Am a 70 yr old woman traveling alone to london, although I was there years ago, and am looking for advice on a quaint, cozy b & b that would not be too $. I am going alone to see the places I would like and also perhaps to rent a bike and participate in some walking tours with others. Do you have any advice? Thank you Sandy Cook
Posted by
Reston, VA, USA
810 posts
I highly recommend two B&B networks - At Home in London and London Home to Home. Each lists a number of homes all over London on their websites. You can look them over and choose what seems most appealing or just contact the network with your request. We stayed in Chiswick the first time and near Gloucester Rd tube stop the second trip. Have a great time!
Posted by
Land of La
9261 posts
Although neither a traditional B & B I would check these small hotels out. The first, http://vancouverstudios.co.uk/en/home
is where I often stay. Though not 70 I was born when Truman was in office. I like staying here because of the vibrant neighborhood, Bayswater. I like the staff, the tariff, and the comfort of the rooms. Each room is en suite and have fully equipped kitchens. All have been updated and now have flat screen TVs. I believe they now own a second building which are apartments. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are close and an easy walk. You'll also find rental bikes there.
http://www.royalparks.org.uk/__documents/the-royal-parks/cycling-in-the-royal-parks/cycle-hire-stations-hyde-ken.pdf
Friends who travel often to London for business have recommended this place, http://www.harthouse.co.uk. I've not stayed there but Tripadvisor reviews seem positive.
www.walks.com is a great way to meet people and enjoy wonderful and informative walks around London.
Enjoy your visit.
Posted by
San Diego
1540 posts
I would take a look at AirBnB - they have some nice places at good prices in a variety of areas.
I have stayed at the Jesmond Dene near Kings Cross station - but it appears their prices have gone up in the past few years.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks so much for your advice....have gone on escorted tours before, but do not like being on a restricted schedule and having to go where the tour guides suggest. They're helpful and being w a group is nice, but I think I'd do better on my own and meeting folks on walks etc. the Vancouver b & b seems quite nice...will have to decide....Thanks again...any new ideas, let me know. Sandy
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
I have often stayed at the (popular, well-known) Vicarage Hotel near Kensington High Street. They have some single rooms on the fifth floor, no elevator, Wi-Fi on lower floors, shared bath in the hall, breakfast included for 65 pounds (or 110 with private bath). It is a lot of stairs, and I did miss having Wi-Fi access in my room the last time I stayed.
Posted by
Tempe, AZ, USA
1266 posts
SJ - The Falcon Hotel is 69 gbp per night for a single. It is located very near Paddington Station. Check them out at www.falcon-hotel.com.