Hi All,
Back again w/another question regarding small but NICE hotels/B&B's (perhaps "hidden gems")? I will need 3 nights before joining a tour in Windsor. Price range is between $120 to $180./night. Sure would love to hear form anyone who might know about some appropriate places. Thanks in advance. BP
PS - Thanks again to all who responded to my previous post re: affordable airfares to London.
I have stayed several times at the Jesmond Dene on Argyle St. just a couple blocks from Kings Cross and St. Pancras stations. It is more like a B&B. An English breakfast is offered (I think it is extra). No elevator.
You can walk to the British Museum from the hotel in just a few minutes and there are numerous bus/tube/train locations .
In the past if you paid your bill in cash, you got a discount. I don't know if they still offer the discount. I have referred many friends to this hotel and they all loved it.
Here is the link
Jesmond Dene
Most London B and B's and small hotels are "nice". But that word is so subjective. Lodging can range from modern/edgy to traditional or even "quaint" ( dreaded word) but you need to define what you mean. Personally I would consider location above all. After that we consider decor (we prefer modern/minimalist but you may differ) and reputation/recommendations.
And you need to start thinking in £ not $.
Try the New Linden Hotel.
I've heard good things about the Jesmond, mentioned by an ealier member. My recommendation is the Celtic Hotel, near Russell Square station in Bloomsbury. http://www.stmargaretshotel.co.uk/W_e_l_c_o_m_e.html. Don't let the name of the website fool you, they changed their name when they moved a few years ago. Great hotel at a great price.
Thanks to everyone for your responses/comments re: affordable hotels. I'm considering both the Celtic Hotel and Jesmond Dene. Both have received favorable review. Before I make a final decision are there anymore suggestions for similarly priced (approx. 100-125 GSP/night )?THANK YOU!!! BP
Gotta love this forum. Highlights how we all have different expectations and experiences with hotels etc.
We stayed at the Desmond Jene in Argyle Street 10 years ago. It was the worst hotel I have ever stayed in. Perhaps there have been major changes and upgrades during this time. It was like living in a submarine. I had to climb across the bed to get to my side. When sitting on the toilet your knees rested against the door, It was dingy, run down, holes in the carpet and dirty. We had paid a deposit for 5 nights. We left after the first night and forfeited our deposit.
I'm in a bit of a quandry. Based upon further research I think the Jesmond Dene, The New Linden and Celtic Hotels may be a little further afield than I would like. What input do you have regarding the Doubletree Hilton/Kensington? The location appears to be better than the other three. I'm all ears for suggestions/comments. Thanks again!!
We have stayed at the Rembrandt Hotel many times and like it for the great location. It is located across from V&A Museum and two blocks from South Kensington Tube station. Harrods is a few blocks down the street. Breakfast is included and it is excellent. Should fit your price range.
You certainly won't find the Celtic far afield. Its literally in the same block as Russell Square station; a very short walk to the British Museum; and an enjoyable short walk to Soho and the West End. We even walked to St Pauls from there (about half an hour).
I loved the lovely St. Erwins hotel! Comfortable beds, very clean, quiet, beautifully decorated, lovely staff, cute little bar with friendly bartenders, in a great location where you can walk to Buckingham Palace, or have a taxi( there are usually one or two there) to take you to further sites like the Tower of London. I highly recommend!
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lonse-st.-ermins-hotel-autograph-collection/
