The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Exterior photo The Society's headquarters at 10 Carlton GardensThe Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Exterior photo The photo shows a beautifully arranged breakfast buffet in a bright and airy room. The walls are painted a vibrant turquoise blue, creating a cheerful atmosphere. The ceiling features white coffered panels and is adorned with three large, modern chanThe Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Exterior photo The photo shows a cozy outdoor seating area in a courtyard. The area is enclosed by a brick wall on the left and a lush green ivy-covered wall on the right. 

The seating consists of a large, curved wicker sofa with several light-colored pillows, and

THE ACADEMY - SMALL LUXURY HOTELS OF THE WORLD, London

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From$157 /night
Check-in
21Jul
Check-out
22Jul
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Details

21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E6HG
-
Near the British Museum
Great
8.2
8.6
/10
4.4
4.1
/5

5-star boutique hotel in historic Bloomsbury with complimentary gin & tonic on arrival

Arrival & Welcome

The hotel welcomes guests with a complimentary Alkkemist Gin & Tonic upon arrival. The Academy Book Club promotes cultural engagement among guests through curated reading selections and events. Expert-guided tours are available for those seeking a deeper exploration of London's landmarks.

Accommodation

The hotel comprises five beautifully restored Georgian townhouses in the Bloomsbury district. All rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with Elemis toiletries. The property has no lift, and staff assist with luggage to rooms located up narrow staircases.

Dining & Bar

A complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning in The Refectory, with an additional charge for hot options. Bespoke cocktails are available at the Alchemy Bar, set within a cozy lounge overlooking a courtyard garden. The bar also offers an Asian-inspired afternoon tea and a selection of wines and champagnes.

Amenities & Services

The hotel provides generous nanny services and child-friendly features for families traveling with children. The Genius Lab offers a dedicated space for small meetings and events, equipped with business facilities. Guests can use the shared lounge, garden, and terrace, and the hotel is pet-free to ensure a quiet environment.

Location & Exploration

The Academy is located 400 metres from the British Museum, with the Royal Opera House and Covent Garden within walking distance. Euston Station is easily accessible for public transport connections across London. The hotel's Bloomsbury setting places guests near the West End theatres, shops, and cultural sites.

Highlights

Welcome: Complimentary Alkkemist Gin & Tonic on arrival

Culture: The Academy Book Club & expert-guided tours

Rooms: Five restored Georgian townhouses

Dining: Continental breakfast & Alchemy Bar cocktails

Family: Nanny services and child-friendly features

Business: Genius Lab for small meetings

Location: 400 m from British Museum, near Covent Garden

“This boutique property in Bloomsbury comprises five restored Georgian townhouses with uniquely decorated common areas. The literary heritage is reflected in its decor. I think it is perfect for travellers looking for a cultural experience.”
Hotel logo
Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown

Select room type

Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive deals.
  • Bloomsbury Single
    2 persons
    14 sq. feet
    1 Single bed
    Air conditioning
    Heating
  • Bloomsbury King Room
    2 persons
    21 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Heating
  • Bloomsbury Twin
    2 persons
    21 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
    Air conditioning
    Heating
Show all rooms

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location
Facilities: Great
8.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • 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
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Academy offers an exquisite dining experience blending British cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Guests can indulge in everything from a delightful Continental breakfast to sophisticated cocktails and a charming afternoon tea, all within tasteful surroundings that reflect the elegance of the West End.
The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Restaurant photo The photo shows a cozy and stylish restaurant interior. The walls are painted a vibrant teal blue, with a section featuring raised paneling that adds texture and visual interest. A dark gray fireplace with a white mantelpiece is built into the wall,
The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Restaurant photo The interior of the restaurant
The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Restaurant photo The boardroom at the Old Bank Hotel

The Alchemy

British
Ambiance
Stylish yet relaxed, The Alchemy boasts a funky bar atmosphere leading to a spacious terrace with heating lamps, perfect for enjoying drinks in comfort.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include smoked paprika calamari, four cheese ravioli, and hearty beef lasagne, along with a diverse array of craft cocktails such as the Tanqueray Bloomsbury Martini and Midnight Manhattan.
Reservation
Recommended.
Hours vary.

The Refectory

Continental Breakfast
Ambiance
The Refectory is an elegantly appointed space providing a warm and casual backdrop for morning meals, welcoming guests to start the day with ease.
Key Offerings
Guests can enjoy a complimentary Continental breakfast featuring a selection of pastries, fresh fruits, and beverages, designed to refresh and energize.
Reservation
Not needed.
Breakfast only.

Afternoon Tea

Traditional Afternoon Tea
Ambiance
Enjoy this quintessential experience in a secluded, elegant West End setting, perfect for leisurely afternoons and intimate gatherings.
Key Offerings
A delightful selection of teas, freshly baked scones, and beautifully crafted pastries awaits, offering a taste of comfort and tradition.
Reservation
Recommended.
Hours vary.

Location

21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E6HG
Explore London
Local Highlights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
The British Museum
The British Museum
8 minutes' walk
Collection of art and antiquities, featuring the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Free admission with guided tours available.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden
11 minutes' walk
Lively market area known for shops, restaurants, and street performances. Ideal for leisurely strolls and unique finds.
National Gallery
National Gallery
20 minutes' walk
Home to Western European paintings, including Van Gogh and Da Vinci. Free entry, with special exhibitions throughout the year.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square
19 minutes' walk
Famous public square featuring Nelson's Column, the National Gallery, and vibrant events; a hub of London's cultural life.
Yoga at The Place
12 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga classes offered close by, ideal for stress relief. Pre-booking is recommended for classes.
Cycle Tour of London
15 minutes' ride
Guided cycling tours showcasing London's iconic landmarks, perfect for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers. Rentals available.
Olivelli
2 minutes' walk
Italian trattoria with a cozy atmosphere, offering homemade pasta and classic dishes. Known for friendly service.
Chettinad Restaurant
5 minutes' walk
Authentic South Indian cuisine featuring spices and flavors. Great vegetarian options and family-friendly atmosphere.
Busaba Bloomsbury
4 minutes' walk
Thai eatery known for vibrant dishes and communal dining. Signature plates include Pad Thai and Green Curry.
The College Arms
3 minutes' walk
Charming pub with a relaxed vibe, offering local ales and quiz nights. Great for unwinding after a day out.
Royal Opera House
15 minutes' walk
Prestigious venue hosting world-class opera and ballet performances. Book in advance for popular shows.
Getting around <br />
  • City Centre
    London 18 min  ·  5000 ft
  • Airports
    London City (LCY) 23 min  ·  9.3 mi
    London Heathrow (LHR) 43 min  ·  17.7 mi
  • Train
    Euston railway Station 11 min  ·  3000 ft
  • Underground
    Goodge Street tube 4 min  ·  1000 ft
  • Bus
    Bus stop 6 min  ·  1700 ft
Unlock Exclusive Early Booking Rates
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Check Rates
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 true.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel 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

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Academy is a very nice boutique hotel conveniently located in the Bloomsbury area, near the British Museum and within walking distance of many attractions, making it easy to explore central London. Guests often appreciate the comfortable, clean rooms and delicious breakfast featuring fresh pastries. The hotel also features a relaxing garden and a restaurant and bar on site, but some guests have noted that some rooms can be small.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 1330 verified reviews
8.2 /10
Great
83 %
Recommend
Location
9.3/10
Staff
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.3/10
Value for money
7.8/10
Pros
Professional staff
Quiet rooms
Lovely building
Cons
Limited breakfast
Guest reviews
based on 1330 reviews
8.2/10
based on 2458 reviews
8.2/10
Jackson from Canada
Couple
Bloomsbury King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 29, 2025
6/10

Acceptable Stay with Noticeable Issues

small bathroom no elevator
My room was quite small. The bathroom lacked sufficient space. the absence of an elevator posed an inconvenience given my room's location on a high floor.
0 Helpful
rowan from united kingdom
Single
townhouse double
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: December 19, 2025
8.5/10

central location, lovely decor

unique decor elemis products friendly reception
the townhouse double room was lovely with unique decor. elemis products were available in the room. i appreciated the seamless check-in process, done by the friendly reception team. the outside courtyard garden was a lovely surprise.
The continental breakfast did not include hot options. These incurred an extra charge.
Dining
8/10
The breakfast buffet included a selection of fresh fruits and cheeses. hot breakfast items like eggs required an additional fee. This detail was unexpected. the buffet did not offer hot options.
Location
9/10
The hotel has proximity to the vibrant theater district. it allowed easy access to many attractions. the british museum is also nearby. Oxford street is within walking distance.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Connor from Ireland
Single
Townhouse Double
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 12, 2025
7/10

Satisfactory experience

helpful staff lovely garden wrapped book slow check-in overpowering air freshener damp smell
The staff were very helpful. The hotel has a lovely garden area off the main bar. It was perfect to relax in after a day exploring. The library is also a nice touch with mystery wrapped books.
The check-in process was slow. I arrived after the stated check-in time. There was a lot of silence while the receptionist tapped at the computer. I could smell a strong air freshener in my room, used to mask a damp smell, the room cost over £350 for one night.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
What are the closest attractions to The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Nearby attractions include the British Museum (0.5 km), Dominion Theatre (1 km), and Leicester Square Underground Station (2 km).
What dining options does The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World offer?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant serving British cuisine and a bar for drinks.
Which room amenities are available at The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a kettle, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
What languages are spoken by the staff at The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Staff at the hotel speak English, Spanish, and Italian.
Is breakfast included at The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
A complimentary continental breakfast is served in The Refectory.
Does The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World provide airport transportation?
The hotel offers a paid airport shuttle service.
What business services are available at The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
The hotel offers a business center and five meeting rooms.
How far is The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World from London City Airport?
The hotel is 15 km from London City Airport.
What recreational activities can guests engage in at The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World?
Guests can enjoy live music performances and happy hour at the hotel.
What is the distance from The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World to Kings Cross Station?
Kings Cross Station is within a 20-minute walk from the hotel.

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