THE ACADEMY - SMALL LUXURY HOTELS OF THE WORLD, London – Your ideal downtown stay
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Key details
Hotel Overview
21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury,
London,
United Kingdom,
WC1E6HG,
Greater London
-
Close to the British Museum
Great
8.2
8.7
/10
4.2
4.1
/5
Loved by The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World guests
Amazing staff
Comfy bedroom
Lovely shower
Quiet rooms
Tasteful decoration
Cool location
"Hotel was unique in that there were a bunch of vibe-y, small spaces to lounge."
Karine from United States
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"Nice little bar which is quite private."
LeeTalker from United Kingdom
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"The library and back garden were extra bonuses."
Christina from United States
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Accommodations
The Academy comprises 50 guest rooms and suites set in five Georgian townhouses. Each accommodation offers a contemporary take on townhouse living, curated by renowned designer Alexandra Champalimaud. Every room features bespoke furniture and marble en-suite shower rooms.
Dining Options
The Academy provides diverse dining experiences, transitioning from traditional comforts to modern tastes. Guests can enjoy a complimentary Alkkemist Gin & Tonic at the Alchemy Bar, where bespoke cocktails are offered. Mr Ma's Afternoon Tea combines culinary heritage with a contemporary touch, featuring a glass of Prosecco upon arrival for two.
Location
The hotel is centrally located in Bloomsbury, just a 4-minute walk from the British Museum. Close proximity to major landmarks such as Covent Garden, Soho, and the bustling shops of Oxford Street contributes to its appeal. Access to various transportation options, including Euston, Kings Cross, and Holborn stations, enhances connectivity.
Event Spaces
The Genius Lab at The Academy serves as a versatile venue for small meetings and receptions. This space is suited for cocktails and canapés, accommodating various event types. Exclusive use of the hotel is available, allowing for customized events tailored to client needs.
Unique Experiences
Guests at The Academy can partake in the Academy Book Club, highlighting the literary history of Bloomsbury. The Library offers a serene space for reflection and reading, showcasing the area's rich cultural heritage. Afternoon Tea in The Courtyard provides a tranquil setting to enjoy a selection of teas and refreshments.
Highlights
Location: Central Bloomsbury, 4 min from British Museum
Event Spaces: The Genius Lab for meetings & receptions
Experiences: Academy Book Club & serene Library
Must-do experiences
Stroll through the British Museum-free entry and endless wonders.
Savor authentic fish and chips at Poppies in Spitalfields Market.
Discover the charm of Neal's Yard for quirky shops and color.
Visit the little-known Leighton House Museum in Kensington.
Catch a West End show; ask for last-minute ticket deals!
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Choose Your Room
Our listed hotels offer a variety of room types—double rooms, family suites, or deluxe options—all with features like breakfast, flexible cancellation policies, and exclusive deals.
Bloomsbury King Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Bloomsbury Single
2 persons
155 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Bloomsbury Twin
2 persons
230 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
room details
Townhouse Double
2 persons
230 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
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Amenities
Thoughtful hotel amenities for a comfortable stay
Facilities:
Great
8.2/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Car park
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus
Business
Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Direct dial telephone
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
Indulge in delightful dining experiences at The Academy, where British flavors come to life in charming settings. From a leisurely breakfast to an elegant Afternoon Tea, every meal is an opportunity to savor both taste and ambiance.
The Alchemy
British
Ambiance
A cozy bar leading to a larger terrace, complete with heating lamps, perfect for casual gatherings or intimate evenings.
Key Offerings
Explore a tempting cocktail menu curated by mixologist Ilias Chondros, featuring selections like the Tanqueray Bloomsbury Martini and Midnight Manhattan. Guests can also enjoy a diverse menu highlighting dishes such as smoked paprika calamari, four cheese ravioli, and hearty beef lasagne.
Reservation
Not needed.
Hours vary.
The Refectory
Continental breakfast
Ambiance
Stylish yet relaxed surroundings create a warm atmosphere, ideal for starting the day on a pleasant note.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a complimentary Continental breakfast featuring a selection of pastries, fruits, and beverages to energize the morning.
Reservation
Not needed.
Breakfast only.
Afternoon Tea
Traditional British
Ambiance
Located in a secluded and elegant West End setting, perfect for leisurely afternoon gatherings.
Key Offerings
Guests can partake in quintessential Afternoon Tea, featuring a selection of teas paired with delectable pastries and sandwiches.
Reservation
Recommended.
Hours vary.
Hotel Location
21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury,
London,
United Kingdom,
WC1E6HG,
Greater London
Map view
21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury,
London,
United Kingdom,
WC1E6HG,
Greater London
City landmarks
Museum
The British Museum
2100 ft
Landmark
Coca-Cola London Eye
1.3
mi
Garden
Buckingham Palace
1.4
mi
Square
Trafalgar Square
5100 ft
Museum
National Gallery
1.0
mi
Landmark
Big Ben
1.4
mi
Church
Westminster Abbey
1.5
mi
Landmark
Madame Tussauds London
1.5
mi
Park
Hyde Park
1.8
mi
Landmark
Oxford Street
2700 ft
Opera House
Covent Garden
2800 ft
Market
Borough Market
2.0
mi
Square
Piccadilly Circus
5100 ft
Landmark
Marylebone
5200 ft
Castle
Tower of London
2.5
mi
Gallery
Tate Modern
1.6
mi
Church
St Paul's Cathedral
1.5
mi
Palace
St James's Park
1.3
mi
Landmark
Churchill War Rooms
1.3
mi
Harbour
Tower Bridge
2.6
mi
Public Building
Houses of Parliament
1.5
mi
Church
Westminster
1.5
mi
Mosque
The Regent's Park
1.3
mi
Zoo
ZSL London Zoo
1.5
mi
Gallery
National Portrait Gallery
4700 ft
Landmark
Gordon Square
2900 ft
Museum
London Transport Museum
4300 ft
Landmark
Seven Dials
2900 ft
Nearby
Hospital
University of London
2000 ft
Restaurants
Olivelli
500 ft
35 Store Street
The Life Goddess
600 ft
29 Store Street
Chettinad Restaurant
1300 ft
16 Percy Street Soho
The College Arms
600 ft
Wc1e 7dh 18 Store Street
Busaba Bloomsbury
900 ft
22 Store Street Bloomsbury
Spaghetti House
1300 ft
Palladium House 1-4 Argyll Street
Mybar Bloomsbury
1100 ft
11-13 Bayley Street
GAIL's Bakery Bloomsbury
1200 ft
11 Bayley Street
Explore London
Explore Bloomsbury
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The British Museum
8 minutes' walk
World-renowned museum featuring extensive collections of art and antiquities. Free admission, with guided tours available.
Covent Garden
11 minutes' walk
Vibrant area known for shopping, dining, and street performances. A must-visit for its lively atmosphere and unique shops.
Trafalgar Square
19 minutes' walk
Iconic public square featuring Nelson's Column and the National Gallery. Hosts various events and art installations throughout the year.
National Gallery
20 minutes' walk
Home to an extensive collection of Western European paintings. Free entry, with special exhibitions and late-night openings.
Yoga Classes at Core Collective
10 minutes' walk
Rejuvenating yoga classes in a serene environment. Easily accessible for relaxation after a day of city exploration.
Cycling in Bloomsbury
5 minutes' walk
Biking through Bloomsbury's picturesque streets. Rentals available nearby, ideal for thrill-seekers wanting to explore quickly.
Outdoor Picnic at Cartwright Gardens
7 minutes' walk
Lovely gardens perfect for a family picnic or quiet respite amidst nature. Open access and well-kept green spaces to enjoy.
Olivelli
2 minutes' walk
Charming Italian pizzeria known for its wood-fired pizzas and warm atmosphere. Vegetarian options available, reservations recommended.
The Life Goddess
2 minutes' walk
Greek restaurant with a modern twist, serving fresh ingredients. Popular choices include moussaka and mezze platters.
Busaba Bloomsbury
4 minutes' walk
Casual Thai eatery famous for its aromatic dishes and communal dining. Excellent choice for those looking for vibrant flavors.
Chettinad Restaurant
5 minutes' walk
Authentic South Indian cuisine featuring spicy dishes and a cozy setting. Offers vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The Royal Opera House
15 minutes' walk
Prestigious venue for opera and ballet performances. Check for family-friendly shows and enjoy a night of culture.
The Comedy Store
20 minutes' walk
Famous comedy club hosting stand-up shows. Lively atmosphere with varied performances, suitable for all ages.
The Piano Works
20 minutes' walk
Unique live music venue where the audience chooses the songs. Great for a night out filled with entertainment and good vibes.
Transportation Tips
City Centre
London18 min
·
5000 ft
Airports
London City Airport (LCY)23 min
·
9.3
mi
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)43 min
·
17.7
mi
Train
Euston railway Station11 min
·
3000 ft
Underground
Goodge Street tube4 min
·
1000 ft
Bus
Bus stop6 min
·
1700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby at GBP 32.50 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
A continental breakfast is served and charges are applicable.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Spanish, Italian
Year renovated:
2012
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
50
Guest Reviews & Ratings
What Guests Are Saying?
Review score
Based on 1108 verified reviews
8.2/10
Great
83%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.1/10
Cleanliness
8.8/10
Comfort
8.8/10
Facilities
8.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Location
9.3/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.1/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
7.8/10
Pros
Excellent breakfast
Helpful staff
Good location
Cons
Noisy air conditioner
Guest reviews
based on 2516 reviews
8.2/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
What are the standard check-in and check-out times at The Academy?
20 November 2024
Check-in begins at 14:00, and check-out should be completed by 11:00.
Is it possible to add an extra bed in the room? Is there a sofa bed available?
15 March 2024
There is a sofa bed that accommodates one guest under the age of 16.
Can luggage be stored at the hotel if I arrive before check-in time or have a late check-out?
5 April 2024
Luggage can be securely stored at the reception, allowing you to explore before check-in or after check-out.
If I book a non-refundable rate, can I change the dates if necessary due to unforeseen circumstances?
27 January 2025
Non-refundable bookings can be amended up to 14 days before arrival.
Is room service available at The Academy?
8 July 2024
Currently, room service is not available. However, beverages can be enjoyed at The Alchemy Bar, open until 22:30.
How does the airport transfer service work, and is there a charge for it?
22 August 2024
Airport transfers can be arranged through the reception team for an additional fee.
What are the breakfast hours on weekdays?
13 June 2024
Breakfast is served daily from 08:00 to 10:00.
Are there any options for vegan breakfast available?
30 September 2024
Yes, there are vegan breakfast choices available, although options may be limited.
Can assistance be provided with bringing luggage to the room, given that there is no lift?
1 May 2024
The reception team is happy to assist with bringing luggage to your room.
How far is The Academy from major attractions like the British Museum?
11 November 2024
The British Museum is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel.
Is there parking available on or near the property?
17 February 2025
While there is no on-site parking, the Bloomsbury Square car park is located nearby.
Can you provide information about the nearby dining options?
19 December 2024
The area surrounding The Academy features a variety of dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.