Plan a city break to remember in one of these exceptional luxury London rental homes that not only looks special, but feels special. Compiled in partnership with Smarter
IMAGE: THE CHARACTERFUL AND COLOURFUL LIVING ROOM AT BRUNSWICK GARDENS IN KENSINGTON
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that travel is a luxury. And when travel is elevated, our expectations are too. In this ‘new’ world of travel we can and should be more discerning, more stringent on value and more aware of the wider impact of our trip.
That’s where Smarter comes in; the luxury short-stay booking platform which launched in 2021 and features some of the finest luxury London rental homes. Founded by Guy van der Westhuizen, it aims to distil quality from quantity through its strict selection process of homes, its exceptional management service and its competitive prices.
Then there are Smarter’s sustainability credentials. A portion of every booking is donated to Smarter’s Stay for Good Foundation which funds carbon offset projects around the world – you can see exactly how much when you make your booking. In April they were awarded B Corp status, which demonstrates their high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.
So if you’re looking for a city break in the capital this Summer, then these five beautiful Smarter homes may just be what you’re looking for….
Brunswick Gardens, Kensington
This Kensington townhouse is elegance personified without compromising on comfort. We adore its casually luxurious feel, conjured up by playful interiors brimming with colour. This archetypal London stucco terrace immediately feels like home and here, you will find characterful antiques, lively prints and lovingly collected artwork at every turn. With five bedrooms and plenty of space for all of the family to settle in and have fun, this is a rare gem. Sitting between Kensington High Street and Notting Hill, it’s a wonderful base from which to explore the capital’s most attractive neighbourhoods and feel like a local. Book here.
Brondesbury Road, Hampstead
Bright, light and cleverly designed, this is a truly beautiful five-bedroom family home. While the children let off steam in the large garden or battle over a game of ping pong, the elegant and colourful sitting room on the ground floor provides a lovely spot for the adults to enjoy a glass of wine or plan the day’s excursions. While the vast kitchen diner overlooking the garden is a wonderful family space to all come together. Sitting on a pretty, tree-lined residential street in Hampstead, it’s just a quick stroll to family-friendly Queen’s Park and a short tube journey to Paddington and Marylebone. Book here.
Royal Crescent, Holland Park
This apartment on Holland Park’s magnificent Royal Crescent is as much about what’s on the outside as on the inside. This sweeping Grade II listed street is a beautiful base from which to explore the city. The private terrace with its ornate wrought iron surround overlooking the leafy residents’ garden beyond, is the perfect spot for a morning cup of coffee or supper as the sun goes down. With two bedrooms, a pretty and functional kitchen and a unique curved living area, all of which are flooded with light, this is a lovely spot. Book here.
Prince’s Square, Bayswater
This magnificent first-floor apartment expertly blends handsome architecture, elegant interiors and a wonderful sense of space. Its airy and graceful sitting room boasts two large French windows which open onto a large private terrace overlooking a leafy garden square. If the weather doesn’t allow for eating al fresco, there is a chic dining area next to the kitchen, while a beautiful master bedroom with its own private flower-lined terrace is a peaceful retreat at the end of the day. There is also a sofa bed in the sitting room for extra guests. With Kensington Palace and Hyde Park on its doorstep, this is true London luxury. Book here.
Parkfields, Putney
If you are drawn to London’s riverside neighbourhoods, then this fabulous three-bedroom family home on one of Putney’s most charming residential roads might just be what you’re looking for. Designed with families in mind, this is a true home from home with everything you need to allow you to settle into your stay with ease. A large and bright open plan living and dining area caters for all the family, as does the lovely walled garden with its swing and comfortable dining set. The large and luxurious shower in the master en suite is very inviting indeed, while playful touches in the children’s rooms provide a warm welcome to younger guests. Book here.
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