Despite being found on the bustling Notting Hill Gate, there's something instantly soothing about this apartment on the third floor of a period building. It might be the stark white walls and minimalist kitchen in the same shade, or the velvet furnishings and two large windows in the living space that are generous with the natural light. It might even be the bathroom with both subtle lighting and a large tub complete with an inbuilt TV for those extra long soaks. Whatever the reason, you're sure to be grateful for the feeling of calm after a long day of getting acquainted with the UK's capital — which is pleasingly easy to do around here. Holland Park and its manicured gardens can be reached in only five minutes on foot, as can the famous Portobello Road with its vintage emporiums and cute cafes.

Home truths:
*There's no private car parking space, but Notting Hill Gate underground station is only three minutes' walk away
*Although the home is spread across one level, there's no lift in the building so it might not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility
*There's no desk but there's a laptop-friendly workspace on the kitchen table
*There's a Caribbean restaurant and bar on the ground floor that shuts at 11pm on weekdays and midnight on Saturdays