The location: A short walk from Gloucester Park tube station, this set of apartments is one of six luxury properties managed by the Cheval Group. There are 100 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
The Check-In: From the minute you set foot in the lobby, set next to the property’s private gardens, you are in good hands. When available, house manager Claudia Kailich-Ofner personally meets all arriving guests and provides a comprehensive introduction to Gloucester Park’s 24-hour concierge services and apartment facilities.
The apartment: My contemporary-style suite-apartment had a sophisticated feel and makes good use of its spacious layout. It featured two en-suite bedrooms, decked out in soft brown and white tones; a living room with a large dining table and modern-art hangings; a ‘study’ or work area and a fully-equipped top-of-the-range sleek Miele kitchen. Technology features included a widescreen TV, DVD and CD player, phone line, wifi internet and fax machine. There was a large en-suite granite bathroom. Each apartment has large picture windows and a balcony that overlooks the property’s secluded garden.
The Facilities: There’s a 24-hour concierge desk and maid service is available Monday to Friday. Guests arrive to find a generous welcome hamper waiting for them, consisting entirely of quality British goodies such as Beetroot pickle and caramelised shallot pickle from the Isle of Wight, plus handmade chocolates. More essential supplies include milk, coffee and eggs, along with some cleaning materials. A mini London A-Z is also included. Secure underground car parking is £98 per week (+VAT). There is an on-site fitness centre with saunas.
The Verdict: Just minutes from central Kensington, this sophisticated property pulls off the illusion of being far away from the city. For the discerning traveller looking for a long-stay bolthole with all modern – and cosy – comforts in a central yet quiet residential location, Gloucester Park is hard to beat.
The Details: Gloucester Park, Ashburn Place, Kensington, London SW7 4LL. One-bedroom apartments from £1,310 per week; £1,645 for two bedrooms and £2,865 for three bedrooms, excluding VAT. Minimum stay is 90 days. Tel: +44 (0)20 7373 1444; or see: www.chevalgroup.com Steve Hartridge
