Pros

  • Ideal location between Hyde Park and South Kensington
  • Peaceful boutique hotel vibe, with only 52 rooms in total
  • Individually designed rooms feature antiques and original furniture
  • In-room features include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and Handy smartphones
  • Popular gourmet restaurant serving locally sourced British fare
  • Cozy bar used to be frequented by The Rolling Stones
  • One room includes Judy Garland's own bed (she stayed here often)
  • Top London landmarks and attractions are within walking distance
  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
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Cons

  • Breakfast is expensive, and some guests complain about limited selection
  • Some may find the historic look old-fashioned and stuffy
  • There are no accessible rooms
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Bottom Line

Opened in 1892, the 53-room The Gore London is a historic property in the affluent South Kensington area of London. The hotel draws on its past, with rooms that are quintessentially British, and adorned with original paintings and rich tapestries. High-end amenities include large TVs, Penhaligon toiletries, and Handy phones, but notably, there are no accessible rooms. The 190 Queen’s Gate restaurant is popular with locals and residents alike and serves British dishes with locally sourced ingredients. A rock 'n' roll bar is open late and has an extensive whiskey selection, plus there are three meeting rooms and a cozy library that doubles as a lounge. Rates are steep, even for this exclusive postal code. For a more budget-friendly stay, consider DoubleTree by Hilton, Kensington.

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Oyster Hotel Review

The Gore – Starhotels Collezione

Scene

Grand, historic hotel with original artwork and a welcoming atmosphere

Built as a serviced residence for visitors to London’s 1851 Great Exhibition, the hotel has had an esteemed past life. Under the patronage of Prince Albert, its frequent guests included Judy Garland, who stayed so often she eventually donated her bed. Inspired by its illustrious history, the design throughout is unwaveringly classical. Original tapestries line the walls in communal areas alongside 18th and 19th century classical paintings. A wrought iron staircase climbs upwards, and there’s a smattering of Tudor influences too, like the dark-wood paneling and painted stuccos. The bar is particularly attractive and -- like the rest of the building -- it has a story to tell. In 1968, the Rolling Stones had their "Beggars Banquet" launch party here and so there are photos of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards as well as the album’s gold record on the walls. The vibe is laid back and the space remains informal despite its obviously posh pedigree. Checked fabrics and an overload of wood create a warm and inviting atmosphere that's unsurprisingly popular with guests. This hotel’s rates are high -- even for a Central London property -- but tourists and special-occasion celebrants are frequently drawn to the charming style and history of the place. 

See More Scene

Location

Under a five-minute walk to Hyde Park, on a tree-lined street in South Kensington

The Gore sits in quiet and well-to-do Queen’s Gate, which is conveniently nestled between South Kensington and Hyde Park. It’s perfectly positioned to explore some of London’s most beloved attractions, and most are within walking distance. The Royal Albert is a three-minute walk from the hotel and a four-minute stroll from Hyde Park. The Natural History Museum and the Science Museum are both under a quick 10-minute walk from the hotel. Kensington Palace takes 10 minutes to reach on foot. For culture and art lovers, The Victoria and Albert Museum is a must for its collection of decorative arts and is just 12 minutes away on foot. It’s a slightly longer 20-minute walk to Knightsbridge, one of London’s best shopping districts and home to Harrods and Harvey Nichols. It’s possible to cut the walking time in half by taking a bus instead. South Kensington station is the closest underground station and takes 13 minutes to reach on foot, although most landmarks such as Buckingham Palace are best reached by bus in around 20 minutes. Heathrow is the closest airport and is an hour away by train or half an hour driving, depending on the traffic. It takes around an hour to drive to Luton Airport. 

See More Location

Rooms

Classical style with impressive antiques and original pieces, plus flat-screen TVs and Handy smartphones

The 53 rooms are all classically styled and include details like regal beds with ornate headboards. Interiors vary across the categories, and each room has an individual look. Configurations range from Singles to the Tudor Suite. The rich color palette of deep reds and blues is a hallmark across the board, and accents like heavy draped curtains, oak carved headboards, grand antiques, and period artwork with thick gilded frames all contribute to the dramatic effect. For fans of this look, it’s an immersive and decadent step back in time. For those who prefer a more modern and refined look, these rooms can feel overwhelming and stuffy. Beds are comfortable and large, made with Frette linens. All rooms have at least an armchair or desk chair, while the larger suites feature sofas and separate seating areas. This hotel appeals more to leisure travelers, but there are still work desks in every unit. 

Amenities include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffee-and-tea-making facilities, air-conditioning, plus wardrobes with safes. Each room has a Handy smartphone too, which allows guests to make international calls and contains maps and useful information. Bathrooms are particularly special. Varying from room to room, some are decked out all in black with statues beside the bathtub. Elsewhere, redwood clad bathrooms feature regal toilets disguised as wooden thrones. There’s even a mythical Roman mural on the tiles of one bathroom. Expect hairdryers and high-end bath products as well.

The best rooms are the Suites. The Judy Garland Junior Suite is home to the star’s own bed, which has a gold gilded headboard of carved roses, as well as stained glass windows and an ancient Roman-inspired bathtub. The most impressive option, however, is the Tudor Suite, with its mahogany four-poster bed, oak-beamed ceilings, stone fireplace, stained glass windows, and 15th-century minstrels’ gallery. 

See More Rooms

Features

Intimate and cozy restaurant and a rock ‘n’ roll bar, plus three stylish meeting rooms 

As you’d expect from a hotel of this caliber, features are high end. Michelin-starred chef Daniel Galmiche heads up the kitchen at the 190 Queen’s Gate restaurant. The food is classically British and locally sourced, but with a sophisticated French twist. The restaurant opens for all three meals including a continental breakfast and traditional Afternoon Tea. Just across the lobby from the restaurant is Bar 190. It’s been a firm fixture on the London nightlife scene for years and secured its position as the place to be seen with the launch party for The Rolling Stones. Today it serves an extensive range of spirits, but particularly champions rum and whiskeys. Small plates are also served here. 

The hotel has a number of meeting and event spaces including The Library, Tapestry Room, and Mulberry Room. Each is decorated individually and are best suited to intimate weddings, events, meetings, and conferences. The hotel’s dedicated event staff can provide equipment as well. Wi-Fi is high-speed and signal boosters ensure a speedy connection for events. Finally, the hotel runs several tours including the best, a Landmarks of London Tour. This three-hour tour takes place in a classic car from the 1920s to the '60s, including a rather fancy Daimler.

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Things You Should Know About The Gore – Starhotels Collezione

Also Known As

  • The Gore Hotel

Address

190 Queen's Gate, London SW7 5EX, United Kingdom

Website

Oyster Hotel Review

The Gore – Starhotels Collezione

Scene

Grand, historic hotel with original artwork and a welcoming atmosphere

Built as a serviced residence for visitors to London’s 1851 Great Exhibition, the hotel has had an esteemed past life. Under the patronage of Prince Albert, its frequent guests included Judy Garland, who stayed so often she eventually donated her bed. Inspired by its illustrious history, the design throughout is unwaveringly classical. Original tapestries line the walls in communal areas alongside 18th and 19th century classical paintings. A wrought iron staircase climbs upwards, and there’s a smattering of Tudor influences too, like the dark-wood paneling and painted stuccos. The bar is particularly attractive and -- like the rest of the building -- it has a story to tell. In 1968, the Rolling Stones had their "Beggars Banquet" launch party here and so there are photos of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards as well as the album’s gold record on the walls. The vibe is laid back and the space remains informal despite its obviously posh pedigree. Checked fabrics and an overload of wood create a warm and inviting atmosphere that's unsurprisingly popular with guests. This hotel’s rates are high -- even for a Central London property -- but tourists and special-occasion celebrants are frequently drawn to the charming style and history of the place. 

See More Scene

Location

Under a five-minute walk to Hyde Park, on a tree-lined street in South Kensington

The Gore sits in quiet and well-to-do Queen’s Gate, which is conveniently nestled between South Kensington and Hyde Park. It’s perfectly positioned to explore some of London’s most beloved attractions, and most are within walking distance. The Royal Albert is a three-minute walk from the hotel and a four-minute stroll from Hyde Park. The Natural History Museum and the Science Museum are both under a quick 10-minute walk from the hotel. Kensington Palace takes 10 minutes to reach on foot. For culture and art lovers, The Victoria and Albert Museum is a must for its collection of decorative arts and is just 12 minutes away on foot. It’s a slightly longer 20-minute walk to Knightsbridge, one of London’s best shopping districts and home to Harrods and Harvey Nichols. It’s possible to cut the walking time in half by taking a bus instead. South Kensington station is the closest underground station and takes 13 minutes to reach on foot, although most landmarks such as Buckingham Palace are best reached by bus in around 20 minutes. Heathrow is the closest airport and is an hour away by train or half an hour driving, depending on the traffic. It takes around an hour to drive to Luton Airport. 

See More Location

Rooms

Classical style with impressive antiques and original pieces, plus flat-screen TVs and Handy smartphones

The 53 rooms are all classically styled and include details like regal beds with ornate headboards. Interiors vary across the categories, and each room has an individual look. Configurations range from Singles to the Tudor Suite. The rich color palette of deep reds and blues is a hallmark across the board, and accents like heavy draped curtains, oak carved headboards, grand antiques, and period artwork with thick gilded frames all contribute to the dramatic effect. For fans of this look, it’s an immersive and decadent step back in time. For those who prefer a more modern and refined look, these rooms can feel overwhelming and stuffy. Beds are comfortable and large, made with Frette linens. All rooms have at least an armchair or desk chair, while the larger suites feature sofas and separate seating areas. This hotel appeals more to leisure travelers, but there are still work desks in every unit. 

Amenities include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffee-and-tea-making facilities, air-conditioning, plus wardrobes with safes. Each room has a Handy smartphone too, which allows guests to make international calls and contains maps and useful information. Bathrooms are particularly special. Varying from room to room, some are decked out all in black with statues beside the bathtub. Elsewhere, redwood clad bathrooms feature regal toilets disguised as wooden thrones. There’s even a mythical Roman mural on the tiles of one bathroom. Expect hairdryers and high-end bath products as well.

The best rooms are the Suites. The Judy Garland Junior Suite is home to the star’s own bed, which has a gold gilded headboard of carved roses, as well as stained glass windows and an ancient Roman-inspired bathtub. The most impressive option, however, is the Tudor Suite, with its mahogany four-poster bed, oak-beamed ceilings, stone fireplace, stained glass windows, and 15th-century minstrels’ gallery. 

See More Rooms

Features

Intimate and cozy restaurant and a rock ‘n’ roll bar, plus three stylish meeting rooms 

As you’d expect from a hotel of this caliber, features are high end. Michelin-starred chef Daniel Galmiche heads up the kitchen at the 190 Queen’s Gate restaurant. The food is classically British and locally sourced, but with a sophisticated French twist. The restaurant opens for all three meals including a continental breakfast and traditional Afternoon Tea. Just across the lobby from the restaurant is Bar 190. It’s been a firm fixture on the London nightlife scene for years and secured its position as the place to be seen with the launch party for The Rolling Stones. Today it serves an extensive range of spirits, but particularly champions rum and whiskeys. Small plates are also served here. 

The hotel has a number of meeting and event spaces including The Library, Tapestry Room, and Mulberry Room. Each is decorated individually and are best suited to intimate weddings, events, meetings, and conferences. The hotel’s dedicated event staff can provide equipment as well. Wi-Fi is high-speed and signal boosters ensure a speedy connection for events. Finally, the hotel runs several tours including the best, a Landmarks of London Tour. This three-hour tour takes place in a classic car from the 1920s to the '60s, including a rather fancy Daimler.

See More Features

Best Rates

Amenities

  • Air Conditioner

  • Babysitting Services

  • Business Center

  • Cable

  • Concierge

  • Dry Cleaning

  • Internet

  • Kids Allowed

  • Laundry

  • Meeting / Conference Rooms

  • Mini Bar (with liquor)

  • Room Service

  • Separate Bedroom / Living Room Space

Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.