The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Exterior photo The Society's headquarters at 10 Carlton GardensThe Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Exterior photo The photo shows a beautifully arranged breakfast buffet in a bright and airy room. The walls are painted a vibrant turquoise blue, creating a cheerful atmosphere. The ceiling features white coffered panels and is adorned with three large, modern chanThe Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Exterior photo The photo shows a cozy outdoor seating area in a courtyard. The area is enclosed by a brick wall on the left and a lush green ivy-covered wall on the right. 

The seating consists of a large, curved wicker sofa with several light-colored pillows, and
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From157US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury, London, United Kingdom, WC1E6HG
-
Near the British Museum
Great
8.2
8.6
/10
4.4
4.1
/5

Accommodation

The Academy comprises a collection of five Georgian townhouses seamlessly combined into one luxury hotel with 50 bedrooms and suites. Each room and suite displays a contemporary take on townhouse living, designed by award-winning designer Alexandra Champalimaud. The hotel's charming decor pays homage to the rich literary history of the Bloomsbury Set that once inhabited the area.

Dining

The hotel offers diverse dining experiences with a selection of venues that blend the comfort of tradition with modern touches. Guests can enjoy Mr. Ma's Afternoon Tea, which includes a Glass of Prosecco upon arrival. The Alchemy Bar serves bespoke cocktails and a variety of specialty gins in a cozy setting.

Location

Nestled in the centre of Bloomsbury, The Academy enjoys close proximity to key attractions like the British Museum, only a 4-minute walk away, and Covent Garden. The area's rich history is reflected in its grand Georgian architecture and leafy squares. Transport links are easily accessible, with multiple London Underground stations within a 10-minute walk.

Facilities

The Genius Lab at The Academy provides flexible spaces for meetings and private events, accommodating cocktails and canapés. The hotel also offers exclusive use options for complete privacy during gatherings. For relaxation, The Library invites guests to read and reflect in a quiet environment, hosting monthly book club meetings.

Offers

Book direct to receive exclusive benefits, including a complimentary continental breakfast served in The Refectory. Guests can enjoy curated packages such as the Mr. Ma Afternoon Tea experience. Discounts are available for those who book a two-night stay or more, enhancing the overall stay.

Highlights

Location: 4-minute walk to the British Museum

Accommodations: 50-bedroom/suite traditional

Dining: Mr. Ma's Afternoon Tea Experience

Events: Genius Lab for private parties

Library: Space for reading and book clubs

Offers: Complimentary Continental breakfast

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the British Museum for world-class history and free entry.
  • Savor a traditional afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason's tearoom.
  • Explore the vibrant Borough Market for gourmet food stalls.
  • Walk through the hidden Leighton House Museum in Kensington.
  • Catch a show at the National Theatre along the Southbank.
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Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
Bloomsbury Single
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Bloomsbury King Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Bloomsbury Twin
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Townhouse Double
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
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Check Dates & Room Rates

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Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
Facilities: Great
8.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Car park
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Academy offers a delightful culinary experience featuring British cuisine, perfect for those craving authenticity and charm. Guests can savor exquisite light meals and drinks in cozy yet stylish settings, making each dining encounter a memorable highlight of their stay.
The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Restaurant photo The photo shows a cozy and stylish restaurant interior. The walls are painted a vibrant teal blue, with a section featuring raised paneling that adds texture and visual interest. A dark gray fireplace with a white mantelpiece is built into the wall,
The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World London Restaurant photo The interior of the restaurant

The Alchemy

British
Ambiance
A chic bar atmosphere leading to a spacious terrace, complete with heating lamps for added comfort.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes like smoked paprika calamari, four cheese ravioli, and beef lasagne. Enjoy inventive cocktails crafted by mixologist Ilias Chondros, including enticing options like the Tanqueray Bloomsbury Martini.
Reservation
No
Hours vary.

The Refectory

Continental Breakfast
Ambiance
Stylish yet relaxed, ensuring a warm start to the day in a serene setting.
Key Offerings
A complimentary Continental Breakfast per guest, offering a selection of pastries, fruits, and beverages to invigorate mornings.
Reservation
No
Breakfast only.

Afternoon Tea

Traditional Afternoon Tea
Ambiance
Secluded and elegant West End setting, perfect for intimate gatherings and leisurely indulgence.
Key Offerings
Quintessential Afternoon Tea experience, allowing guests to savor delectable pastries and classic sandwiches, accompanied by a fine selection of teas.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary.

The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Location

21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury, London, United Kingdom, WC1E6HG
Map view
21 Gower Street, Bloomsbury, London, United Kingdom, WC1E6HG
Nearby
Hospital
University of London
2000 ft
Restaurants
Olivelli
500 ft
35 Store Street
The Life Goddess
600 ft
29 Store Street
Chettinad Restaurant
1300 ft
16 Percy Street Soho
The College Arms
600 ft
Wc1e 7dh 18 Store Street
Busaba Bloomsbury
900 ft
22 Store Street Bloomsbury
Spaghetti House
1300 ft
Palladium House 1-4 Argyll Street
Mybar Bloomsbury
1100 ft
11-13 Bayley Street
GAIL's Bakery Bloomsbury
1200 ft
11 Bayley Street
Explore London
Explore Bloomsbury
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The British Museum
The British Museum
8 minutes' walk
The British Museum houses a vast collection of world art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden
11 minutes' walk
Covent Garden is known for its vibrant atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and street performances that entertain visitors daily.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square
19 minutes' walk
Trafalgar Square features impressive monuments, including Nelson's Column, and is a cultural hub with art galleries nearby.
National Gallery
National Gallery
20 minutes' walk
The National Gallery hosts an extensive collection of European paintings, offering free admission and unforgettable artistic experiences.
Coram's Fields
8 minutes' walk
Coram's Fields is a park and playground ideal for families, featuring spacious lawns and a petting zoo, perfect for relaxation.
Regent's Canal Cycle Tour
20 minutes' walk
A thrilling cycling tour along Regent's Canal offers scenic views and a unique perspective of London's historic waterways.
Olivelli
Olivelli
2 minutes' walk
Olivelli serves delicious Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere; their homemade pasta and pizza are highly recommended.
Busaba Bloomsbury
Busaba Bloomsbury
4 minutes' walk
Busaba offers contemporary Thai food with a relaxed vibe; signature dishes include Pad Thai and their famous calamari.
The Comedy Store
15 minutes' walk
The Comedy Store hosts various comedy shows, and features well-known talents; an ideal spot for a fun night out.
The Bloomsbury Theatre
5 minutes' walk
The Bloomsbury Theatre presents a diverse range of performances from drama to dance, known for its intimate and inviting setting.
Getting around
City Centre
London18 min  ·  5000 ft
Airports
London City (LCY)23 min  ·  9.3 mi
London Heathrow (LHR)43 min  ·  17.7 mi
Train
Euston railway Station11 min  ·  3000 ft
Underground
Goodge Street tube4 min  ·  1000 ft
Bus
Bus stop6 min  ·  1700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby at GBP 32.50 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
A continental breakfast is served and charges are applicable. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Spanish, Italian
Year renovated:
2012
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
50

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Academy enjoys a great location, making it easy to walk to the British Museum, Covent Garden theatres, and Tottenham Court metro station. Guests appreciate the comfortable and spacious rooms, some of which even feature complimentary water, soda, coffee (Nespresso), and tea. A few guests have mentioned small bathrooms in some of the rooms. The hotel also offers a lovely garden area off the main bar, a library, and 24-hour room service.
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Review score
Based on 1240 verified reviews
8.2/10
Great
84%
Recommend
Location
9.3/10
Staff
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.4/10
Value for money
7.8/10
Pros
Exceptional staff
Shady garden
Clean rooms
Great location
Cons
Loud aircon
Guest reviews
based on 1240 reviews
8.2/10
based on 2491 reviews
8.2/10
Chris from United Kingdom
Couple
Townhouse Double
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 16, 2026
9/10

a very pleasant stay

generous choicesgreat spread
i stayed in a townhouse double. the room included elemis products, that was nice. the continental breakfast had many choices, it was a great spread.
0 Helpful
Jennifer from United States
Couple
Bloomsbury Suite
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 12, 2026
7/10
fantastic locationspacious roomelemis productsflooded roomsmaller roomtiny room
the location was fantastic, near many attractions. the room was lovely and spacious. elemis products were included in the bathroom, which i appreciated.
The room i booked, a bloomsbury suite, was supposedly flooded upon arrival. i was offered a smaller kingsize room instead. this room was up three flights of stairs and quite tiny. It was disappointing.
0 Helpful
Felix from Germany
Single
Bloomsbury King Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:January 03, 2026
9/10
helpful staffbuffet breakfastgreat location
The front desk staff scheduled my taxi to the airport. The buffet breakfast provided good variety. The hotel stands very close to the British Museum plus Covent Garden theatres.
The air conditioning unit was a little noisy at night.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About The Academy - Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
What are the check-in and check-out hours at the hotel?
10 January 2024
Check-in starts at 14:00, and check-out is required by 11:00.
Is it possible to request an extra bed or is there a sofa bed available in the rooms?
22 March 2024
A sofa bed is available, which can accommodate one person under the age of 16.
Can luggage be stored at the hotel if I arrive before check-in or have a late flight?
15 February 2024
Luggage storage is available at the reception for guests arriving before check-in or needing to store their bags after check-out.
If I book a non-refundable rate, can I change the booking dates if necessary?
5 April 2024
Non-refundable bookings can be modified up to 14 days before the scheduled arrival date.
Are there any food options available at the hotel since room service isn't offered?
18 May 2024
Currently, room service is unavailable, but The Alchemy Bar serves drinks daily until 22:30, and the reception team can recommend nearby dining options.
How can airport transfers be arranged, and is there a charge for this service?
20 June 2024
Airport transfers can be arranged through the reception team, and there may be a fee for this service.
Do the rooms in the hotel come equipped with refrigerators?
29 April 2024
Some rooms include a mini fridge, while others do not.
What options are available for guests who follow a vegan diet while dining?
11 July 2024
Vegan breakfast options are available, though the selection may be limited.
Is there an elevator in the hotel for accessing upper floors?
2 August 2024
There is unfortunately no lift available for accessing the upper floors.
How far is The Academy from local attractions like the British Museum and Covent Garden?
15 September 2024
The British Museum is about a 4-minute walk away, while Covent Garden is easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
Is there parking available on-site for guests with vehicles?
3 October 2024
On-site car parking is not available; however, there is a nearby car park known as Bloomsbury Square.

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