Abode Kingston

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Abode Kingston during a quick work trip to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that just clicks without trying too hard. I drove in from the airport – it’s about a 15-minute jaunt if traffic’s behaving – and pulled up to this unassuming building on Kennedy Street, right in the heart of Kingston. That’s the thing about this suburb; it’s got that laid-back vibe with a bit of buzz, tucked away from the main tourist drag but close enough to everything. I mean, you’re literally a stone’s throw from the Kingston Foreshore, where you can wander along the lake paths or grab a flat white at one of those trendy cafes on Green Square. Parking was a breeze too – they have a secure underground spot, which is gold in Canberra where street parking can be a nightmare during peak hours, like when parliament’s in session and everyone’s scrambling.

Stepping inside, the lobby feels more like a modern apartment block than a stuffy hotel – think clean lines, some local art on the walls (I spotted a print of the Brindabellas that actually made me nostalgic for a hike), and a faint whiff of whatever essential oil they’re diffusing, sort of citrusy and fresh. Check-in was smooth; the staff were chatty but not overbearing, handing over the keycard with tips on nearby eats – they recommended the Brodburger joint down the road, which, let me tell you, lives up to the hype for a late-night feed. My room was a one-bedroom suite, nothing flashy but super functional: a little kitchenette with a proper stove (handy for whipping up brekkie to avoid the overpriced room service), plush bedding that actually let me sleep through the quiet nights – Kingston’s pretty subdued after dark, no blaring horns like in the city center. Oh, and the balcony overlooked a leafy courtyard; I spent a morning there with coffee, listening to the birds and the distant hum of traffic on Wentworth Avenue. It’s not perfect, though – the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times during my Zoom calls, which was annoying for work, and the bathroom could’ve used a bit more counter space for all my toiletries. But hey, for a 4-star spot with an 8.1 rating, it punches above its weight without feeling pretentious.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra – whether for a conference at the Convention Centre (just a 10-minute drive) or to explore the galleries around Lake Burley Griffin – Abode Kingston’s a solid pick. It’s got that home-away-from-home feel that makes longer stays bearable, and at that price point, you won’t feel ripped off. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in autumn when the leaves turn and the area’s even more charming. Just book ahead if it’s cherry blossom season; things get busy with the Floriade crowds.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $185. Double Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $205. Deluxe Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $205. Queen Room – Disability Access with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $247. Queen Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $247. Queen Room with Balcony with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $273. Executive Studio with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Expensive, no parking available and meals available were not quality – Johanna from Australia – 14 July 2025 (8/10)

  Good location, comfortable and toasty warm on a cold night.
  
  What could be improved: There was no parking available and I had to park around the block on the middle of winter with heavy bags as there was no car parking available. I had to lug my suitcase around the block by myself. For a hotel to not have enough parking is ridiculous. I bought one of their frozen meals which was so disgusting. The smell of it heating up made me nauseous. The microwave wasn’t powerful enough to heat it up properly as per the instructions. I had to put it back in 3 times.

• See above. – Patricia from Australia – 13 July 2025 (7/10)

  Location
  
  What could be improved: They use a terrible sweet smelling cleaning product everywhere which gave a bad headache. I had to buy anti histamines and when booking get a balcony room as the windows are sealed so the air con was too hot and stuffy.

• Very good – Stephanie from Australia – 4 July 2025 (8/10)

  What could be improved: The bed wasn’t the most comfortable.

• Very good – Mary from Australia – 30 June 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent accommodation; helpful staff; room well equipped; perfect postition
  
  What could be improved: Evertyhing suited us.

• Great location, lovely staff, clean and comfortable – Margaret from Australia – 25 June 2025 (8/10)

  Property is in an ideal location. Check in process was efficient and staff very hospitable.
  
  What could be improved: The only thing I didn’t like is that I couldn’t open any windows as I like fresh air. But that’s not a major issue. Everything else was great and I have rebooked here.

• Relaxed. private. Room has everything you need in kitchen – Ralston from Australia – 25 June 2025 (8/10)

  Dog friendly. Fab location near restaurants, supermarket and lake burley griffin!
  
  What could be improved: Where was the restaurant? Alcove at front was not inviting.

• Quiet property with convenient secure parking close to Restaurants – Steve from Australia – 23 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great location a good size apartments with kitchens.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Good, reliable bolthole in Kingston. – Cillablack from Australia – 19 June 2025 (8/10)

  The location. Good clean simple rooms.
  
  What could be improved: Some parts are starting to show their age: the bottom of the bathroom door is showing some water damage.

• Excellent location, spacious rooms. – Elizabeth from Australia – 18 June 2025 (8/10)

  Location Location Location!
  Secure undercover parking.
  Spacious rooms.
  
  What could be improved: Beds are a little too soft.
  Downside of the excellent location is the street noise – pack earplugs

• Very good – Cyril from Australia – 15 June 2025 (8/10)

  What could be improved: Lift and garage electricity failed in the first night. Could not get into or out of the garage and had to walk up three flights of stairs.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities