I’ve stayed in 21 hotels so far in 2026 — this one had my favourite feature

From castles to riads, rural retreats to city bolt holes, I’ve stayed in 21 hotels around the world this year.

And while some had Michelin-starred restaurants and underground spas, there’s one that offers a perk that stands out from the rest — right here in the UK.

At Kaya Great Northern Hotel, located inside King’s Cross Station, each floor has its own pantry.

I don’t mean a sad corner with bottled water and tea bags. I’m talking a proper kitchen stocked with tea, coffee and freshly baked treats.

I know what you’re thinking, a pantry isn’t exactly glamorous – but it’s basics like this that make a difference to a hotel, more so, in my opinion, than pillow menus and elaborate artwork.

Besides, decent tea-making facilities are a rarity, even in the UK. And when you’re far from loved ones, or staying for more than a few nights, it’s home comforts like this that you appreciate.

Besides, there was more than a well-stocked pantry to impress me at Kaya Great Northern Hotel.

First impressions

Londoners will have walked past the entrance to this place countless times.

The hotel is inside King’s Cross Station (by the taxi rank), just 25 metres from the Eurostar terminal in St Pancras.

A Grade II listed building, it’s the oldest railway hotel in London, having first opened back in 1854. It’s designed by Lewis Cubitt, the same engineer behind King’s Cross and London Bridge stations.

Today, the area around the station can be a little dicey at night, but a few safety contingencies are in place.

The doors lock after 10.30pm and are only accessible via key card. Each floor also has a locked door that you’ll need your card for.

Plus, at check-in, the staff didn’t read my room number aloud—a habit women’s safety campaigners are urging more hotels to adopt.

If it’s convenience you’re after, there’s no better location. If you want to be in the heart of vibrant London – or somewhere more scenic – you might want to consider other options.

What are the rooms like?

There are 88 soundproofed rooms across four categories, starting with Couchette, a nod to the classic railway sleeper. At 14sqm, it’s tight, but still fits a double bed and a bathroom with a walk-in shower.

At the top end of the scale is the Victorian (20sqm), where I stayed. It’s still on the smaller side, but typical of this part of London.

A fair amount of space is devoted to the bathroom, which is always fine by me.

I was a little disappointed, however, that toothpaste wasn’t provided (why isn’t that a thing?!) but a few amenities (cotton pads, a shower cap and bespoke toiletries) were stocked in the room.

There’s a full length-mirror (tick), a small vanity area (with a hairdryer and steamer in every room) and enough space for a sofa and large bed – created by Hypnos, the same company that has had a Royal Warrant to make beds for the Royals since the 1920s.

Room prices start at £300 for a Couchette, including breakfast.

What about the food?

RAILS is Kaya Northern’s main restaurant, on the first floor.

On Fridays, a jazz musician serenades diners from 6pm to 8pm. On the night I ate, singer Jasmine Oakley performed — her silky-smooth tones added a chic vibe to the evening.

Inside RAILS, where breakfast is also served (included within the room rate), you feel world’s away from the buzz of London.

That’s a huge plus for some (especially first thing in the morning), but on a sunny Friday night, it felt a little like the TGIF vibes were happening elsewhere. It would be perfect on a dark winter evening, though.

The menu is elevated European cuisine, and RAILS serves both hotel guests and walk-ins. I went for lamb croquettes, followed by moules mariniere (and chips, of course). I’d happily eat both again.

Finally, Kaya Great Northern has the GNH Bar & Terrace, on the ground floor, so you’re right outside the station. It’s always busy — a handy meeting point for travellers, hotel guests and locals alike.

They have a live DJ every Saturday from 3pm to 8pm, and an extensive cocktail menu.

Any other amenities?

There is no gym or swimming pool at the hotel, but the hotel partners with local gym, Bloomsbury Fitness Centre, a five-minute walk around the corner.

Guests get complimentary access to the full range of facilities, including classes. Passes are available at the front desk.

Honest verdict

The Kaya Great Northern is a luxury hotel made simple.

There’s no fuss: you won’t find a bubble bath menu, or a spa with high-end treatments.

But what you do get are the imporant touches. Soundproofed windows, carpeted hallways and of course, a pantry on every floor.

If you want a taste of ultimate never-lift-a-finger luxury, this isn’t exactly it, but if you want a bougie place to stay before a long train journey, there’s nowhere better.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk

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