The Portobello Hotel, London

• Instantly memorable and full of character, this is one of the most unique boutique hotels in London.
• The Notting Hill setting puts you within strolling distance of Portobello Road Market, surrounded by some of West London's best restaurants, galleries, and independent boutiques.
• Even the smallest rooms here are special, but larger options add extras like four-poster beds and freestanding rolltop baths.
• Look out for cool, one-of-a-kind pieces sourced from nearby Portobello Road Market—including vintage Penguin paperbacks in the rooms and cut-crystal glasses in the downstairs honesty bar.
• Rear-facing rooms overlook the private green space of Stanley Gardens.

• Most rooms don't include TVs (a conscious effort to help guests "shut off" during their stay).
• You won't find amenities like a restaurant or a spa at this intimate, townhouse-style hotel.

Authenticity

There's over fifty years of rock ' n ' roll history within the walls of these two 19th-century Notting Hill townhouses, which were first converted into a hotel in 1971. Van Morrison used to lock himself away here for songwriting sessions, Blur's Damon Albarn once worked behind the bar, and Kate Moss is rumored to have filled one of the rolltop bathtubs with Champagne. The bohemian character remains, now updated with a bit more boutique polish, and the interiors are a jewel box of color and texture, filled with antique furniture and eclectic curios from nearby Portobello Road Market. Despite the starry clientele, the overall vibe is distinctly relaxed and low-key, with a delightfully friendly staff.

Location

The hotel's address is classic Notting Hill, sitting among a row of crisp, white Victorian terraces overlooking the private greenery of Stanley Gardens to the rear. It's a quiet, residential setting, despite being just around the corner from Portobello Road Market. Other neighborhood institutions like the Electric Cinema, Ottolenghi, and Daunt Books are within an easy 7-minute stroll, and transport links are excellent—you're a 10-minute walk from Notting Hill Gate station, where you can catch the Central Line east to Oxford Circus and the West End in under 10 minutes, or ride the District Line for 5 minutes to reach nearby Paddington Station and the Heathrow Express. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

None of the hotel's 21 rooms is alike, each channeling a sumptuous brand of bohemian excess with lush wallpapers, rich color palettes, and Portobello Road Market antiques. Good and Better units are the most snug; Great rooms sport high ceilings and French windows, while some Marvellous options add patios and sofa beds. Outstanding and Best book up the fastest—plan well ahead if you're keen to experience the latter's gilded murals, Victorian bath, and circular bed. Bathrooms are just as varied as the rooms, most with walk-in drench showers, freestanding rolltop baths, and full-sized Green & Spring toiletries. One ground-floor room is accessible for guests with limited mobility, and all floors are reached via elevator.

Amenities

This is a small, townhouse-style hotel, so common areas are limited to the drawing room-like lobby and an adjoining lounge complete with a well-stocked honesty bar and cocktail-making instructions. There's no restaurant on-site, but sandwiches and salads can be ordered to your room or the lounge when you need a quick bite between meals. Breakfast is standard continental fare with cooked-to-order options, perfectly pleasant but easy to miss when Notting Hill's many bakeries and brunch spots are on your doorstep. 

Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome at the Portobello, but the vibe leans toward adults and couples. Families won't find many amenities or room options for little ones beyond the Marvelous units with a sofa bed.