Staying in a bed and breakfast can be a great way to bring down the cost of a stay – and in London, with its sky-high prices, it’s a popular option. It no longer needs to be the less luxurious of accommodation choices. The competition has become so intense that if you choose the right B&B, you can enjoy the little personal touches that you might only associate with a higher end hotel.
So here’s a list of the 7 best bed and breakfasts in London – in our humble opinion, of course. But we think you’ll agree that all of them are pretty special…
1. 40 Winks
If you crave for accommodation that’s somewhat different from the bland, regular normality of hotel chains, then this East London located B&B might be just what you’re looking for. The rooms are all about atmosphere and ambience. And whilst there might not be every gizmo and gadget that you find in 5 star hotels, what this establishment offers is unique and quirky.
There’s a garden for your use, full continental breakfast and within 5 minutes walk there are hundreds of cafes, restaurants and boutique shops. There are two rooms available, both delightfully furnished and have shared use of a stunning, gilded bathroom. Those in the fashion and design industry will adore this accommodation, as will those who enjoy something that bit different.
Rates are from £120 per night, and the rooms can sleep one or two people.
2. Cable Street Inn
This quirky boutique bed and breakfast establishment dates back to 1790. Owned by a documentary filmmaker, the building was fully restored in 2011 to be run as a luxury B&B. The Cable Street Inn is in London’s trendy East End, which offers easy transport links into the very centre of town via the Docklands Light Railway (known locally as the DLR). It’s also less than 1km away from the Tower of London – and a great stroll in the sunshine.
There are three double guest bedrooms, each with private bath or shower rooms. And, as you’d expect from a place run by someone who’s given his life to a creative industry, the rooms are beautifully decorated in a somewhat eclectic mix of antique and modern. Breakfast includes eggs, cereal, yogurts, pastries, fruits and juices, and is taken in the former grand function room.
Rates are from £110 per room per night, with discounts offered for stays of longer than 7 nights.
3. The Lilac Door
No prizes for guessing the colour of the front door of this establishment, the Lilac Door is located in an elegant Edwardian home in the much sought after area of West Dulwich. Each room is tastefully decorated with it’s own ensuite bathroom. You also benefit from five star treatments such as chocolate truffles, white waffle robes, a well-stocked hospitality tray, luxurious toiletries and an ironing service (on request).
Breakfast is a hearty affair, with the traditional British fry up, or alternatively a healthier option of smoked salmon and scramble egg, croissants, artisan breads, a selection of cereals, various fruits, continental meats and cheeses, teas and coffee… The list goes on. Dulwich Village is a 10-minute walk and has a wonderful history dating back to 1811. There are also wonderful eateries, boutique shopping and the Dulwich Picture Gallery. Room rates start from £110 per night for a double room.
4. The White House Bed and Breakfast
The four star, stylish and sophisticated White House Bed and Breakfast is located in one of London’s trendiest neighbourhoods, Fulham, in the South West of the city. It’s an excellent location in which to stay, as it boasts a plethora of eateries, shops and entertainment venues within easy walking distance. It also allows for easy access to all other areas of the city.
Located in an old, Victorian home owned by an Interior designer, there are two rooms on offer here – each beautifully decorated and sleeping two people (one with a double bed, the other with two singles). Both sport private bathrooms and a continental breakfast is served in the morning in the kitchen. Rates per night for two people in a room are £95 for a booking of a minimum of three nights.
5. Keslake Towers
Occupying a great location close to Queen’s Park, Keslake Towers offers superb accommodation, knowledgeable owners and one of the best breakfasts you’re likely to come across. The two double bedrooms are delightfully furnished – expect some extra touches such as bowls of fruit, tea and coffee in your room, books and magazines, fresh flowers… Everything you’d expect from a high brand hotel. One room provides a king size bed, and the other can be altered to a queen size or two singles.
There are separate laundry facilities, bikes to borrow and even an honour bar for your use. And at the end of the street you can catch the famous number 52 bus that will take you through Notting Hill Gate, Kensington, Marble Arch and to Buckingham Palace. Rooms cost from £75 per night with a minimum of 2 nights booking required.
6. Eden Garden
Small, friendly and relaxed, this three room B&B offers great value with prices from £72 per room per night. Located in Chingford, in the North East of London, one of the greatest attractions of Eden Garden is its Scandinavian Spa facilities. Use of this is unlimited for guests, ideal for relaxing after a full day’s sightseeing.
In addition to breakfast, there’s also a fully kitted kitchen should you want to make your own meals at any time of day. A gem of a B&B, and one that’s highly rated on Trip Advisor.
7. Forest Lodge
Forest Lodge is located in Wimbledon (home of tennis fame), in a delightfully peaceful location. In addition to the south facing, sunny bedrooms, this B&B also offers a state of the art indoor heated swimming pool. Wimbledon is a great area, with a multitude of restaurants and shops all within walking distance, and there’s easy transport links into the centre of town.
Prices start from £70 per room per night, including breakfast, and the owners can also offer triple and family rooms.
