An Honest Review of London's New Hotel with No Keys and Windowless Rooms
In a new series, Rooms Without Views, travel experts spend the night in windowless hotel rooms to evaluate whether the price justifies sacrificing natural light. Described as claustrophobic, dystopian, and distressing, the trend for windowless accommodations persists. Metro was among the first to visit a newly opened London hotel offering exactly that, providing an exclusive look at this unique lodging experience.
Location and Setting
Tucked away on a quiet residential street in leafy Kensington, The Drey is just a three-minute walk from Earl’s Court station and a bustling high street filled with pubs, shops, and restaurants. The hotel occupies an elegant white townhouse reminiscent of the Georgian era, blending historic charm with modern minimalism. With 125 rooms, including family-sized options for up to six guests, it features four windowless rooms named 'The Burrow' and 'The Nook', designed for those prioritizing sleep over views.
Check-In and Amenities
The facade exudes vintage glamour, but inside, The Drey embraces a no-frills, self-serve approach. Described as 'staff-lite', guests check in online and access both the building and their rooms via a dedicated app, eliminating traditional keys. Instead of a lobby bar or restaurant, vending machines and a Starbucks coffee station are available, though with numerous cafes nearby, these are best reserved for early morning emergencies. Notably, breakfast is not provided, aligning with the hotel's minimalist ethos.
The Room Experience
For this review, I stayed in The Burrow, a double windowless room marketed as ideal for 'people who take sleep seriously'. Priced at £123 per night, it is the cheapest option but not necessarily affordable. The room includes essentials like towels, vegan Gabar toiletries, water bottles, and a coffee machine, though the latter failed to function despite efforts. The shower and toilet are decently sized, larger than an airplane lavatory but not by much. A significant drawback is the sink beside the bed, featuring brushed gold taps that lack flow control, resulting in a sodden floor and highlighting style over substance.
Overall, the space is sufficient for short stays, particularly if you plan to be out exploring all day. It is not designed for extended lounging but excels as a place to rest. I felt cocooned rather than claustrophobic, with a pleasant, consistent temperature that contributed to a genuinely restful sleep, leaving me refreshed and ready for the day.
Additional Features and Local Partnerships
The hotel offers no robes or irons, but guests can purchase a £20 workout 'bundle' containing yoga mats, skipping ropes, and weights—an option that may appeal to fitness enthusiasts. A better alternative is booking classes at nearby aesthetic fitness studios, as The Drey emphasizes collaboration with local businesses. Partnerships provide discounts, such as 20% off reformer pilates at TriYoga, brunch at The King’s Head, and dinner at Afandena, a family-run Lebanese and Egyptian restaurant renowned for its mezze platter. Other partners include Petal Vibes florist and London Cru winery, offering £8 off tickets.
Accessibility and Attractions
Beyond the hotel, it is just two Tube stops to South Kensington's museum hub, home to the V&A, Science Museum, and Natural History Museum, all free to visit. The location ensures easy access to many of London's finest attractions, making it convenient for tourists.
Verdict
There is no faulting the comfort or prime location of The Drey. You will sleep well and wake up well-connected to London's top sights. However, at £123 per night, expectations might include more amenities, such as functional sinks. While the windowless design may not suit everyone, it delivers on its promise of a restful, cocoon-like environment for those focused on sleep during a busy London visit.
