What’s Safestay London Kensington Holland Park like?
This has to be one of the grandest hostels in the world, and both dogs and humans can enjoy its central London location.
The Grade I listed property – formerly known as Cope Castle – was once home to royalty but was badly damaged by bombs during the Blitz. Fortunately though, its East Wing survived and that is where you can stay today.
How dog-friendly is Safestay London Kensington Holland Park?
Very good. Dogs are allowed everywhere, except for in the bar area. There is plenty of outdoor seating though so fingers crossed for good weather when you visit!
Tell me more about Safestay London Kensington Holland Park
Being a hostel, there are of course dorms but you certainly won’t be slumming it here. Most rooms – either in the main house or a 1950s extension – have private bathrooms.
Rooms are simple but all come with mod-cons such as free Wifi, 40-inch flatscreen TVs and tea and coffee making facilities. Private rooms also have en-suites and you’ll even get a chocolate on your pillow when you check in.
Our dog-friendly double was right by the night entrance. There were a fair amount of comings and goings after dark but it didn’t bother Ernie too much. The location also meant it was easy to pop out for his late night pee.
What’s the food like at Safestay London Kensington Holland Park?
The hostel’s ground floor bar serves pizza, sandwiches, snacks and a range of hot and cold drinks, but no alcohol. It also offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast for just £4 – amazing value for London.
There are a whole host of bars and eateries on your doorstep, though. Maggie Jones’s – one of the late Princess Margaret’s favourite restaurants – welcomes four-legged friends and The Builder’s Arms pub has dog treats aplenty.
Are there resident dogs at Safestay London Kensington Holland Park?
No, but you won’t have to stray far to find some.
Where are the best dog walks near Safestay London Kensington Holland Park?
As you may have guessed from the name, the hostel is located in one of London’s finest green spaces – Holland Park. Here, you will encounter some of the city’s poshest pooches chasing squirrels, jogging with their owners and playing ball. It’s a real doggy heaven.
Kensington High Street is close by, as is Hyde Park and attractions such as the V&A and Natural History Museum. We loved just walking past all the stunning townhouses though, and deciding which one we’d buy if we were millionaires. For more ideas and inspiration for dog-friendly activities in West London, take a look at my Ruff Guide.
What Ernie loved about Safestay London Kensington Holland Park
Chasing squirrels in the park, travelling on the Tube
What I loved about Safestay London Kensington Holland Park
The beautiful hostel building, being so close to central London
How to book Safestay London Kensington Holland Park
A night in a private room sleeping two to four people at Safestay London Kensington Holland Park starts from £75. For more information, visit the Safestay website.