Accommodation: where to stay during the RGS Explore Weekend?
For attendees seeking accommodation in South Kensington, a variety of options await.
Each year, we welcome explorers and expeditioners from all over the UK and the world to our home in South Kensington. To assist attendees, we have compiled a list of nearby accommodation with easy access to the Society.
Exclusive weekend accommodation
We’ve secured a special rate at Astor Hyde Park Hostel exclusively for RGS Explore Weekend delegates: just £80 for two nights (Friday and Saturday). Located close to the Society, you’ll be staying in shared rooms with fellow RGS Explore Weekend attendees. Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your bunk!
Hostels
Astor Hyde Park Hostel
Distance: 5-minute walk.
Description: a vibrant hostel with free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, and a friendly atmosphere. Ideal for budget travellers and students.
RGS-only bunk rooms available for £80 for the two nights of Friday 31 October and Saturday 1 November 2025 (4-6 people per room). If you would like to be part of the RGS Explore bunk room booking, please email go@rgs.org
SafeStay Kensington Holland Park
Distance: 25-minute walk.
Prices: bunk bed from £18.
Description: offers affordable dormitory and private rooms with free Wi-Fi, a bar, and a garden. It provides a safe, comfortable, and sociable environment ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
Discounted hotels
The following hotels offer discounts to those attending Society events.
Holiday Inn London, Kensington High Street
Wrights Lane, London W8 5SP.
+44 (0)20 7368 4023 or res@hilondonkensington.com
Strathmore Hotel
41 Queen's Gate Gardens, London SW7 5NB.
+44 (0)20 7584 0512 or strathmore@gemhotels.com
Standard Double room c. £130.00 + 20% VAT (£156.00 Inc. VAT) and inclusive of English breakfast per night.
Other hotels
The Montana Hotel
Distance: 16-minute walk.
Prices: Single Room from £85, Twin Room from £126.
Description: Victorian hotel offering cozy rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. With an Indian restaurant onsite.
Other online booking options
There are a large range of other youth hostels, bed and breakfasts, self catering apartments, and hotels are within a one-and-a-half mile radius of the conference venue.
The following further accommodation search options may also be helpful:
Hotel booking websites:
These allow you to search for accommodation by postcode and price range.
