The Columbia in London, England

The Columbia occupies a historic Victorian building with high ceilings, spacious lounges, and an original mechanical lift that still operates. Each guestroom includes a private bathroom with a bath and shower, a flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The property offers views of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens from select rooms, and the décor reflects the hotel's decades of family ownership.

The on-site bar and lounge serves food and drinks throughout the day, with a happy hour offering double gin and tonics for £7. Guests who book directly receive complimentary breakfast benefits, while a full continental breakfast is available for £10 per person. The lounge area provides a space for informal meetings or relaxation after exploring the city.

The hotel sits opposite Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, with Lancaster Gate Tube station a 5-minute walk away. Paddington mainline station is an 11-minute walk, providing direct trains to Heathrow Airport. Marble Arch shops and Oxford Street are less than one mile from the hotel, and a bus stop for routes 94 and 148 is located outside the door.

The Columbia welcomes pets with no extra charge, making it a practical choice for travelers with dogs. Limited free on-site parking is available on a first-come basis, and the hotel sits outside the London congestion charge zone. Staff can assist with luggage storage and offer recommendations for nearby parks and walking routes.

This independent hotel has been run by the same family since 1975, with many staff members providing long-term, personalized service. The building was a favorite of 1980s bands such as The Teardrop Explodes and Frankie Goes to Hollywood, and Noel Gallagher named his first Oasis song after the hotel. The property retains original features like sweeping staircases and a mechanical lift indicator, which add to its character.

Location: Opposite Hyde Park, 5 min walk to Lancaster Gate Tube

Rooms: Victorian architecture with high ceilings & private bathrooms

History: Family-run since 1975, linked to Oasis song 'Columbia'

Pet-Friendly: No extra charge for dogs

Parking: Free on-site parking (limited spaces)

Bar: Happy hour drinks from £7, continental breakfast £10