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What is Room for Opportunity?

Room for Opportunity is our charity initiative offering free accommodation in central London for eligible youth and school groups who might otherwise face financial barriers to visiting the city. Since launching in 2021, we’ve hosted hundreds of Schools & educational groups, Sea Cadets, Girl Guides, Charities such as The Talent Tap, Children With Cancer, and Good Work.

Who can apply?

We welcome applications from schools and youth groups supporting disadvantaged pupils (e.g. free school meals, SEND, etc.) and charities arranging educational trips or respite for young people, carers, or families, as well as community organisations planning cultural, educational, or enrichment visits.

How many people can we bring?

The hostel has a capacity of up to 50 people including teachers and / or supervisors.

How long can we stay?

A Room for Opportunity stay can be up to 5 nights.

Who can come and stay?

We welcome schools (primary, secondary, college, university) and youth organisations, sports teams, cultural exchange groups, charities, and community groups from age 6 years and upwards.

Who owns the Kensington Gardens Hostel?

Alongside the Lancaster Hall Hotel both are owned by the German YMCA in London, a registered charity that supports community projects for all ages and nationalities.Kensington Gardens Hostel is part of the Lancaster Hall Hotel, with all accommodation accessed through the hotel.

What makes us ideal for school and youth trips?

We are in a central location, about 250 metres from Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. We are a five-minute walk form Paddington Station and Lancaster Gate Tube. Our location is safe and secure, with a 24-hour staffed reception. We offer group-friendly facilities including two large common rooms with kitchen areas, lifts, luggage storage, and free Wi-Fi. Many popular tourist attractions are nearby e.g. Kensington Palace, Natural History Museum, V&A, Science Museum, Notting Hill, and Oxford Street.

What room types do you offer?

The Kensington Gardens Hostel comprises of one single room, nine twin rooms, 6 triple rooms, and four quadruple rooms. All rooms have a washbasin. Bed sheets and towels are provided. There are separate toilets and shower rooms available on each floor. Free Wi-Fi throughout the building.

Do you haveaccessible facilities?

Yes, we have one fully accessible hostel twin room with ensuite bathroom. Please note that this must be booked in advance. There is lift access to all floors, a step-free entrance via the Lancaster Hall Hotel and a further accessible toilet on the ground floor of the hotel.

What CAN we do for you?

We can provide free accommodation and complementary breakfast. We are also happy to assist with additional trip funding based on need and to support with itinerary planning.

What do we NOT cover for you?

We are not able to supervise groups, coordinate safeguarding, or carry out risk assessments.

Can coaches drop off and pick up?

Yes. Craven Terrace is a quiet street suitable for safe loading and unloading.

What are our check-in and check-out times?

You can check into your hostel rooms from 3:30pm. Check-out time is by 10:30am. We can arrange early or late arrivals with advance notice. We will provide you with a luggage room.

Where are we located?

We are located at 35, Craven Terrace, London W2 3EL. We are 250 metres from Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park and a 5-minute walk from Paddington Station (Central, Bakerloo, District, Circle, Elizabeth lines) and Lancaster Gate Tube (Central Line). Nearby bus routes are numbers 7, 23, 27, 36, 94, 148, 205, 274.

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