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Accommodation in central London has always been expensive and most rooms for hire are small by international standards. That said, at most prices standards have improved dramatically in recent years. Fierce competition has meant that hostels have cleaned up their act and even the smartest hotels have been forced to do deals, especially during the quieter months (January to March, October and November). A wave of designer hotels opened in the city in the late 1980s and 90s and most of the famous and luxurious older names felt they needed to spruce themselves up as a result. They’re usually cheaper at weekends. London’s grandest hotels are almost all in Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Belgravia, with a sprinkling east towards the City. The most central areas with the largest selection of less expensive rooms – either in Hotels or B&Bs – are on the fringes of these districts, in Victoria, Earl’s Court, Bayswater and Bloomsbury. Many are cheaper at weekends and most mid-range hotels include breakfast in the price, although it’s worth checking.
A room in these districts is likely to cost between £50 and £70 per person per night. Try the seven YHA London hostels, well spread out around the city for anoything cheaper. All are open 24 hours and charge between £20 and £24 a night. Some even have rooms with en suite facilities. Other hostels can be found in Bloomsbury and Bankside. Also check out the halls of residence of various London University colleges, where student rooms are let during vacations. Book well ahead, especially for the youth hostels and other budget options, but also keep an eye out for last-minute offers.
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