Mason & Fifth: Live Like A Londoner At This New Primrose Hill Guesthouse

Daniella Laxton checks into Mason & Fifth’s newest outpost, a characterful boutique guesthouse in Primrose Hill designed to offer a taste of luxury London living – at surprisingly affordable rates. 

Review: Mason & Fifth, Primrose Hill

STAY

Following the success of its original Bermondsey building which opened in 2020, Mason & Fifth’s latest living quarters spans four regency townhouses in Primrose Hill, one of the city’s most vibrant and upmarket areas. Formed of 61 private studios, the guesthouse is designed as a ‘home-from-home’ for anyone looking to live in or explore the buzzy local area; a boutique hotel welcoming both short and long-stay accommodation, but with more flair (and less fuss) than your average rental. 

For example, every studio comes with its very own fully-equipped kitchen, with the added luxury of a coffee machine, plus Caravan biodegradable coffee pods and Pukka tea. You’ll also find a waterfall shower with eco-friendly amenities, a comfy bed with natural linen, plenty of storage space, and a smart TV. Plus, housekeeping and use of the laundry room is included – ideal for long-stay residents. 

Designed by the award-winning architects at Red Deer, the former townhouses have been carefully restored and consciously designed to meticulous detail. Contemporary but with bundles of character, visualise pastel shades with pops of colour, exposed brick walls and quirky hangings.

There are five studio categories ranging from cosy ‘Classic’ to two-storey ‘Mezzanine’. For a little more luxury, the ‘Best in House’ studios offer guests more space and additional features such as views overlooking the immaculate garden. On the lower ground floor, you’ll discover a variety of communal spaces that are equally as stylish, including a cosy TV snug, working space, and an open-plan kitchen and dining area. 

DO

Exploring the very best of Primrose Hill is a must – and a simple endeavour when you’re mere footsteps away from the area’s most sought-out spots. This might include a bite at the life-changing It’s Bagels, a pint at the Landsdowne Pub, a browse in the charming Primrose Hill Books, or a wander around Primrose Gardens. There’s also The Cowshed Spa for a little R&R and the Primrose Hill Farmers Market which takes place every Saturday. NW1 is literally your oyster. 

A little further afield (a 10-minute walk) is Camden, or an additional five will get you to Chalk Hill. Prefer to pedal your way around? Hop on a Mason & Fifth bike and ride your way through the area’s gorgeous green spaces.

Whilst there’s plenty to discover outside of the guesthouse walls, the Mason & Fifth team has also curated a programme of events which welcome guests to interact and make use of the facilities, from ‘Wine Down Fridays’ (pretty self-explanatory) to the ‘Your Pace or Mine’ run club to guided yoga sessions in the sunlit pavilion.

EAT

You’re never short of something delicious in Primrose Hill. Highlights include brunch at Greenery Hill, tasty bakes at Primrose Hill Bakery, or make reservations at Odette’s for a slap-dash Michelin star meal without all the unnecessary pomp. Foodies will love a visit to Ben’s, a one-stop-shop for fresh and organic fruit and veg, plus gourmet snacks that you might not find elsewhere. 

As for breakfast, this can be enjoyed in the Mason & Fifth guest kitchen where the ‘help yourself’ buffet includes a selection of locally-sourced delights, from fresh bread to granola and yoghurt. 

THE FINAL WORD

Branded as spaces that ‘nourish us as individuals, whilst still making meaningful connections with our neighbours’, Mason & Fifth offers a fresh take on London living. The guesthouse may consist of individual studios, but, like its Primrose Hill location, there is a real sense of community here. Stay for the night, a week, or call it home – you’ll be delighted that you did. 

BOOK IT

Room rates start at £150. mason-fifth.com