Breakfast was delightful with cereal, fruit, yogurts, toast and croissants. This is also served in a spacious dining area. The room was clean and of reasonable size, well serviced daily and has very helpful and pleasant staff. Book this early as it is booked up quick. Great spot, will stay here again.
I didn't know what to expect with this hotel, I usually stick strictly to the big chain hotels when staying in London, but I was very pleasantly surprised. The hotel is very well located for Earl's Court tube station and a selection of shops and bars on the high street. I was in a single room and it was compact but beautifully clean and well equipped. The bathroom looked to be almost brand new, not sure if this was the case or if the cleaners are just excellent! Breakfast is served in the basement which is common in London hotels, it's Continental only but there was a good selection and a self service coffee machine, as I was travelling on business and needed to be up and out it was perfect for me. The staff I encountered were all very friendly and helpful too. I'll definitely be returning.
We were able to change room and stay (4 nights) which was way better than in some much more expensive London 4 star hotels. The hotel was clean, everything worked, fast WiFi and shower powerful. Breakfast even better than what one could expect for such a budget price (including organic fruit yoghurt). Unbeatable location just around the corner from Earl's Court tube station. Fast access to all interesting parts of London. Enough restaurants, pubs and M&S Simply Food and Pret a Manger a few steps away. Highly recommendable hotel!
My room was clean and tidy with a huge bed (very comfy). The staff were lovely even with my unavoidable late arrival, all very friendly and helpful, even helping to take my bags to my room. The service was impeccable. Will definitely be staying there again.
Hotel is in a quiet area, conveniently located close to Earls Court Station. Room was big and spacious. Breakfast was good. Staff were very helpful and friendly. Plenty of Pubs, Restaurants & Supermarkets close by.
We booked this hotel as part of a package via a rail break. I had read the reviews previously and felt comfortable with our choice, thinking, it's only a base to stay while seeing the big city. This hotel was fabulous. Everything about it is very good. The staff on reception could not have been kinder, particular Alfonso who went the extra mile to be so helpful. His career in hospitality, in any hotel is heading for the top in this difficult profession. Even the cleaners and breakfast staff could not do enough to make our stay more comfortable and should be praised for their hard work. The breakfast was refreshingly continental, plenty of it and held at a comfortable unhurried pace. The rooms were spotless and well serviced and we were warm and not bothered by any noise. If we chose to stay in this area again, we would gladly stay at the Continental. Thank you all of you, you are a brilliant team.
Excellent location, 3 mins walk from Earl's Court tube station. I stayed in a twin room which was spacious clean and very quiet. The reception staff were very friendly and helpful. The continental breakfast was plentiful. All in all for what was classed as a budget hotel I would highly recommend this hotel. I would not hesitate to re-visit.
Hotel with good value for money and prime location. Rooms (and bathroom) quite spacious, clean and well maintained. Good breakfast offer (Jogurt, cereals, fresh fruit) and friendly staff. Perfect for a city trip with family or friends.
Stayed here after spending a long day at Earl's Court Exhibition Centre. Very smooth check in, lovely clean quite room that looked like it had just been decorated . Near to Earl's Court Station making travelling around London the next day very easy. Would defiantly recommend and look forward to returning soon.