We book into the swish London ‘aparthotel’ that’s perfect for summer staycations in the city.
The low-down
Ever heard of an ‘aparthotel’? Nope, us neither, until we booked into Wilde Aparthotels – a new luxury venture from Irish hotel brand Staycity. It’s a cross between an apartment and a hotel, and as it turns out, it’s a really smart idea.
If you’re heading to London this summer and want to experience it like a local, these apartments are your perfect luxury go-to.
This collection of rooms and suites blends everything you love about a five-star boutique hotel with the freedom of a self-catered apartment.
The location
‘Location-wise, it doesn’t get better.’
The Wilde Aparthotels are in London’s West End. Covent Garden is a short stroll away, and you’re on prime footing for landmarks like Trafalgar Square and London’s top theatres.
You’re spoilt for amenities, with chains like Byron Burger, Pret and Leon on your doorstep, as well as Boots, a small Tesco, several artisan coffee shops and some iconic cocktail bars. Great walkable restaurants include Sticks ‘n’ Sushi, The Big Easy, The Ivy Market Grill and Balthazar.
The apartments
The Wilde Aparthotels are among the quirkiest apartments in London. They blend gorgeous interior design with futuristic technology. These individually designed apartments make really good use of the space.
You’ll want to book a superior studio room (some of the cheaper rooms don’t have kitchens), and for that, you’ll enjoy a plush apartment that you’ll wish was your own.
The studio rooms feature a small kitchen that’s fully kitted out, an en-suite with a Raindance shower, a dreamy Hypnos bed and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning city views.
The kitchen has everything you need to prepare a fry-up or a simple dinner, which is great if you’re staying more than one night. There’s a microwave, a small hob, a designer kettle and toaster, a mini fridge and a dishwasher. Plus, lots of pots, pans and utensils. I had everything I needed.
The open plan space is filled with trendy-looking yet practical knick-knacks, like a wooden megaphone that doubles up as a speaker for your phone. The shelves are lined with useful guides and yummy nibbles.
Technology is a big focus in the apartments. There’s a huge smart TV with all your favourite streaming services, high-end appliances like a Nespresso machine, and fancy touch controls for the air con and lights.
All your essentials are included too, saving you a trip to Tesco. The rooms come with shower gel and shampoo, olive oil, tea bags, coffee, milk and more – all complimentary. You can also dive into the fully-stocked minibar to pay for any extras you might want.
The rest
One thing worth mentioning is that although the website advertises 24-hour check-in, you can only check in from 3 pm onwards, as we discovered when we turned up bags in hand at 11 am. The reception is 24 hours, though, and check-out is a reasonable midday. The staff are more than happy to store your bags while you explore London.
The apartments are serviced, so you can request extra towels if you need them and for your room to be cleaned, too, if you’re staying for more than a night or two.
An interesting fact to finish: the hotel was named after Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde, with his memorial just around the corner
Wildeapart Hotels by Staycity – Where & How?
Wildeapart Hotels is located at 11 Adam Street, London WC2N 6AA. Apartments start from £160 per night, with no minimum stay required.
For bookings or to find out more, click here or call +44 (0)203 744 7520.
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