Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Accommodation Options and Listings
London accommodation is wonderfully distinctive. There's something comforting about the
peculiarly colored carpets or receiving an oversized pot of tea for breakfast. It's all so, well,
English
. While the streets vibrate with multiculturalism, the interiors of your accommoda-
tion emanate all the stereotypes of the Fair Isle. Beds can be found for £15, but then again,
you could be shelling out a couple of grand for a West London penthouse. Here are the op-
tions, what to expect, and listings for the city.
Rather than detail reams and reams of different hotels, this guide prefers to list only those
that offer great value and come well recommended by both us, and fellow travelers. All Lon-
don accommodation should be booked in advance and remember that prices will go up dur-
ing the Christmas weeks and July - August.
Hostels
The last decade has seen a marked improvement in London's hostel accommodation, with
their reputation of being cheap and cheerful being transposed to being cheap, cheerful, and
actually quite good. Private double rooms are generally okay, so long as you don't mind the
party atmosphere and a little noise. However, they're similarly priced as bed and breakfasts
in the city. Dorms continue to be the most affordable option in the city, with their prices
veering from £11 to £35 a night. If you're not used to the sociable almost in-your-face at-
mosphere of a hostel then London isn't the best place to start. They're crowded and gently
throbbing with an undercurrent of mischief. In short, you'll have fun, but it might not be
peaceful.
•
Clink 261
- Kings Cross,
Central London
: Cramped dorms but great location
and exceptionally friendly staff. Has a nice relaxed and cosmopolitan atmo-
sphere. Dorms from £18.50.
http://www.clinkhostels.com/
•
Generator Hostel London
- Russell Square,
Central London
: A monster of
a hostel for young people who want to party. Hardly the cleanest or most el-
egant, but what an up for it atmosphere!
www.
generatorhostels.com/en/des-
•
Meininger Hyde Park,
Central London
: Clean, professional, and comfort-
able. Doesn't have the atmosphere of other hostels but the location more than
