The Selwyn is located in Richmond upon Thames, a place regularly hailed as one of Britain’s best spots, and now buoyed by the worldwide success of the Ted Lasso series. Richmond upon Thames is a gem of a place to visit in London. It’s remarkably well-connected, with trains and buses out into the green pastures of Surrey and beyond, as well as a 20-minute express into Waterloo station.
This beautiful town boasts both a Richmond Park (a Royal Park, famed for its deer) and a gorgeous riverside perfect for strolling, cycling, or simply soaking up the sun and people-watching.
Housed in a prepossessing Victorian townhouse close to the town centre, The Selwyn offers a glimpse of another world. Wisteria drapes the facade, and once inside, you’ll find an ornate lobby, curated art, and world travel-inspired interiors. I loved the art deco influences and plush furnishings. Check-in is smooth, and staff are attentive and helpful. The real bonus point is you have the room until 12 noon. This small per feels like such a luxury now when many hotels opt to squeeze the duration of stay with increasingly later check-in times and earlier check-out times.
Who for
Travellers who want their hotel to be part of the experience rather than just a place to sleep. It;s popular with couples and young families searching for a neighbourhood stay rather than central London.
There are also plenty of business travellers and guests who often use The Paisley Room, an opulent and beautifully lit dining area that transforms into a workspace.
Accommodation
Selwyn bedroom
The Selwyn has 50 bedrooms offering a range of options: Cabin, Classic, Selwyn and Family. Each room has flat‑screen television, complimentary WiFi, tea and coffee-making facilities, and eco‑certified bath amenities.
The Cabin and Classic rooms are cosy so for those travelling with a lot of luggage, or who prefer to spread out, the larger categories may suit better.
We stayed in a Family Room, which has two double beds and works fine for parents with younger children, but those with kids aged seven and older would benefit from two rooms instead.
Food & Drink
The Paisley restaurant, Selwyn hotel
Breakfast is served in The Paisley Room, which I just loved for its beautiful bay windows and high ceilings. The breakfast (and weekend brunch) are a real selling point, as it combines a light continental buffer with a la carte options such as such as the delicious organic smashed avocado on sourdough, more-ish fluffy pancakes with ricotta, or the foodie favourite – French omelette (fillings include cheese, mushrooms, ham or salami). The Green Goddess and Yellow De-tox juices are excellent.
On weekends The Social Blend opens from 11 am to 2 pm for brunch or a light bite or coffee and is hugely popular with locals and tourists alike. The bar menu is modest but high in quality, with good wine and drink choices.
Facilities
The hotel offers private parking though spaces are limited it is a rare perk in this part of London. There is no gym or spa but Richmond town is just a few minutes’ walk with a collection of
wellness and fitness choices, and of course, the riverside offers boating, kayaking, cycling and an array of walks. Free wifi is available throughout the property.
How much
Rooms start from around £150 per night for basic categories in low season, rising to more than £350 during peak times. Parking charges may apply. Breakfast is an optional inclusion and will be dependent on the room rate. You can opt to pay for it separately. CHECK AVAILABILITY
What’s Nearby?
Everything! The hotel is brilliantly located for all the joys of Richmond town and riverside – cafes, boutiques, pubs, restaurants, and the regular Ted Lasso tours that take you through key moments from the series. Richmond Hill and Richmond Park are a short stroll away and Kew Gardens can be reached by bus or by tube.
Richmond Train Station is nearby and with it access to the fast trains into Central London.