Inside: The Franklin
Nestled within the lush serenity of the private Egerton Gardens, The Franklin exudes the warmth of a cherished home while offering the immaculate service of an elite luxury hotel. Situated in an exquisite Victorian edifice, this hotel showcases the moody and sleek interiors designed by the illustrious Anouska Hempel, a celebrated figure among Architectural Digest's Top 100 World Designers and Architects.
About
Located in the very heart of Knightsbridge, The Franklin London - Starhotels Collezione epitomizes the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication. Its resplendent interiors and hallmark Italian hospitality have earned it a distinguished reputation as one of London’s premier 5-star hotels. The Starhotels Collezione also boasts two other magnificent properties in London: The Gore and The Pelham. Each hotel, though distinctly unique in its aesthetic, embodies its own brand of elegance and charm. Despite The Franklin’s proximity to iconic landmarks like the Victoria and Albert Museum and Harrods, it remains a secluded 'hidden gem,' offering an oasis of tranquillity amid the bustling city.
Style
The Franklin seamlessly blends the timeless elegance of four classic early Victorian buildings into a singularly luxurious boutique hotel experience. Upon entering through the handmade crystal doors, guests are greeted by an ambiance of refined sophistication, accentuated by a state-of-the-art lighting system. The front-facing rooms provide picturesque views of the historic Brompton Oratory, while the rear rooms overlook the serene lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and towering plane trees of Egerton Gardens. Many rooms boast opulent four-poster beds with mirrored posts, complemented by exquisite furnishings, including oak flooring, framed art, and plush linens. The lavish marble bathrooms come equipped with complimentary Penhaligon toiletries. The hotel also features exclusive amenities such as a resident-only Hammam treatment room, a modern fitness center, and a cozy, well-stocked library.
Rooms:
Opt for one of the magnificent Garden Suites, where French doors open to reveal enchanting gardens below. Here, the charm of an English residence converges with the enchanting allure of Italian design, creating a distinctive and original style that has redefined The Franklin as one of the most outstanding boutique hotels in London. The common areas are adorned with luxurious Italian velvets and silks, exclusive grey-toned furnishings, and sophisticated decorative pieces. Each of the 35 spacious rooms and suites is a paragon of elegance and style. Flooded with natural light and tastefully decorated, they promise to meet even the most exacting standards of comfort. Most rooms offer stunning views of Knightsbridge or the verdant Egerton Gardens. The interiors are contemporary and stylish, featuring creams and grays, four-poster beds, oak floors, and botanical prints on the walls. The bathrooms are stocked with ample Penhaligon's products and fluffy robes, ensuring a pampered stay.
Food & Drink:
The Franklin Restaurant provides an exceptional gastronomic experience curated by Michelin-starred Chef Alfredo Russo. The Franklin Bar, with its Gatsby-esque allure, is the perfect spot to enjoy a Martini cocktail or a glass of Champagne. The hotel prides itself on offering an unparalleled level of personalized service, featuring Les Clefs d'Or Concierges, 24-hour room service, and a dedicated team committed to organizing unforgettable experiences for its guests.
Culture Fix:
The Franklin offers an atmosphere that feels more like a warm and inviting private home than a traditional hotel, blending the coziness of an English country house with the grandeur of an Italian Palazzo. The setting, however, is quintessentially English, situated in the cultured district of Kensington. With some of London’s finest attractions, such as the V&A, Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum, all within a 10-minute walk, guests are ideally placed to explore the city's rich cultural offerings. The Franklin excels in its purpose as a discreet yet luxurious hotel in a prestigious residential district.
Top tip: Currently, The Franklin is offering an exquisite Haute Couture themed afternoon tea in collaboration with the V&A, including tickets to temporary exhibitions when the afternoon tea is booked.
The Franklin London is not just a hotel; it is a destination where English charm meets Italian sophistication, providing an unparalleled experience of luxury, comfort, and cultural richness.
Reservations here: https://collezione.starhotels.com/en/our-hotels/the-franklin-london/