A Serene Stay At The Franklin London, Knightsbridge

Overlooking Egerton Gardens – especially lovely in spring when the cherry trees are in bloom – and boasting interiors by Anouska Hempel, The Franklin London occupies four restored Victorian townhouses on a tucked-away residential stretch just behind Brompton Road. Part of the Starhotels Collezione portfolio, the property pairs a classic London address with an Italian sensibility, offering a more discreet alternative to the larger hotels nearby, while being a stone’s throw from Harrods, the V&A and Hyde Park.

With just 35 rooms and suites arranged across a Grade II-listed terrace dating back to the 1840s, The Franklin has a comforting and residential feel. Interiors offer Hempel’s signature subdued and calming palette of neutrals with greys, marble and mirrored detailing, incorporating references from Italian palazzi, Art Deco London, and Middle Eastern decorative traditions.

Rooms follow the same look with oak flooring, elegant wrought-iron four-poster beds in some categories and mirrored furniture that reflects the townhouse proportions particularly well. Garden-facing rooms overlook the private lawns of Egerton Gardens, and it’s a very peaceful outlook for this part of Knightsbridge that’s lined with cherry trees this time of the year.

Bathrooms are finished in marble, with either bathtubs or separate rain showers depending on the room type, while details such as beloved British brand Penhaligon’s toiletries, pillow menus and personalised turndown service double down on its British boutique stance. Suites offer additional space for longer stays, with the Presidential Suite offering views directly across the gardens alongside a separate lounge and dressing area. Service remains thoughtful, supported by a dedicated guest experience team and concierge who are able to arrange everything from theatre reservations to neighbourhood running routes

The hotel sits in one of Knightsbridge’s more residential areas, with Harrods a five-minute walk away and the V&A and Brompton Oratory within a similar walk; Hyde Park and the wider South Kensington museum are about 10 minutes away and easily reached for morning strolls or early runs. As General Manager Stefano Squecco explains, ‘As our guest, you’ll find yourself perfectly placed in the very heart of Knightsbridge, with so much of London’s cultural and retail charm just moments away. We’re a stone’s throw from the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum, making it effortless to immerse yourself in world-class exhibitions. For those drawn to a little retail indulgence, Harrods and the elegant boutiques of Sloane Square are both just a short stroll away.’

On site, there’s a Technogym-equipped fitness studio and a residents-only hammam treatment room on the lower ground floor, alongside private spa treatments available on request. The Library and Emerald Parlour provide smaller spaces for reading, meetings or afternoon tea.

The Franklin Restaurant

Dining centres on The Franklin Restaurant, a 30-cover Italian fine dining space led by head chef Roberto Roncolato where the menu takes its cues from Italian tradition while introducing global accents, served in an intimate dining room overlooking Egerton Gardens. As Chef Roberto Roncolato explains, ‘At The Franklin Restaurant, our menu is a reflection of what I call an exploration cuisine, rooted in my Italian heritage but shaped by the global places and flavours I’ve encountered along the way.’ 

As for recommendations, he suggests the beef tartare tacos ‘where the richness of the meat is lifted with pickled red onions and a touch of wasabi for unexpected brightness. Our homemade agnolotti, filled with braised oxtail, brings comfort and depth, balanced by an Amarone reduction and a hint of yuzu. And the roasted stone bass is a dish of harmony, paired with black cabbage, almonds, and an oyster sauce.’

Its Namesake Bar

The Franklin Bar offers a darker mirrored setting for cocktails and lighter dishes, alongside the hotel’s own small-batch house spirits, including Forbidden Garden Gin and Whisper Vodka, distilled in London using locally sourced botanicals. Afternoon tea is currently served as a themed experience inspired by Wicked, alongside sparkling wines.

C&TH Key Notes

– What to eat: Homemade agnolotti with braised oxtail

– The breakfast order: Egg white frittata

– The highlight: Garden-facing rooms overlooking Egerton Gardens, particularly in spring when the cherry trees are in bloom.

– Don’t miss: Whisper Vodka martini 

– Perfect for: Culture vultures wanting museums, galleries and shopping within walking distance.

The Last Word

With its townhouse appeal, garden views and chic aesthetic, The Franklin suits guests looking for a more discreet Knightsbridge base within an easy stroll to museums and shopping. Its peaceful, residential setting, along with its subtle interiors and thoughtful service, reinforce that sense of calm, a rarity to find in central London.

BOOK

Double Superior rooms start from £450 per room, per night | collezione.starhotels.com