The hype
Travelers adore the staff and the 2-minute walk to the train, but everyone warns about the stairs and small room sizes.
The California
$150-250/ night
Book this if You need to be on the Eurostar in 15 minutes and want a quirky, clean crash pad that isn't a soulless chain.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location literally 60 seconds from King's Cross St Pancras
- Private outdoor terrace (a rare find in central London)
- Friendly, unpretentious vibe in a converted Georgian townhouse
Quick Take: A charmingly creaky townhouse that trades elevators and air conditioning for unbeatable convenience and character.
Reviewed by @conciergekate: I couldn't believe I found this spot in London! It’s genuinely affordable but doesn't feel cheap at all. The room was spotless, the bed was super comfy, and that rainfall shower was exactly what I needed after exploring the city all day. A total budget win.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'cosy' rooms are often 'matchbox' small, and the lack of AC makes summer nights a sweaty gamble.
- You have an early Eurostar or train to catch
- You prefer independent character over cookie-cutter chains
- You travel light and can handle a few flights of stairs
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Daily service is standard. Most reviews cite rooms as 'scrupulously clean' and 'spotless'.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally good, though some reports of limescale or 'tired' grout in older bathrooms.
- Maintenance: A bit worn around the edges. Expect scuffed paint, creaky floorboards, and the occasional rusty radiator.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality. Clean but not luxurious.
- Odors & scents: Usually fresh, though basement rooms can feel a bit stuffy/damp if not aired out.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Street noise from Belgrove Street (buses, pedestrians)
- Internal creaking floors and hallway conversations
- Open windows in summer (due to lack of AC)
Before you book
Good to know
- Breakfast is often served at the sister hotel next door (The Megaro) rather than on-site.
- Luggage storage is available and usually free/tip-based.
- The 'bar' is more of a quiet lounge/reception area than a nightlife spot.
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for street noise)
- Portable USB fan (the room fan might not be enough in summer)
- Light pajamas (rooms run warm)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Rear-facing rooms for less street noise
- Ground floor rooms if you have heavy bags (no lift)
- Family rooms in the basement (often quieter, but rely on skylights)
Rooms to avoid
- Top floor rooms if you hate stairs (4 flights up)
- Street-facing rooms on lower floors (maximum noise)
- Basement rooms if you are claustrophobic (skylight only)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and would appreciate a rear-facing room away from the street. Since there is no elevator, a lower floor would be ideal.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there an elevator?
No. It is a heritage building with 4 floors and no lift. Staff may help with bags if available, but don't count on it.
Does the hotel have air conditioning?
No. Rooms have central heating for winter and portable fans for summer. It gets hot.
How close is it to the Eurostar?
Incredibly close. You can walk from the hotel lobby to the Eurostar check-in desk in about 3-5 minutes.
Is breakfast included?
Depends on your rate. It's often a buffet served at the partner restaurant next door (Spagnoletti at The Megaro).
Are the rooms really that small?
Yes. 'Small Double' means the bed touches three walls. Pack light.
Is it safe at night?
Yes, King's Cross is very busy and well-lit, though standard big-city precautions apply.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The outdoor terrace is a hidden gem for a quiet evening drink away from the station crowds.
- ✨
Ask for a 'courtyard view' room to cut down on the siren noise from Euston Road.
- ✨
The hotel is actually a collection of four stitched-together townhouses, so the layout is maze-like.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Basement' rooms actually have decent skylights but zero view.
💡The Wi-Fi is surprisingly fast because it's shared with the tech-forward Megaro hotel next door.
💡You might have to walk outside to get breakfast at the sister property.
💡The stairs are narrow and steep—getting a large suitcase up is a genuine workout.
💡There is a vending machine in the lobby if you need a late-night fix without leaving the hotel.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The California is located and what's nearby.