I probably get asked for recommendations in London as often as I get asked for recommendations in Los Angeles, so I like to pretend that I’m transatlantic—ha, one day! Though I’m not quite that cool, it is my favorite city, and I’ve even gotten myself into my own little routine for how I do things and where I stay. I almost always book two different hotels because I love to try out new neighborhoods, and um, if you haven’t noticed…hotels are my thing! On this particular trip, I was so excited to visit the Artist Residence, quite literally a townhouse walkup (meaning no elevators), so if you want to feel like a real Londoner, this hotel will give you a taste.

Behind every great brand, there is inevitably a great story. And so the story goes, cofounder Justin Salisbury dropped out of university to help run the family B&B in Brighton. Wanting to improve the business with very little budget, he put out an ad for local artists to decorate rooms in exchange for board. The plan worked, and hundreds of artists descended on the place, and thus, Artist Residence was born. They now have four locations across England, with plans to open a fifth next year.

Welcome to your home away from home. This is Artist Residence Pimlico.

What I Love: This eclectic townhouse feels like you have moved into the neighborhood, and the neighborhood quickly became my new favorite. Located in the design district of Pimlico village, you are a hop, skip, and a jump from Belgravia & Chelsea.

Something to Know: This hotel does not have an elevator, and our room was on the top floor. The kind girl at the front desk helped us with our luggage, but they did not offer piggyback rides! They are also a stickler for the 11 a.m. checkout, meaning they were going to charge extra when I asked to extend to noon. I declined.

Suite Dreams: Our Tielle Love Luxury sheets were so amazing, I hunted down the company to see if I could have them shipped to L.A. Sadly their king size sheets aren’t big enough for a standard American king, but I highly recommend them if you have a smaller bed!

Stylish Sips: Artist Residence Pimlico was a former pub, and is now a 10-bedroom boutique hotel with a fabulous restaurant and cocktail cellar that features cheeky movie-inspired cocktails. With a laidback vibe, and amazing food, I would recommend either even if you aren’t staying the night.

Cool Factor: They have managed to create an artsy vibe minus the pretension that sometimes comes as an unwelcome side effect.

Hero Shot: Our full English breakfast was my favorite meal we had in London, and I will remember it fondly in photos.

 

PS. No matter what new hotel I try in London, my heart still remains with this one.

PSS. An ultra luxury hotel in London

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