Why should I book direct with The Prince William Hotel?

Booking directly on our website, by phone or by email gives you exclusive benefits: our lowest non-refundable rate guaranteed; free cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival on our flexible rate (OTAs require 48 hours, so booking direct gives you an extra 24 hours of flexibility); unlimited free calls to UK landlines and mobiles from your in-room phone; and a complimentary 12pm late check-out. Book at princewilliamhotel.com or call +44 20 7724 7414.

Where is The Prince William Hotel located?

The Prince William Hotel is at 42-44 Gloucester Terrace, Paddington, London W2 3DA. We are a 5-minute walk from Paddington Station (Elizabeth line, Heathrow Express, National Rail) and a 4-minute walk from Lancaster Gate Underground. Hyde Park is less than 5 minutes on foot.

Is breakfast included at The Prince William Hotel?

Breakfast is not automatically included but can be added at great value. Book a Breakfast Inclusive rate when reserving online for just £10 per person per day, or add it on before check-in for the same price. If you pay on the morning it is £15 per person. The continental breakfast buffet is served Monday to Friday 7:30 to 10:00 AM and weekends and bank holidays 8:00 to 10:00 AM.

What time is check-in and check-out at The Prince William Hotel?

Standard check-in is from 3:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM. Early check-in and late check-out are available at £10 per hour, subject to availability. If you need to check in before 12:00 PM, we recommend booking from the night before. Guests who book direct automatically receive a complimentary 12:00 PM late check-out. Complimentary luggage storage is available on arrival and departure day.

Does The Prince William Hotel have a lift?

The Prince William Hotel is a period listed building with steps from the road to the front door. The hotel has a small lift serving most floors but does not have accessible rooms. If you have mobility concerns we strongly recommend contacting us before booking on +44 20 7724 7414 so we can advise honestly on suitability.

Does The Prince William Hotel have air conditioning?

The Prince William is a period-listed 18th-century Victorian building and does not have air conditioning. Rooms are heated by radiators with individual thermostats and fans are available on request at no charge. If air conditioning is important to you, our sister hotels The Blandford in Marylebone and The Edwin in Earl's Court both have air conditioning.

What is a Dark Double room at The Prince William Hotel?

Dark Double rooms are our most affordable double room category. They are compact, fully equipped rooms without a window — ideal for light sleepers or guests who want a quiet, dark space to rest. All other room categories have windows, including lower ground floor rooms.

How do I get from Heathrow Airport to The Prince William Hotel?

The fastest option: Heathrow Express direct to Paddington Station in just 15 minutes, then a 5-minute walk to the hotel. Total journey under 25 minutes. Budget option: Elizabeth line direct to Paddington in approximately 35 minutes. Both depart from all Heathrow terminals.

How far is The Prince William Hotel from Hyde Park?

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are less than 5 minutes walk from the hotel. The Italian Gardens are 5 minutes away and Kensington Palace is approximately a 17-minute walk.

What room amenities does The Prince William Hotel provide?

Every room includes a Nespresso coffee machine with pods, milk and sugar, plus kettle and tea making facilities; luxury Arran Sense of Scotland toiletries; flat-screen Smart TV; laptop-compatible safe; hairdryer; and fast free Wi-Fi. Daily housekeeping is provided between 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM.

Is there parking near The Prince William Hotel?

The hotel has no on-site parking. The nearest option for longer stays is Apcoa Parking near Paddington Station. Some short-term pay-and-display parking is available on Gloucester Terrace and nearby streets. With Paddington Station just 5 minutes away most guests find they do not need a car.

Can I store luggage at The Prince William Hotel before check-in or after check-out?

Yes, complimentary secure luggage storage is available at reception on your arrival and departure day.

What is the cancellation policy at The Prince William Hotel?

Flexible rate: free cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival when booking direct via website, phone, email or in person. When booking via Booking.com or any OTA the cancellation period is 48 hours. Non-refundable rate: cannot be cancelled once booked, available both direct and via OTAs.

Hidden Gems Near Gloucester Terrace: Where the Locals Eat and Drink

While the tourist hotspots of London have their charm, there is something special about discovering the places where the locals actually spend their time. The area surrounding Gloucester Terrace and the Prince William Hotel is a residential sanctuary filled with historic pubs, artisan bakeries, and global flavours that most tourists miss out on.

Here are a few of our favourites…

The Historic Pub Trail

The pub is the heart of any great British community, and our corner of London has some of the finest examples of Victorian drinking establishments still in existence.

The Victoria: Located on Strathearn Place, this is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful pubs in London. Built in 1838, it retains its opulent Victorian interior with a stunning curved bar and cosy alcoves. It is rumoured that Charles Dickens wrote parts of Our Mutual Friend here. Today, it’s the place to go for a perfectly poured pint of Fuller’s and a high-quality Sunday roast.
The Mitre: Tucked away on Craven Terrace, The Mitre is a Grade II listed pub that feels like stepping back into the 1850s. While the ground floor offers a traditional pub atmosphere with etched glass and open fires, the basement hides a “speakeasy” style bar called Old Mary’s, famous for its cocktails and candlelit ambiance.
The Leinster Arms: A favourite for those seeking a quieter pint, this pub on Leinster Terrace is known for its friendly service and classic British “pub grub” in a setting that feels like a local living room.

Artisan Bakeries and Coffee Culture

Forget the generic chains inside the station; the locals head to the smaller shops for their morning caffeine fix.

Gail’s Bakery: Just a short walk away in Paddington Basin, Gail’s is an institution for a reason. Their sourdough is legendary, but it’s their cinnamon buns and seasonal savoury tarts that keep the locals coming back every morning.
Taormina: Located on Craven Road, this small Italian deli and restaurant is a true hidden gem. It feels like a traditional trattoria transported straight from Sicily. Their cannoli and espresso are widely considered the best in the area.
Social Impact Coffee: Located at Merchant Square, this spot doesn’t just serve great lattes; they source sustainable beans from projects that protect the rainforests. It’s a great place to sit by the canal and watch the houseboats go by.

A World of Flavour on Your Doorstep

Bayswater is one of London’s most multicultural neighbourhoods, and that diversity is reflected in the incredible range of independent restaurants nearby.

Halepi: This Greek-Cypriot institution on Leinster Terrace has been family-run since 1966. It has hosted Hollywood stars and world leaders, yet it remains a warm, democratic space where local families share platters of smoky lamb cutlets and grilled octopus.
Flavours of India: While Brick Lane gets the fame, Flavours of India on Gloucester Terrace serves authentic, high-quality dishes in a refined setting. It’s a local favourite for its Butter Chicken and warm garlic naan.
Al Waha: For some of the best Lebanese food in the city, head to Westbourne Grove. Their mezze plates are perfect for sharing after a long day of sightseeing.

The Curious History of “False Fronts”

For a unique local sight, walk to 23 and 24 Leinster Gardens. From the street, they look like two grand Victorian terrace houses just like the others. However, if you look closely, you’ll notice the windows are painted on. These are “False Fronts”, built in the 1860s to hide an open section of the underground railway. They’re a fascinating piece of Victorian engineering, and a perfect hidden gem for your Instagram feed!

Experience London Like a Local

Staying at the Prince William Hotel means you get to enjoy the peace of a residential street while being just steps away from these vibrant local spots. You get the best of both worlds: the convenience of a Zone 1 hotel, and the authentic atmosphere of a neighbourhood that Londoners actually call home.

Ready to explore the hidden side of Paddington? Book your stay at the Prince William Hotel and let our team point you toward our favourite local secrets…