Editorial take
Who should book The William?
If this is your first New York trip, shortlist The William for a practical reason: Couples, quiet stays, suite space, repeat visitors. The name, star rating and lobby photos matter, but the real test is whether the location helps your days feel easier.
It is less compelling if you want hotel facilities, a restaurant on site or a lively location. Before booking from the UK, compare the final price after taxes and property fees, check the exact room setup and make sure your airport arrival route is not needlessly awkward.
Location and map
Where is The William?
East 39th Street in Murray Hill is residential and quiet, within walking distance of Grand Central, Bryant Park and the Empire State Building.
Nearby
Grand Central, the Morgan Library, Bryant Park, the Empire State Building and Fifth Avenue.
Closest subway
Grand Central-42 St and 33 St
Hotel facts
What to know before booking.
First-timer context
Why The William might feel special.
What it is known for
- The hotel occupies two interconnected early twentieth-century Beaux Arts brownstones that were a private social club for Williams College graduates in the 1920s.
- It closed when Sonder abruptly shut its operations on 10 November 2025 and filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy three days later.
- Namron Hospitality reopened it in February 2026, its first New York property, following a renovation by In Situ Design, Lilian B. Interiors and artist William Engel.
New York moments
- The Williams College club history explains the hotel's name and its clubby, residential character.
On screen
- This is a small townhouse hotel rather than a filming location.
Review questions
What travellers keep asking.
Is this hotel still open after Sonder went bust?
Yes. Sonder shut down in November 2025, but Namron Hospitality reopened The William in February 2026 as a 33-suite hotel. Older listings and reviews refer to the previous operator.
Is Murray Hill a good base?
It is quiet and residential, with good walking access to Grand Central, Bryant Park and the Empire State Building. It is not the choice if you want nightlife or Broadway on the doorstep.
Booking checklist
Check these before you reserve.
Total price
Look beyond the nightly rate. Check taxes, destination fees, breakfast and cancellation.
Room layout
For New York, room size, bathroom privacy, bed type and storage can matter more than star rating.
Arrival route
Match the hotel to your airport, luggage and arrival time, especially after an overnight UK flight.
Sources and update notes
Last updated: 17 August 2026. Hotel rates, fees, rules and transport details can change.