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Ellen Kensington, a boutique hotel in the heart of Kensington,has revealed it is to open in September.
A new pan-Asian restaurant with an expansive terrace and theatrical dining options will also open.
Ellen Kensington comprises 105 guestrooms, rooms and suites set across five interconnected Victorian period townhouses.
More than half of the rooms overlook the historic Barkston Gardens, while the interiors feature a “juxtaposition of classic English design with subtle Chinoiserie touches”, rain showers and anti-fog heated bathroom mirrors.
A number of the property’s original features have been carefully restored through the refurbishment process, including period bannisters, wrought iron gate rails, and the reinstatement of the property’s high ceilings and bay box sash windows.
Additionally, a variety of drink and dining options will open with the hotel, including a destination bar and cigar lounge. The Lacquer Room will feature a pan-Asian restaurant with its own orangery and elegant private terrace.
Lunch specialties include bento boxes, Asian specialties and light bites, whilst dinner is an “immersive affair” with Shabu Shabu experiences and countertop dining. An Asian inspired Afternoon Tea will be on offer daily, with “theatrically” plated dishes and whole leaf tea.
Guests will also have access to the hotel’s gym and six Ryokan Spa Suites with Asian inspired treatments.
Ellen Kensington’s name pays homage to the building’s storied past. It is inspired by the iconic British stage actress Dame Ellen Terry, who was considered one of the most famous leading ladies of the Victorian Era. At the height of her stage career, Dame Ellen lived at 22 Barkston Gardens, which is now marked by an English Heritage Blue Plaque.
Ellen Kensington is the second property in the UK market to be operated by KOP Group’s Montigo Resorts hospitality brand, following the 2023 opening of the Grade II listed, 28-room English country house Montigo Resorts Somerset at Charlton House.
